Hi everyone,

I never thought I’d be writing something like this, but I’m asking for help to give my dog, Shabba, a fighting chance.

Recently, Shabba became suddenly unwell following an unexpected incident involving another dog. While there was no intention for anyone to be hurt, what followed was frightening and completely unexpected. His condition deteriorated quickly, and he began struggling with his mobility, particularly his back legs. It was clear something was very wrong.

As things progressed, Shabba was referred for emergency veterinary care, including a full neurological examination and MRI. Unfortunately, the results brought some devastating and confusing news. The scans showed dark patches at the back of Shabba’s brain, along with inflammation in his neck and the top of his spinal cord. These findings indicate a brain lesion, but at this stage, the exact cause is unknown.

The specialist explained that the results don’t clearly fit with a straightforward injury, tumour, or sudden trauma. The speed at which this appeared doesn’t fully make sense, and there are still many unanswered questions about whether this is related to trauma, inflammation, or another underlying cause. Right now, we are living with a lot of uncertainty.

Watching Shabba go through this has been heartbreaking. He is in pain, confused, and struggling with things that once came so easily — standing, walking, and even getting comfortable. Seeing him like this has been one of the hardest experiences of my life.

Going forward, the focus is on managing inflammation and supporting Shabba as best we can. He is currently on medication, including steroids and anti-inflammatories, to help reduce swelling and keep him comfortable. He is due to have another scan in two weeks to assess how he is responding to treatment and whether the inflammation has improved. Alongside this, we are also exploring holistic and supportive therapies, such as acupuncture and other complementary treatments, to give him every possible chance.

Like many people, I am doing absolutely everything I can, but the cost of emergency veterinary care, diagnostic imaging, medication, follow-up scans, and ongoing treatment is more than I can manage alone. These costs add up very quickly, and I don’t want finances to be the reason Shabba doesn’t get the care he desperately needs.

Shabba is more than a dog — he is family. He has been by my side through some incredibly difficult times, offering constant comfort, loyalty, and love without ever asking for anything in return. I love him more than anything, and all I’m asking for is the chance to help him heal and have the best quality of life possible.

How the Funds Will Be Used

All donations will go directly toward Shabba’s care, including:

Emergency and follow-up veterinary visits

Prescribed medication, including steroids and pain relief

Diagnostic imaging (MRI and follow-up scans)

Neurological and specialist care

Holistic and supportive therapies

Rehabilitation or physiotherapy, if recommended

If we are fortunate enough to exceed the target, any additional funds will go toward Shabba’s ongoing recovery, aftercare, and long-term support.

How You Can Help

Donate, if you’re able — absolutely no amount is too small

Share this page to help reach others

Send kind words or support — it truly means more than you know

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, for sharing, and for supporting us during one of the hardest moments of our lives. Shabba has so much love left to give, and I truly believe he deserves this chance.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Shabba and family