A north-east dog owner has described herself as “astounded” at the public’s generosity after receiving thousands of pounds in donations to treat her sick pet.
Last week, the Press and Journal revealed how Yvonne Lawrie had launched a crowdfunding campaign to help pay her vet bills for Mitch, her 11-year-old collie.
The cherished animal was struck by a mystery illness just before Christmas, which left it unable to use its back legs.
The 29-year-old was told that Mitch could have a form of meningitis or spinal cancer, both of which are potentially life-threatening.
But, after appealing for help to pay the hefty veterinary bills, she has now smashed her fundraising target of £2,000.
Last night, Miss Lawrie said she was still coming to terms with the overwhelming response to her campaign.
She added: “It feels surreal when I look at it on the page and it says £2,000 and I still can’t believe it.
“I am just so grateful to everyone for helping me, it’s just astounding.
“I have been really touched by everyone’s generosity, especially strangers.”
Her dog’s health problems caused additional strain to Miss Lawrie because she has a prosthetic leg and Mitch’s company had assisted her in dealing with the problems this caused.
But now, the canine seems to be on the road to recovery and is able to move around, although not yet strong enough to go for proper walks.
Miss Lawrie hopes the vet will now confirm the dog’s condition was not as severe as first feared.
She said: “When he first got home, all he could do was lie there and wet himself.
“But now he’s much better, he’s still a bit wobbly, but he is managing to jump onto the sofa and I’ve been able to take him out to the garden.
“I think he’s a bit bored just now because he’s not been able to get out on his walks until we go back to the vets.”
