By Lisa Ramsden
A FUNDRAISER in aid of veterinary care for a cherished cockapoo struck by a car a fortnight ago has raised thousands of pounds.
The incident happened on The Craig Road between Crossgar and Downpatrick on 28 July.
Five-year-old Lydia sustained catastrophic injuries. Both her hips were broken, her pelvis was shattered, her sternum was broken and she also sustained damage to her bladder and an eye.
Her owner feared the worst, but thanks to vets in Downpatrick and Belfast, coupled with Lydia’s inner fight, she fortunately survived.
Having undergone one major surgery so far, funds raised will go towards further specialist surgery and ongoing veterinary care. Due to insurance reaching its lifetime limit, Lydia’s owner faces bills in the region of £8,000.
To date, over 140 people have between them donated £3,000 via the gofundme.com site.
The first operation pinned one of her hips and now she is back home, Lydia is recuperating and gaining strength in advance of the anticipated further specialist surgery, coupled with ongoing veterinary care.
A close relative of Lydia’s owner came up with the idea of setting up a fundraising appeal and almost instantly the donations began pouring in.
Lauren Drain said the family “feared the worst” and are amazed at Lydia’s will to live, as well as the support of countless people, including dozens of strangers, who have donated what they can to assist.
The efforts of those who have shared the fundraising appeal far and wide are just as deeply appreciated.
She said the wider family “is so relieved to have Lydia through the operation,” and that while she recovers at home from this surgery, she will remain confined to a dog crate, as well as sedated, for her own safety.
However, she is allowed out to the garden, where she is carefully watched over by her younger brother, Bodie, who, since the accident and her return home, has developed an even more protective and caring approach.
Describing the public’s support as “phenomenal,” Lauren said: “We want to thank every single person who has supported Lydia so far on her journey, she’s become a bit of a local celebrity.”
