The wonderful Xolani, was devastatingly taken from us on the 25th of March 2026.

She had been at football with Jess on Saturday the 21st of March, seemingly fit and well, showing some little signs of something not being right by Sunday evening, then taking a turn that saw her rushed to Lumbry Park veterinary hospital in Hampshire on Monday. After lots of tests and some time in intensive care, it was found out she had an aggressive form of cancer.

Treatment options were limited and none of them would have cured our beautiful puppers. Jess was told she had from days maybe to months, buts she went downhill rapidly, becoming seriously ill within 24 hours,

it was at this point the devastating decision was taken to help Xolani on her final journey, she left us peacefully in Jess’s arms.

Now the toughest bit. Of course Jess had Xolani insured, but we all know policies have limits and excesses, but the final bill is as in excess of £6,500. Insurance are covering a big chunk of this, but there is a shortfall of over £1500.

We all know that Xolani wasn’t only a companion, but she was an assistance dog (the very best of assistance dogs), because of Jess’ health her capacity to work is limited. I have set this up to try and help cover some of the shortfall.

If you can donate anything, even just £2, it all counts and is less that Jess has to try and find. Any excess funds raised will contribute towards the training of Jess’ future assistance dog Stanley, who is joining Jess late May 2026.

Xolani Barnes, Canine Partners assistance dog, best friend, exceptional swimmer and just the best puppers!

4/4/2019-25/3/2026

Update:

So after chatting with Jess we have realised the outstanding amount after the insurance is a lot more than we previously thought.

Between the Insurance, Excesses, Canine Partners support and muddled brains, it was easy to do (we will happily provide full figures when it is completely settled, we all know how long insurance companies take to settle these things).

This amount is likely to be much closer to £4000🥺

Which has left us feeling really awkward about me changing the amounts on the go fund me, but wanted to make sure you all had clarity about your donations.

So we will increase the total we are aiming for, we honestly do not expect to get anywhere near that, your wonderful donations have already taken a big chunk of stress from Jess and she is much closer to that final figure already.

It looks like there won’t be anything to donate to Stanley’s future training, but that’s fine (it was never the purpose of this GoFundMe, plus you’ve all got to see some gorgeous puppy pictures anyway!

Feel free to share away anywhere you see as appropriate.

Every person who’s read my waffle, shared or donated is a hero💙