Paying it forward – for Brutus

This is not something I normally do, but every once in a while something really smacks me in the face and I think, yup, this here is an opportunity to pay it forward. You see, once upon I time, I was stretched pretty thin financially and my heart dog Samantha needed emergency surgery. I had absolutely no idea how on earth I would be able to afford the surgery but somehow the universe conspired to come to my aid. My vet took her without asking for payment up front and a couple of people came to my assistance with lifeline loans. I couldn’t have done it without their help and I’m eternally grateful.

But this isn’t about me, it’s about gorgeous Brutus! A big, lovable galoot of a Mastiff. Brutus was adopted just about a week ago from sketchy circumstances by one of the young guys who manages the farm that I live on. He and his wife were in search of a low energy, adorable pooch that would be low maintenance and grow with their young family. They went to see him and were unsettled by how thin he was and by what appeared to be an untreated eye infection.

 

His charms in combination with his situation made their decision a no-brainer. They wanted to get him home, love him up, put some weight on him and get that eye taken care of. Unfortunately, what they quickly discovered is that their newest family member has a serious eye condition called Entropion, where the eye lid curls in. Worse still, in Brutus’ case, the vet said that it had obviously been left untreated for several months because of the terrible condition of his eye – his cornea has ulcerated.

I can’t imagine the pain this gentle giant has experienced in recent months. But his new family is committed to him. The specialty surgeries ahead and medicines will run into the several thousands. On top of that, his right eye is showing signs of deterioration as well.

First things first, his impending surgery to repair (or possibly remove) his eye is currently quoted at $3300. October 6th is his specialist consultation. Being the ipso facto “dog lady” in these parts, Scott called me to ask if I had any ideas for how they might navigate the waters and my first thought was to start a Go Fund Me campaign. Sarah got that set up immediately and people have shown extreme kindness and generosity by donating to Brutus’ cause already.

 

Asking a “Mastiff” favour for Brutus

I’m a firm believer in “paying it forward” so I went to meet Brutus and took some images that I hope will help to get his story out there. He is a ridiculously adorable pooch and he is clearly in love with his new family. He’s already put on weight and I know that with help he will get through this and live a long and happy life full of belly rubs. The universe has a way working magic when we most need it and I’m hoping that it will help Brutus to get all the medical attention he needs.

If you would like to help Brutus, please consider donating to his Go Fund Me campaign. Even a $5 donation can make a world of difference to a daunting bottom line. (See it’s not really that big of a favour after all!) If you already have donated, there is a special place in heaven waiting for you!

Thanks for reading this and please feel free to share the blog or directly from the Go Fund Me campaign to help raise awareness. Brutus says thank you from the bottom of his furry little heart. Yes really, that’s what the slobbery bubbles are all about. (well that, or the liver treats in my pocket!)