Help Denzel Walk Again – Emergency Spinal Care Needed

This morning, March 19, 2025, I woke up to one of my worst nightmares Denzel, my beautiful Blue 6 year old Staff, was completely paralyzed in his back legs. He couldn’t move off my bed, and for anyone who knows Denz, you’ll know how much of a crazy, energetic, full-of-life boy he is. Seeing him like this was absolutely devastating. It’s still unclear how it’s actually happened as he was okay last night but apparently these things can get worse over time and he’s such a boisterous boy.

Denzel isn’t just a dog to me, he’s my little healer. He has been by my side through some of the hardest times in my life, giving me unconditional love, comfort, and joy. I never thought I’d be in a position where I’d have to ask for help, but today, I have no choice.

Denzel’s Diagnosis & Treatment Plan.

After rushing him to the emergency vet, he was diagnosed with a Grade 3 spinal injury, likely caused by a slipped disc and severe spinal bruising. He was then taken to a specialist vet in Hitchin and I was initially given the option for an emergency MRI and surgery, which could give him an 80% chance of walking again. But after a lot of discussion and an hour-long MRI, the vet believes he may have a chance to recover without surgery, provided he’s monitored closely for the next three days in the doggy hospital.

If he remains stable, the plan is to bring him home for 6-8 weeks of strict crate rest while I care for him around the clock. I’ll need to assist him with a special harness to support his back legs and movement, help him go to the toilet, and do everything possible to give him the best chance of walking again. (Fingers tightly crossed! )

The Financial Struggle

I have Petplan insurance, but I’ve just learned that my cover is only £4,000. With the MRI, hospitalisation, and initial rehabilitation already costing £4,500, I am now facing at least £5,500 in costs, not including any unforeseen complications and further Physiotherapy.

(Praying we can stay away from surgery) Unfortunately, I simply don’t have the £1,500 shortfall, and this unexpected expense is adding so much stress to an already difficult time for me.

I have never asked for financial help for myself, only ever for charity, but right now, I’m asking if anyone can spare anything to help me help Denzel. Every single donation, no matter how small, would mean the absolute world to me and would take some of the financial pressure off so I can focus on getting my boy better.

Denzel has always been full of life, love, and a little bit of a nutter and he deserves this chance to recover. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.

Charley xxx