A LUCKY hound is living the life of luxury in a million pound mansion just weeks after escaping death by a whisker.

Eighteen-month-old Holly had been abandoned on the streets in Wales when she was thrown into a dog pound and given days to live.

Hours before she was to be put to sleep, the Chiltern Dog Rescue Centre heard about her fate and decided to help, even though the charity's kennels were full.

The cross-breed has now been given a new home by a multi-millionaire Egyptian diplomat who decided he wanted another dog and took on Holly after visiting the centre.

She will be spending her time between his mansion in Belgravia, London, and the prestigious Elmwood Hotel for Dogs in The Lee, near Chartridge.

John Burton, the owner of the hotel for dogs, said: "Holly has gone from rags to riches.

"She now gets to go into London and stay with him in Belgravia and gets to stay with us when he goes away on business. I bet she doesn't know what has happened to her."

Mr Burton told the diplomat about Holly after he requested another dog to stay at the hotel with his labrador called August.

He added: "She loves running around the mansion. She is such a sweet dog and loves playing with the others. Holly is a lucky girl."

Sara Muncke, office manager for the Chiltern Dog Rescue Centre, in Ashley Green, said: "She is going to be really spoiled.

"I am so pleased she has found a good home. She is so affectionate.

"All the dog walkers used to ask for her."

She added: "She was very lucky to be rehomed.

"So many have to get put down so we try to have as many transferred to us (from Wales) as possible."

If you would like to give a dog a home, then please call the Chiltern Dog Rescue Centre, on 01442 876009.