A PUPPY whose vet bills were being crowdfunded has died.

Jax, a 13 week old Spreagle, had been having tests for weeks to try and find out what was wrong with him.

He was struck down by a mystery illness two days after moving in with his new family in Eastleigh.

His new owners maxed out their credit cards, spent their savings, and set up a GoFundMe page to be able to afford the veterinary bills.

Jax passed away on September 18 and specialists are still not completely sure what was wrong with him, but think it may have been Canine Distemper.

Heidi Smith, Jax’ owner, said: “We’re okay, a little bit numb at the moment.

“The kids haven’t lost a pet before, so it’s quite difficult for them.”

“We’re having him cremated, and want him home as soon as possible.”

The family don’t know how much they owe for vet bills but were originally told it could be anything between £3000 and £6000.

As they couldn’t prove that Jax was healthy when they got him, the insurance company has refused to pay out.

The breeder was fully registered and works at a vets. She gave the money paid for Jax, back to help towards bills.

She also wrote a letter stating that when the vet saw the litter, they all appeared fit and healthy.

Heidi has now passed that letter on to the insurance company in the hope that they will reconsider.

The money raised on the GoFundMe page came to £320, and if the insurance money does come through, the family want to donate that money to the animal welfare charity, Dogs Trust.