Kind woman pays £550 to rescue dog from Spain - and ends up with £1,500 vet bill

30 August 2023 , 09:26

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Clare Kidd paid out the £550 after falling in love with three-year-old Olive on a dog rehoming website (Image: MEN Media)

A pet owner is facing a staggering £1,500 vet bill mere days after shelling out £550 to rehoming her beloved dog from Spain.

Clare Kidd became smitten by the three year old mongrel Olive on a dog rehoming website and did not hesitate to pay the hefty sum to bring her new companion to the UK. Their joyous reunion at an M1 service station, though, was marred when Clare noticed Olive's "wonky" leg.

Despite raising her concerns with the rescue company, they dismissed it as a result of a previous injury. Now, without proper treatment, Olive faces the grim prospect of amputation.

Clare, a 55-year-old administration worker, expressed her distress: She told Stoke-on-Trent Live: "As soon as she got off the bus it was apparent that something was wrong with her leg. Something, somewhere went very wrong. It was worrying and upsetting, she was so lame.

"It's not the rescue's fault. They didn't know Olive had a bad leg but I'm disappointed with the lack of support since it became apparent. It's a tricky situation. What do I do? Send her back? I have to do what I can for the dog."

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The cost of Olive's treatment initially quoted by an orthopaedic specialist was a whopping £10,000. A second quote brought some relief at £3,000, which has now been halved.

Clare, of Barlaston, Staffordshire, remains hopeful, saying: "She's had a wonky leg for most of her life. With this, she'll be able to run about like a normal three year old dog. That would be amazing for her."

In a heartfelt plea, the fundraiser organiser expressed: "I'd be so grateful for any amount that anybody donated, I know times are tough. Even just £1 would make a difference to Olive."

The appeal has already garnered an impressive sum of over £1,000. Any surplus funds will be generously redirected to a local dog charity. To contribute to this noble cause and make a difference in Olive's life, click here.

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Rachel Alexander