A north-east family have launched a massive fundraising drive to ease the suffering of their Newfoundland dog, Big Bill.
The five-year-old pet, who was given a new home by Lonmay couple Vicky and Steve Dalgetty last year, is suffering from torn knee ligaments as well as a hip growth and arthritis in all his legs.
He has already undergone surgery to repair one of his legs and is expected to have a further operation next month.
In total his vet bills could set the Dalgetty family back more than £14,000.
Last night Mrs Dalgetty said Big Bill was part of the family and they were determined to give him the attention he needs.
“The dog has known nothing but pain his whole life,” she said.
“He deserves to spend his last years as pain free as he can.
“When we took Billy on we committed to giving him the care he needs. We would do it for a child so why not our pet. Bill is my daughter Lauren’s best friend and we will not give up on him.”
Soon after the Dalgettys collected Bill from his former owner – who was no longer in a position to care for the large dog – in October, they realised he was in pain.
He was rushed to the vet and diagnosed with a host of ligament, muscle and bone conditions.
However because the diagnosis was made before their newest family member was insured, his veterinary bills are not covered by a pet plan.
Shannon Martin, Mrs Dalgetty’s cousin, is helping drive the fundraising campaign and is arranging a sponsored sky dive and team dog walk.
Last night she said the family were “true dog lovers” who would give Bill the best life possible.
“Vicky absolutely adores her dogs. She has four Newfoundlands and they really are treated like her kids,” she said.
“They have given Bill a forever home and are willing to help him and give him the best last years of his life.
“If the world had more people like them it would be a better place.”
By last night the Dalgettys had raised more than £700 of their £5,000 target through an online donation page.