Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 26th September 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Charity funds emergency surgery for retired police dog
“I can’t thank the Thin Blue Paw enough for what it’s done for Neo and for our family” – Rob James.
Neo was taken to the vets suffering from gastric torsion.

A retired police dog is recovering from life-saving surgery after a charity stepped in to cover the costs.

Neo, who served with Humberside Police, was taken ill at home in Hornsea, East Yorkshire, on 8 September. The German shepherd started making strange noises, had a hard stomach, and was trying to be sick.

Owner Rob James was called home from his work as a police officer by his partner and headed straight to the vets where a friend had driven the dog.

On his way to the practice, PC James contacted the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a charity which provides help for serving and retired police dogs in the UK. Retired police dogs do not receive any financial support from the force they worked for after they retire.

The veterinary team at the practice found that Neo had gastric torsion and needed immediate surgery. The charity agreed to cover the full cost of Neo’s surgery and the operation was a success.

PC James said: “Neo is doing really well after his surgery. I find myself thinking a lot about how life might have turned out if the Foundation hadn’t stepped in to help with the costs of this surgery – I'm so pleased he’s been given a chance.

“I can’t thank the Thin Blue Paw enough for what it’s done for Neo and for our family. I will forever be thankful for what you’ve done.”

Thin Blue Paw Foundation trustee Kieran Stanbridge added: “Poor Neo was seriously ill when Rob called us on the way to the vets and he wasn’t sure how he’d cover the costs of the emergency treatment. We knew we needed to help and we agreed to cover the full costs.

“We’re so pleased we were able to step in at Neo and Rob’s time of need, and that Neo is now back at home with his family recovering well.”

Image © Thin Blue Paw Foundation

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.