Wally, a six-year-old Lurcher full of energy and affection, was enjoying his usual walk along the marshland when tragedy struck. Hidden within the tall grass lay a rusty metal pole, which Wally collided with at full speed. The impact caused a deep, severe wound near his groin, plunging both dog and owner into a harrowing ordeal.
Grace Rose-Gale, 28, a Rehabilitation, Training and Behaviour Advisor from Bridgwater and devoted animal rescuer, suddenly found herself on the receiving end of the emergency care she often advocates for. “That day was my worst nightmare,” Grace admits. “The fear I felt thinking he might not make it was overwhelming. I’m so grateful he’s still here.”
Rushing Wally to emergency veterinary care, Grace faced an uncertain road ahead. The initial surgery was only the beginning. Within two weeks, complications arose when the wound reopened, necessitating additional surgeries and intensive treatment. The challenges piled up — areas of skin died and tore, and each new setback threatened Wally’s survival.
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Despite her professional background in animal rescue, Grace felt vulnerable and overwhelmed, especially as medical bills soared beyond £14,000, far exceeding the £7,000 coverage provided by insurance. Encouraged by her sister, she launched a GoFundMe campaign—a step she had never imagined taking. “It was uncomfortable asking for help,” Grace shares. “But the kindness and support we received blew me away.”
The campaign raised over £4,000, helping cover crucial treatments, medications, and countless vet visits. Yet, the greatest gift was the shared spirit of community. Messages of encouragement poured in from strangers, friends, and family alike, bringing Grace to tears.
Grace has devoted herself fully to Wally’s care, arranging a makeshift bed from orthopedic mattresses where she sleeps beside him nightly. “I’ve barely left the house except for vet appointments in the past ten weeks,” she says. “He’s been my constant companion, needing me every moment.”
Wally’s spirit has remained remarkable, especially considering his usual fear of vet visits. “For a dog who loves to run and explore, he’s handled this confinement and rehabilitation like a true champion,” Grace says proudly. Blake Vets, along with Wally’s dedicated surgeon, have been instrumental in his recovery, earning Grace’s heartfelt gratitude for their compassion and expertise.
During recovery, Wally’s world has slowed down. Gone are the long woodland runs and beach escapades, replaced by careful wound care and indoor enrichment. Their connection, however, has deepened through this shared struggle.
Grace has a lifelong history of rescuing animals, from horses to chickens and dogs. Meeting her other rescue dog, Wilfy, in 2017 affirmed her calling. When Wally arrived as a stray puppy shortly after, the bond was instant and life-changing.
Now nearing the final stages of healing, challenges remain. Recent setbacks, like a burst stitch creating a new wound, remind Grace that the journey is far from over. She continues to encourage support for Wally’s ongoing care, committing any leftover funds to other animal charities.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Grace emphasizes the importance of pet insurance, remarking, “Vet costs can escalate faster than most expect. Without insurance and community support, Wally’s story could have ended very differently.”
As recovery progresses, Grace and Wally look forward to returning to their beloved outdoor adventures. “We’ll cherish every walk, every moment outside,” she says with hope. And for those thinking about a new pet, Grace’s message is clear: “Adopt. You save a life, and they save yours.”