Story
For the last few months, Rocky has been battling painful ear infections. Despite rounds of antibiotics and ear treatments, nothing has brought him lasting relief. A couple of weeks ago, we had to sedate him so our vet could examine him properly. Rocky struggles with handling due to behavioural issues, which is one of the reasons he remains a permanent resident in our care.
Rocky’s story is heartbreaking. He was rescued from a property where illegal substances were being used and held. We believe he was deliberately mistreated and encouraged to “act aggressively” and “be viscous” to “protect the goods.” Despite this dark past, Rocky has come so far. Rocky is deeply loved by our team, and we are committed to giving him the best life possible.
The veterinary examination revealed devastating news: both of Rocky’s eardrums need to be removed to free him from pain. He has now been referred to a specialist hospital for this major surgery. The operation will leave him completely deaf - but it will also give him a life without constant pain and medication.
We are ready to adapt with him, using hand signals, touch cues, and our bond to help him navigate a silent world. Rocky can still have a happy, comfortable life - if we can give him the chance.
But the reality is, we’re struggling.
The cost of surgery is £8,700, and until we raise the full amount, Rocky cannot have the operation. Every day we wait, he remains on pain relief and antibiotics to try to keep him comfortable, but this is not a long-term solution.
In the past, we haven’t hesitated to say yes to large vet bills. We spent £20,000 on Eddie. Dahlia and her pups? Another £20,000. Kerrie’s care came to £9,000. We’ve done it before - but we need your help to do it again.
Right now, we are facing a serious financial strain. We only have enough funding to keep going for another 12 months at most. With around 60 dogs currently in our care, every penny is carefully accounted. As much as we adore Rocky, we have to weigh up whether we can justify putting such a significant amount into one dog when so many others are relying on us too. This is the heartbreaking reality of rescue work - making impossible choices not because we want to, but because we simply don’t have the resources.
Euthanasia is not what we want for Rocky. It’s not the easy way out, and it’s not because we don’t care. Quite the opposite. It would be the last resort - only if we truly cannot raise the money for the surgery that would save him.
Please, help us save Rocky’s life.
Every donation, share, and show of support brings us closer.
Rocky needs this surgery. Rocky deserves this chance. And we can’t do it without you.