Over the past 6 months, our world has been completely turned upside down by two freak accidents involving my 8-year-old French Bulldog.

In January, Pippa was diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia and rushed down to Casey Pet Emergency.

Just as we were beginning to recover from that ordeal, in February, Pippa began showing alarming signs of lameness - starting with limping and being unable to bear weight on her right hind leg. She struggled to walk and often appeared wobbly or uncoordinated.

At first, our local vet suspected a simple sprain or strain. However, when there was no improvement, I arranged for X-rays and a sedated physical examination. The results left me uncertain, as the assessment wasn’t done by our usual vet, so I sought a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon at another veterinary clinic. They observed neurological symptoms and referred us to a neurologist at the Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH).

The neurologist diagnosed Pippa with paraparesis and suspected a cervical disc extrusion, based on her physical and neurological examination. Although a definitive diagnosis can’t be made without advanced imaging, her symptoms and neurological deficits are consistent with a lesion on the right side of her cervical spine (C1-T2, most likely C6-T2). Possible causes include intervertebral disc disease, neoplasia, or inflammation. The neurologist has strongly recommended an MRI, estimated to cost between $4,200 and $6,000, depending on whether cerebrospinal fluid collection is also required. The MRI will help determine whether Pippa needs spinal surgery to treat the underlying issue and prevent further deterioration.

Pippa has consistently been on Meloxicam for over 8 weeks, and while there has been slight improvement with strict crate rest and pain management, her condition hasn’t resolved. A short trial off Meloxicam (from 17/06 to 20/06), approved by the neurologist, resulted in a significant return of pain - further highlighting the need for imaging and a clear diagnosis. Meloxicam is only designed to be used for short term use, so I am extremely concerned about the long-term implications this will have on her kidneys.

At her recent recheck appointment at VRH, the neurologist noted some mild progress but emphasised that an MRI is still essential to determine the next steps and prevent the risk of permanent neurological damage or paralysis.

I have done everything in my power to support Pippa’s care - emotionally, physically, and financially. Ongoing vet bills, medication, multiple consultations, and specialist visits have placed me under significant financial strain.

I cannot express how much Pippa means to me. She is not just a dog - she is my closest companion. The thought of having to surrender her or make the unthinkable decision to put her to sleep because of financial hardship is devastating.

I’m reaching out in absolute desperation, hoping for any financial support, advice, or assistance. The MRI is critical - not just to confirm a diagnosis, but to give Pippa the chance to live out her remaining years pain-free and happy.

In addition to Pippa’s challenges, I was admitted to Casey Hospital on 15/06/2025 with pneumonia (a double whammy) and have been forced to take time off work while I recover, which has made an already difficult situation even harder to manage.

If there are any funds left over after covering Pippa’s urgent MRI and the likely need for spinal surgery, they will be put toward her second BOAS surgery - which was strongly recommended by Casey Pet Emergency to improve her long-term quality of life.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and for any help you may be able to offer.

Megan