Hi, my name is Sharan and I'm trying to raise funds for Binx, our two and a half year old Shihtzu. We need to have some tumours removed from his mouth. These lumps are known as Epulis.

An epulis in dogs are a common, usually benign tumour(s) in the mouth, often on the gums. While not typically life-threatening, they can cause discomfort and interfere with eating or drinking, and some types can be locally invasive. His prescribed treatment involves surgical removal.

The tumours in Binxs mouth have come on suddenly and are growing very quickly, and will only get bigger. He was fussy with his food anyway, typical of his breeds fussy nature. If you know a Shihtzu, you'll know what I mean!

But now, he's in pain when he eats and that's putting him off eating.

If the tumours get any bigger they will start to bleed and cause more discomfort. The more they are irritated, the bigger the tumours will grow.

Binx is an integral part of our life and has been a joy for our family during some really tough years. It's hard to see him struggle. Epulis has a tendancy to become invasive and could require further or ongoing treatment in the future. And our insurance won't cover any of the costs unfortunately.

Binx will need surgery as soon as possible.

Please do donate anything you feel that you are able to. Or if you see this and are not able to donate at this time, please do share with your friends or family so that we can get Binx back to being his usual happy chappy self.

Any help, kind words and sharing of our cause is appreciated.