Back in 2019 our beautiful Vizsla Cooper suddenly became very ill. We rushed him to our out of hours vets as we suspected it was VIP (Vizsla Inflammatory Polymyopathy); an auto immune muscle disease where the body attacks and impairs the function of its own muscle fibres. 

Our vets suggested he be moved to the RVC at Potters Bar for specialist care which we did.

Cooper had lost so much weight, he wasn’t eating or drinking, and his muscle was literally wasting away before our eyes. But as soon as we arrived at the hospital we knew he was in great care.

We had to sign forms saying we understood he might not make it through surgery; we really did almost lose him to this very quick disease.

But… from the receptionists who kept us informed every day, to the amazing veterinary staff who gave him constant cuddles, the love and care was outstanding and we finally brought him home about 5 days later.

The vet was just wonderful, and I know that if we hadn’t have taken him to this hospital we wouldn’t have him with us now.

For those of you who don’t know, Greg and I have had several miscarriages and Cooper is absolutely everything to us; he is now our only child and got us through some of the hardest times in our life. The thought that we could have lost him if we hadn’t have gone to the RVC hospital is just awful. I honestly don’t know what we would have done without him.

I’m running London Marathon this year and for those who know me this is no small feat. I completed it back in 2017 but with my grandad in hospital I couldn’t put the training in and I had to walk the majority. This time round I have started early, have a timed goal in mind and I’m really determined to do myself proud.

The RVC helps all animals, not just dogs, and truly are fantastic so if you could spare a few pounds to sponsor me and help them I would be so grateful.