Family appeal for extra funds to save puppy’s life
A FAMILY has launched an appeal to save their disabled puppy’s life after she was given just two months to live.
Staci Paterson, of Paisley, and partner Paul Lee have set up an urgent Go Fund Me appeal after they were told their 11-week-old puppy would need to undergo £13,000 emergency surgery to treat a rare bone deformity.
Karma, a Bulldog cross, has been given just two months to live after a routine check uncovered she had been born without femoral heads, the highest part of the thigh bone that connects the hip to the back legs.
Ms Paterson’s 16-monthold daughter, Gracie, struggles t o develop relationships with others.
It was hoped Karma would be a lifelong friend after the pair formed an inseparable bond.
She said: “We brought Karma home over a month ago and she has already forged a close bond with my daughter.
“Gracie is undergoing tests for ADHD and autism as she struggles to develop relationships with other people and animals, but Karma and her are glued together.
“If Gracie has a breakdown Karma is always by her side to calm her down.
“We are already devastated, but Gracie would be inconsolable without her. I had hoped they would grow up together.”
The family were thrown a lifeline by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals who referred their case on to Channel 4’s SuperVet, Fitzpatrick Referrals.
The groundbreaking veterinary practice founded by Professor Noel Fitzpatrick offers unique bionic surgery and life saving operations for animals who would otherwise be put to sleep.
Karma has been referred for a bionic hip replacement that would require joints to be specially made for her operation and would cost upwards of £6,500 per hip.
Ms Paterson said: “When we were told Karma would have to be put to sleep we said absolutely not.
“We will do whatever we can to raise the funds for her operation.
“If it means we only raise a fraction of the costs, we will take out a loan. We just can’t let her down.
“We have two months before she grows too large and her back legs will be under too much strain for her to have a good quality of life.”