Hi, I'm Bruce! I’m a 105lb Bernedoodle living with my parents since January 2020 - I remember because this was when I became head of household.. pretty big responsibility if you ask me! Swimming, camping, playing in the snow, cuddling, road trips, and belly rubs are some of my favorite things. I love being the center of attention so going for walks or to the park is the best! I have so much fun meeting new people and playing with some pretty cool dogs! But lately, I haven't been able to do much physical activity after being diagnosed with bilateral hip dysplasia. If I get too excited, I might hurt myself, so the vet has recommended leash walks and for me to get my hips replaced... Bionic Bruce sounds like a superhero name don't you think?! I’ll let mom and dad fill you in on the details since I know they've been busy doing lots of research so I can live a more comfortable (super) life.
Hi there - thank you in advance for reading this story about Bruce and the journey ahead. After noticing some symptoms in recent months, we brought Bruce in for an exam and received some devastating news that he has bilateral hip dysplasia. Due to his young age, large size, and severity of his disease they recommend Bruce to have a Total Hip Replacement (THR) for both affected hip joints as soon as possible. This surgery is performed on each hip with a recovery period of 2-4 months between operations.
Our options are limited where Bruce can have this operation done in Canada and unfortunately we do not have pet insurance. In Calgary, we were quoted $18k to $20k for both operations. The next closest location is the University of Saskatchewan (6.5h drive). As it is a school, their estimate was $10-12k (not including travel and accommodations for consults, surgeries, and follow up exams), so a bit more cost effective surgery but would require a lot of travelling and other costs. After discussing our dilemma with a family member of ours, she mentioned Go Fund Me, so decided to give it a shot as we are open to try anything to get Bruce the help and support he needs. Our goal is currently set to $6500 so we can get Bruce booked in for his first surgery, first steps to becoming Bionic Bruce! Our first consultation has been completed in Calgary and our second consultation with U of S in Saskatoon is May 31. We hope to find out more then and make our final decision on where he will get the surgery at this time. Thanks again for reading this story, we appreciate and are so grateful for any donations and support - the smallest things can help in the biggest way!
For cute pictures & updates – make sure to follow Bruce’s social media accounts!
Instagram & TikTok: @bigboy.brucey

