Romeo is a young dog who was found as a stray. He was quickly seen by a vet as it was obvious something was seriously wrong with his heart and breathing. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) was suspected, which if left untreated, cuts a dog’s life expectancy short.
Fortunately for Romeo, South East Dog Rescue (SEDR) agreed to help him, knowing the costs of treatment if PDA was confirmed would be several thousand pounds. SEDR is a small rescue without big reserves to fall back on when cases like Romeo’s present. They had a lot to consider as like lots of rescues at the moment, they are regularly taking in dogs with complicated welfare needs and expensive medical issues.
They agreed to give Romeo his chance at life and the Royal Veterinary College confirmed PDA. But more than this, Romeo also has aortic stenosis - narrowing of the major heart valve. Romeo’s heart is majorly complicated, and expensive to fix. Without surgery, he will not live.
SEDR were facing perhaps their biggest ever fundraising challenge. To raise almost £5000 for the scan and PDA surgery. After the surgery, a clearer picture on his aortic stenosis would be possible. But future costs are likely.
SEDR launched a fundraising appeal for Romeo’s surgery. Within 24 hours half the money had been raised by supporters. One of whom is also a Schnauzerfest fundraiser and contacted us, ofering to do something to help raise the essential funds to save his life. The charity Trustees agreed to put in place a special £2000 grant to assist SEDR to cover Romeo’s treatment costs.
Should Romeo’s stenosis require surgery and additional expense beyond what SEDR has funds for, Schnauzerfest will ensure Romeo gets what is needed for a healthy future.
“I am blown away by your support, and cannot thank you enough for taking Romeo under your wing. I think what Schnauzerfest does is so inspiring and we are beyond grateful for your continued support. Romeo sends a lot of love too!”
Today Romeo’s PDA surgery went ahead at the RVC. It was complex, taking several hours. He is now recovering and the next few days are critical.
