This week, my family and I received the devastating news that our beloved chihuahua, Gus, has thymoma (a rare but treatable form of cancer). We are desperately seeking support to help cover the cost of his surgery and medical care. Unfortunately, our pet insurance will not cover the overwhelming expenses.

The mass was discovered during a routine procedure, and Gus was then referred to an oncology clinician. Fortunately, his thymoma is currently operable and was diagnosed before he begins experiencing serious symptoms, including difficulty breathing. Without surgery, we will be faced with the heart breaking decision to say goodbye to prevent him from suffering. Specialist advice is clear that the best chance to save his life is to remove the tumour as soon as possible, ideally within the next couple of weeks before it grows larger.

Thankfully, Gus’s prognosis with surgery is very good, and this operation would give us many more years together. Emotionally, we kept coming back to one question: “Are we putting him through something unlikely to help, or are we preventing suffering and preserving a good quality of life?” Gus means everything to us, and we can not imagine giving up on him without doing everything we can.

Anyone who has loved a dog or family pet will understand the deep bond and unconditional love they bring into our lives. Gus came into ours with his cheeky personality, clever and funny nature, and endless affection. He brings so much joy, comfort, and happiness to our family, always managing to make even the hardest days feel a little brighter. He truly is our sunshine.

Our mum struggles with her mental health, and Gus has been a constant source of support, and companionship for her. He loyally stays by her side wherever he can and has helped her through some of her most difficult moments. Their bond is incredibly special.

The surgeon is proposing a date for the operation at the end of May or, at the very latest, the beginning of June. Sadly, we have very little time. We are at a fragile tipping point, leaving us with a very small window in which to raise the funds needed. We want to give Gus the same unconditional love that he has always given our family, and the chance to continue living a happy and joyful life.

Please, if you are able to contribute and share our fundraiser it could truly help save his life.

Any contribution, no matter how small, would mean the world to us, and we would be incredibly grateful. Thank you ❤️