A Rescued Dog Fights Another Battle
South Oxon and Vale of the White Horse response officer, Nick Fisher, first encountered a lurcher named Chase during a 2019 hare coursing incident in South Oxfordshire. Once a distressed and malnourished dog, riddled with fleas and wounds, Chase has since turned a corner, embracing a loving family life. Yet now, he faces a new challenge: high-grade canine lymphoma that has spread throughout his body.
“He’s a clumsy boy with a heart of gold,” Mr. Fisher fondly recalls. “Considering the life he came from, he settled into normal family life very quickly. He’s a bit too big to be a lap dog, but that doesn’t stop him from sitting on you for a cuddle!”
Road to Recovery
Chase’s family is preparing for a six-month chemotherapy regimen. His recent blood test results have confirmed that he is healthy enough to undergo treatment. Although the scheduling and specific dosages are still being finalized, the process will be accompanied by oral steroids and at-home anti-sickness medications. The goal is clear: to push the cancer into remission so Chase can return to enjoying life as a cherished member of the family.
At the moment, Chase’s condition has dimmed his once-spirited energy. He no longer has the liveliness to play with Lilo, his Italian Greyhound companion, and has even lost his appetite for treats, something that previously brought him joy.
Funds for Chase
To support Chase’s treatment, his family has established a GoFundMe campaign with an initial target of £2,500. The anticipated total cost of vet fees ranges between £6,000 and £8,000. If the campaign surpasses its initial target, the family plans to increase the goal, with any excess funds being donated to charities working to combat canine lymphoma.
Despite the daunting prognosis, the family remains determined to provide Chase with the best chance at remission and a return to the life he loves.
Combating Hare Coursing
Reflecting on the 2019 hare coursing incident that brought Chase into their lives, Mr. Fisher emphasizes the challenges of addressing such activities: “Unfortunately, there were no convictions despite the vehicle being seized alongside Chase, which would have disrupted future criminal activities.”
Hare coursing isn’t just cruel to animals; it also places significant pressure on local farmers. These activities can cause thousands of pounds in crop damage, impacting livelihoods. Farmers in rural areas are encouraged to take preventive measures such as blocking unused field entrances, joining rural crime WhatsApp groups, and promptly reporting incidents to the police.
A Hope for the Future
Chase’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience found in rescue animals. For his family, the dream is that, after this battle with cancer, Chase will once again enjoy life’s simple pleasures—running through the countryside, playing with Lilo, and indulging in his favorite treats with boundless joy.
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