Help Harvey's Road to Recovery from a Spinal Stroke

Harvey is our six-year-old Huntaway dog who we rescued from abuse and starvation four years ago. Gradually he became confident, happy, and healthy. On the 9th June 2023 tragedy struck. Our beautiful boy suffered a Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE), more commonly known as a sudden canine spinal stroke. This occurs when there is a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the spinal cord, which causes paralysis.

Harvey immediately lost the use of his hind legs, bladder, and bowel functions. He was cared for 24/7 at the Mangawhai Vet Centre for 20 days. The love, care, help, treatment, and physiotherapy given by the Mangawhai Vets, Vet nurses, and all the staff to support Harvey, has been beyond exceptional. We are hugely indebted to them for this and the emotional support given to us as we visited every day.

Harvey was allowed home on the 28th of June 2023 and is making good progress. He has a front and back harness with handles, allowing him to be supported, especially for mobility and physiotherapy sessions.

The Mangawhai Vet Centre and Auckland Physiotherapist Ashley Young (VSA) are continuing with their ongoing recovery regime, all of which we are following at home, to maximise Harvey's recovery. His gentle engaging nature has won the hearts of everyone involved.

All the funds raised will be used towards Harvey's ongoing care and physiotherapy, which will need to continue for many months, on top of the thousands of dollars already spent on his recovery.