A family in Southampton is desperately seeking help to save their beloved dog, Ria, a nine-year-old Staffy who has been diagnosed with cancer and is only expected to live for a few more months.
Ria was diagnosed with a mast cell tumour just four days ago, and her devastated family is now facing the difficult reality of paying for an urgent surgery to remove it. The operation is expected to cost between £1,100 and £1,300, an amount that the family, including Channan Wheeler, her husband Robert, and their nine-year-old daughter Kyra, simply cannot afford.
“I would sell the last thing I own to make sure my dogs have what they need,” said Channan. Despite the family’s commitment to funding part of the procedure, they are struggling financially and need help.
Ria’s surgery is scheduled for April 24, but the vets have emphasized the need to act quickly to remove the tumour. Additionally, Ria has three other lumps that need to be removed, each costing between £250 and £300.
Channan explained, “Ria is only nine, she is not ready to go yet,” and shared that Ria has been a vital part of their family, particularly helping Robert, who suffers from agoraphobia and anxiety. Ria’s companionship has been instrumental in improving Robert’s mental health.
Kyra, who is closely bonded with Ria, has already faced the loss of Rex, the family’s other dog, and Robert’s stepdad to cancer in the past year. Channan fears that Kyra might have to witness another death in the family, this time due to financial struggles.
To help cover the costs of Ria’s surgery, a fundraiser has been launched. The family is holding onto hope that they can raise the funds in time to give Ria the chance to live a longer, healthier life.
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