Black Isle animal refuge appeals for cash to help elderly man pay for operation on his dog
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Munlochy Animal Aid is calling for donations to help pay for dental treatment required by a 12-year-old border terrier whose owner cannot afford it.
The 86-year-old owner of dog Ollie approached the pet and wildlife sanctuary run by Iona Nicol MBE this week saying he could not afford the estimated bill of £590 and had been turned away by another charity.
Mrs Nicol said: “The dog’s mouth is very bad. He is needing probably a complete dental and there’s an abscess that’s extremely painful.
“He has gone to the vet and got an estimate, which is usually fairly accurate, as to what it will cost.
“He’s a genuine man and a very nice old chap who just cannot afford to pay that. Border terriers are more-long lived than other breeds, so it should have a lot of happy years ahead of it if we can get the treatment paid for.
“We’ve had a terrific response from the public on social media and I think we’ll more than cover the bill.
“I’m very pleased about that because we’re asked, on average, three or four times a week to help with vet bills.
“It is a huge drain on our resources.
“But if people haven’t got the money and their pet needs attention, what can they do?”
Munlochy Animal Aid’s Facebook page read: “An elderly gentleman has a wee terrier that urgently needs an operation.
“The cost is estimated at £590 and the work is going to be done on Friday.
“We have pledged to cover a large part of this but we are asking if anyone would like to join us in helping this 86-year-old man to get his dog the treatment it needs. He would be most grateful.
“Any help you can give would be much appreciated.”
The appeal has already received a positive response.
Sheena Laughton wrote: “Donated. Canna bear to think of this wee Mannie worrying about how to pay for his wee doggies Op. Please let us know how they both get on.”
Louise Graham said: “Transferred a donation. Anything to help this old man and his dog. Sending get well wishes.”
Lorraine Hume Healy added: Donated hope both get better soon. Old fella can stop worrying, and the dog will be better soon.”
Mrs Nicol promised to keep those who donated and all concerned at the pet’s plight informed about its progress.
She added: “His owner is a lovely man and very grateful for the help he is being given.”
Anyone wanting to donate to help Ollie or Munlochy Animal Aid more generally can use bank details: Munlochy Animal Aid, RBS account number 00736247, sort code 83 23 10.
