Can you help pay for an operation for Tia's ears?

Byline: Peter Collins

A PEDIGREE dog left for dead in a lane needs urgent surgery to save her life.

The French bulldog was found wandering in the Vale of Glamorgan village of Llysworney and was rescued by a resident.

It is thought Tia's owners ditched her because she has developed unsightly growths in her ears - a condition called bilateral ear canal neoplasia.

But now Tia will die unless the charity that has taken her in can raise the estimated pounds 1,500 needed to operate.

Vale of Glamorgan dog warden Caroline Cowan said: "The person that found her was very concerned about the state of Tia's ears. I can't imagine why anyone would want to abandon her except because of the growth in her ears and the cost of the operation to put it right."

Tia is being cared for at the Croft Rescue Kennels, Coity, near Bridgend, where staff named her and are hoping to raise the estimated pounds 1,500 it will cost for the ear operation.

Janet Long, manager of the kennels, said: "We have launched an appeal on our website and have posters up at the kennels asking for people to contribute towards the cost of the operation.

"Not having the operation is not an option. She needs the operation and she needs it quickly.

"We will find the money somehow because there is just no way we are going to put this beautiful, happy-go-lucky dog down."

Tia, who is about four years old, is a fairly rare breed and worth between pounds 2,000 and pounds 4,000.

Caroline said: "She is a lovely dog, very friendly. She is not in pain as such, but is in some discomfort. Everyone would want to adopt her, but in her condition at the moment that is just not possible. She deserves the chance of a new home."

Anyone who would like to make a contribution can contact the kennels on 01656 861067 or 862288.

CAPTION(S):

Four-year-old French bulldog Tia with Kyle Keepings, of Croft Rescue Kennels, near Bridgend PICTURE: Peter Bolter [umlaut]