Help Us Give Hugo the Best Chance at Recovery

Hi everyone,

I never thought I’d be writing this, but I desperately need your help.

This is Hugo, my beautiful 3-year-old French Bulldog—my world, my baby, and the life and soul of my home. His little bunny hops, his quirky ways, and his endless love have brought me so much comfort, especially through my own struggles with anxiety. He’s not just a pet; he’s family.

On Tuesday, March 25th, Hugo started to feel unwell. He went off his food, and I noticed his back legs twitching when he was lying down. He seemed fine when walking, so I assumed it was nothing serious. But at 2 AM, he went outside for a wee and looked a little wobbly on his back legs. By 6:30 AM Wednesday, my worst fear became reality—Hugo had lost all movement in his back legs and was dragging himself across the floor. It was absolutely devastating to see.

I rushed him to the vet, and after an examination, they gave me heartbreaking news: Hugo has Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a serious spinal condition where discs between the vertebrae deteriorate and can compress the spinal cord, causing paralysis.

The vet told me that because Hugo still had deep pain sensation, he had a chance—but he needed urgent specialist care, including an MRI scan and emergency spinal surgery.

We were immediately referred to a specialist spinal center, where they confirmed severe compression between lumbar 3/4 on his spine. They performed surgery last night to relieve the pressure. The vet updated me after 7 PM to say the surgery went well with no complications, but there is swelling and bruising around his spinal cord. The next few days are critical, and we won’t know the full prognosis until they monitor his recovery.

The Road Ahead

Hugo now faces a long and intense rehabilitation process. Recovery from IVDD surgery can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months, and he will need:

✔ A medical sling to help him walk

✔ A secure, comfortable space at home for recovery

✔ Potentially bladder expression assistance as he heals

✔ Ongoing veterinary check-ups and physiotherapy

The cost of his MRI scan and surgery alone started at £7,200, and that’s before considering the months of aftercare he will need. But how can you put a price on your baby’s life?

Why I Need Your Help

Those who know me know I always had pet insurance. But last year, after my insurance company refused to pay out for my cat’s treatment, I made the difficult decision to cancel my policies. Now, with Hugo’s emergency, I am facing this massive financial burden alone.

As a self-employed hair and cosmetics practitioner and travel agent, I also have to take time off work to care for him. Many of my friends and family have encouraged me to start this GoFundMe—so here I am, asking for any support you can give to help me give Hugo the best possible chance at recovery.

Even the smallest donation would mean the world to us. Every little bit adds up, and if you can’t donate, a share would help just as much.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading, supporting, and helping me fight for my boy. Hugo has given me so much love over the past 3 years—now it’s my turn to do everything I can for him.

With love and gratitude,

Leanne & Hugo