Caring for end of life (Hospice) dogs
Help old dogs get the care, love and medical treatment they deserve!
Whangarei, Northland
My name is Francine Shields. I run K9Luva Training and High Needs Home Stays.
After 30 years in animal rescue (Manager of an SPCA for over 20 years) and a passion for rescue and traumatised dogs. I started my business 4 years ago with the goal of helping owners and dogs overcome challenging emotional and behaviour problems. The goal is to be able to support having a Dog Hospice. I adopt old and sick dogs from other rescues to give them all the care and love they deserve after a hard working life.
Seed is a 14 year old huntaway x heading dog that has come to me from Levin. Seed has not had any veterinary care and needs extensive medications and major surgery to remove his rotten and incredibly painful teeth. Seed is a loving and trusting old man and he deserves the remainder of his life to be filled with LOVE, CARE and NO PAIN.
His veterinary costs are already up to $5000 and I just don't have the personal funds to cover this alone so Seed and I are asking for your help. Any funds raised will be held in a separate account for the use of Hospice Dogs that come into my care.
Use of funds
Seed needs dental work at around $5000, his daily pain medication is $50 per day.
Other page links
Latest update
Seed has made it through all his surgery. 22 September 2025
Seed's Final surgery day today.
We did it!!
Another massive day of surgery for Seed today. 3 Hours under General Anaesthetic His final 3 rotten & nerve exposed teeth are gone! The vets and I are so amazed at how stoic this old fella is. 2 hours after coming off the table he is up and about at home, and eating lovely soft mushy food.
Ever wondered why it is so expensive if you let your dog's teeth get to this point?...
In the photos you will see 2 of the 3 teeth that were removed, one photo shows how much we see and how much is below the gum line.
THANK YOU SO MUCH to all who have donated towards his surgery. I only have $1300 left to find to cover what's remaining of the initial $5000 so I feel incredibly blessed to have been so kindly supported. Seed thanks you a hundred times more!
He is booked for Flinchlock and massage in 3 weeks and hopefully that will also help with his old bone pains.
And of course - massive appreciation to Your Vet at Waipu for the exceptional care they have given Seed (and all my dogs that go there!), allowing me to stay until he is sedated so I can make a Seed Burrito. You guys are amazing!
Latest donations
Thank you very much for your kindness Nick. Seed is doing great and enjoying his new life.
Thank you Martell. See your doggos on Tuesday!
Aw Katrina, you have a generous heart.
Ria - you are naughty! Thank you xx
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