Pet Medical Crisis Fund helps out after seeing eye dog diagnosed with stomach tumours
ANDY shares a close bond with black Labrador Fergus — his seeing eye dog. He was overjoyed when the Pet Medical Crisis Fund stepped in to help out after Fergus became seriously ill.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
WHEN four-year-old black Labrador Fergus wants to “smooch” owner Andy, there’s no holding him back.
The pair share a close bond and Fergus likes to show his love for Andy.
“A big kiss on the face is a treat,” the Frankston man said with a broad smile.
“He is very friendly, big and crazy,” Andy added.
But once four-year-old Fergus — Andy’s seeing eye dog — gets his harness on, there’s no messing about.
“When he gets his harness on, he’s at work. It’s all business. There’s no mucking around.”
Andy, who is blind, recently got a shock when he realised Fergus was seriously ill.
“He would not get out of bed — normally he is jumping around,” Andy said.
“He would not eat, drink or get off his bed. It was totally out of his nature.”
A trip to the vet confirmed the worst with two tumours found in Fergus’s stomach.
“It was horrible. He is my guide dog and he is also my best mate,” Andy said.
“He helps me out more than he knows. It was distressing.”
Andy was particularly upset because he could not afford the veterinary surgery.
The Karingal Vet Hospital stepped in with a discounted rate and the Pet Medical Crisis Fund (PMCF) also kicked in $1000 to help out.
PMCF Jennifer Hunt said the organisation was keen to help, particularly as Fergus was Andy’s seeing eye dog and constant companion.
“Fergus came through major surgery and had two large tumours removed from his intestinal wall,” she said.
“Fergus is now resting comfortably at home with his dad looking after him for a change.”
Andy was rapt with the support from the PMCF — a not for profit, volunteer run charity, that assists disadvantaged pet owners who cannot afford surgery to keep their pet alive.
“It’s amazing there’s good people around,” he said.
Andy still needs to find about $1000 to pay for Fergus’ operation.
Tax deductible donations under “Fergus” name can be made at petmedicalcrisisfund.com.au