Bluey's story is a sad one in many ways but it's also a story of love and of hope.

Bluey's first family took seriously ill and couldn't manage. At that point a dog sitter looked after him short term but then he went into kennels. What happened next was series of foster homes and when his last home, through no fault of his own, didn't work, Helen Gray, the Newfoundland club welfare officer thankfully stepped in and my son and I were given the chance to foster him. We went to see him, and immediately fell in love with this huge unruly mischievous but adorable ball of fluff. We had to take him otherwise he would have had to go back in temporary kennels until a foster home became available.

Bluey is a big Newfoundland dog with an even bigger heart. Trained in water rescue and draught work, he’s helped pull carts through town and even proudly pulls Santa’s sleigh at Christmas. Despite his giant size, Bluey is the gentlest dog you’ll ever meet, kids adore him, strangers become friends instantly, and everyone in town knows him as the happiest, friendliest dog in the world.

But just a few weeks ago Bluey was diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia in his left hip. Though slightly milder he has the same on his right hip as well. This means Bluey is on strong painkillers round the clock, his walks are reduced to just 15 minutes twice a day, no running with his friends, no carting, just a restricted and solitary life, as the meds make him sleep a lot. The vet has said that without hip replacement surgery his condition is going to become worse very quickly. Insurance will not cover it and whilst the Newfoundland club fully cover all pre existing conditions of dogs adopted through welfare this only surfaced later on. This said we will always be committed to support all dogs adopted through welfare hence us exploring all options to support Bluey. We fund dozens of dogs with ongoing medical treatment and resources are stretched to put it mildly. .

His quality of life has been drastically cut down as he loves to socialise with people and dogs.

Now for the really sad part....Bluey is only 3 years old and still has puppy ways. Though he tries this giant baby can't play with his toys for more than 2 minutes at a time, and now spends his days just laying quietly. He is in a truly loving home and has found his happy forever place at last. Please help if you're able.

Thank you.