THE founder of a rescue service for the world's tallest dog breed has dismissed mounting claims that the "not for profit" organisation is bogus.

Andrew Smith, of Saltburn, who launched TJ Danes Rescue in November, said he had become suicidal after being bombarded with allegations on Facebook, including claims he was failing both Great Dane dogs and their new owners.

The 53-year-old defended his organisation after numerous Great Dane owners contacted The Northern Echo after becoming incensed about the organisation's practices, in particular over allegedly failing to check the suitability of homes for dogs and a lack of transparency over donations.

Rebecca Lightowler, of Wakefield, said she was set to launch legal action against Mr Smith after he handed her a rescued dog that was known to be aggressive, which had pinned her against her kitchen wall soon after she received it.

She said while Mr Smith did immediately remove the animal, he had not assessed its suitability, conducted house checks or provided paperwork.

Mrs Lightowler said Mr Smith returned a few days later with a Great Dane puppy, but urged her not to publicise where it had come from as it could harm other dogs.

Others, who asked not to be named, questioned information given them to Mr Smith about the dogs' former owners, and likened his service to a taxi firm.

They said they were blocked on Facebook when they questioned him.

Mr Smith, known as TJ, said he continued to receive "overwhelming support" from numerous people, but had been repeatedly targeted by a clique of Facebook users confused over how his organisation operated.

He said he had lodged a harassment complaint with Cleveland Police.

"All I want to do now is stop thinking about killing myself and so I can focus on rescuing dogs. I am not making a single penny out of this."

Mr Smith said he had rescued dogs from "horrendous situations", but tried to protect the anonymity of their owners and, despite the allegations, would not stop striving to ensure dogs' happiness.

He said his service differed from other rescue organisations in that he took personal responsibility for the dogs for the rest of their lives and that donations were used to help fund ongoing care, if necessary.

Mr Smith said the organisation had received a total of £8,800 in donations, more than £6,000 of which was spent on fuel to relocate dogs and almost £1,000 on vets' bills.

He disputed claims that he levied adoption fees in excess of £150 to cover his fuel and animals' veterinary costs and said he always assessed the suitability of homes before placing rescued dogs.