The much-loved pet of Ros and John Wilson, from Harbury, was hit by a car near Oakley Wood in Warwick. Angus was so stunned that despite his injuries he ran into the woods, leapt over a ditch and travelled some distance on his broken front legs before being found.

Mark Jackson-Taylor, of Avonvale Veterinary Centres, explained that because deerhounds stand about 80cm high their legs are very fragile, like a racehorse, which made the injuries more critical. In fact he didn't hold out much hope when he first saw the 18-month old animal.

He said: "Our emergency ambulance was called to the scene and Angus was rushed to the Warwick surgery. His legs were so badly damaged that I feared I'd have to amputate them.

"But as both legs were affected this would have been very difficult, if not impossible, for Angus.

"Fortunately he was an amazing patient , never once showing aggression, though he must have been in agony."

The hound has had several operations which have involved metal plates and screws being inserted into his bones to hold the breaks together. And after months of pain, he has begun to get back to his old self.

Thanking the vet who refused to give up on Angus - or his legs, John Wilson said: "We're delighted to see him back home with Teasel, our little terrier.

Despite the obvious difference in height they are the best of friends and Angus is back to bouncing all over the place again.

"The staff were so kind and marvellous really. They had to turn and lift him regularly but they took it in their stride.

"We couldn't have wished for better nursing."

Mr Jackson-Taylor added: "We are delighted to finally see Angus doing well. He still has a lot of healing to do but I'm confident he'll be completely back to his old self very soon."

The Wilsons also thank the driver of the car involved in the accident for her help and concern at the time of the incident.