I volunteer for Angels for Animals Foundation - a volunteer-run charity dedicated to rescuing dogs abroad and in the UK. I am starting this fundraiser to help AFA to raise funds for a very special Golden Retriever to have double hip replacement surgery.

Barney is a 3-4 year-old Golden Retriever. He was one of 6 Golden Retrievers rescued by AFA in spring 2025 from a government 'shelter' where dogs are either left to suffer and die from starvation or disease, or , if they're lucky, are euthanised.

Once in rescue care, it became clear that Barney's rear gait was 'off' and so he was sent for x-rays which, upon consultation with our UK vet support, confirmed he needs a double hip replacement. He has an old injury and both hips are in bad shape. In Turkey, Golden Retrievers are a very popular breed to buy but are abandoned at an alarming rate at all ages across the country. We believe it is likely that Barney was abandoned and hit by a car - this is something we see happen a lot to abandoned dogs there.

From past experience, we know that veterinary care in the UK is far more advanced and reliable than in Turkey. With this in mind, we decided to wait until Barney was in the UK to organise surgery. This way we can ensure he gets only the best care and oversight from us. Barney is now in the UK. He arrived earlier this month, just in time for Christmas! He is currently in a medical foster home where he will stay until he has completed his rehabilitation post surgery. Following this, we will look for a very special home for him.

Having previously been advised that it would cost circa £10,000 to repair one hip, a specialist veterinary team have now quoted us up to £20,000 to replace both hips. This is an enormous cost and, as his rescue team, it is our responsibility to raise this urgently so Barney can finally get the care he deserves. Knowing that this is a huge ask, we are seeking to raise half the amount - £10,000- to at least organise the surgery on his worst (and most painful) hip urgently. Then we will focus on raising money for the other hip.

We have had a particularly bad year with donations (and adoptions). The rescue climate is very tough right now. We need all the help we can get to help Barney. We are grateful for any donation you can give towards his surgery and, if you are not in a position to donate, we would be so grateful for every share to help this campaign reach far and wide and give us the best chance at getting Barney his new hips for Christmas.