<p>Update 31 January 2012: We have the saddest news. Ethel had her operation today. Her x-rays were clear, much to everyone's relief, and the huge lump was removed. Then Ethel stopped breathing :-( The vet was very sadly unable to bring her back and Ethel passed away.</p> <p>Everyone at Oldies Club is very upset at this devastating outcome. We would like to thank you all for donating to give Ethel a much needed chance and for caring about her. Run free, Ethel, never to be forgotten.</p> <p>*****************</p> <p>Wow, thank you all so much. After launching this page earlier today, we have already met the initial target and more. We will update with more news when we can - and thank you, everyone, who has made a donation. Your support is truly appreciated :-)</p> <p>*WARNING: the content of the second photograph is extremely distressing, so please feel free to read the info and donate towards Ethel's operation, without clicking onto the second photo!*</p> <p>This page has been set up to raise funds for Ethel, a lovely black Labrador cross female, who requires an operation.</p> <p>Ethel was picked up as a stray on an industrial estate in the north east of England, at around 3.30 am one morning, by the local policing team. She was taken for out of hours treatment and, as you can see if you decide to view the second photograph (*WARNING: distressing content*), poor Ethel is urgently in need of an operation to remove an enormous tumour.</p> <p>The dog warden contacted Oldies Club to ask if we could help Ethel. We're told she is a very loving girl who still has copious amounts of energy, loves walks and also her food. Ethel is thought to be around ten years old and she is good with other dogs. The vets advise that she is in good body condition, other than the horrific tumour attached to her chest.</p> <p>Several vets have seen Ethel and are quite optimistic that the tumour can be easy to remove, so Oldies Club has agreed to pay for the operation. We have been advised that the operation is likely to cost &pound;250 including VAT, but will update the target if needed.</p> <p>Since the operation is the priority, Ethel will remain in the care of the dog warden while she has the operation and we will then arrange to move her into Oldies Club care when she is able to travel. We already have a lovely foster home lined up for her, for when she's ready to move.</p> <p>Oldies Club would be really, really grateful if you would make a donation towards Ethel's emergency operation. Every donation will make a difference. Please share this page with your dog loving friends too, in case they would like to help as well. Thank you.</p> <p>Please note that should Oldies Club supporters be generous enough to donate more than is needed for Ethel's vet bill, any excess money will be directed to the charity&rsquo;s general fund and used to help other older dogs in its care.</p> <p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving &ndash; they&rsquo;ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they&rsquo;ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it&rsquo;s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p>