She's spent her life helping others. Now Usha needs our help.

Usha is a five-year-old Labrador who has spent her life helping others. Now she needs help herself.

After my dog Ada, New Zealand's first diabetes response dog, died, Assistance Dogs NZ offered me Usha. I was looking for a companion for my mum, who had Alzheimer's.

I trained Usha to stay close to Mum. During months in hospital, her visits gave Mum a reason to get up and walk. She also visited Mum in her high-dependency unit at Bert Sutcliffe in Birkenhead, bringing smiles to residents and staff. As a St John Therapy Pet, Usha visited families at Ronald McDonald House, too.

Both my parents died last year. Usha is one of the few living connections I have to Mum, and the bond they shared is incredibly precious.

In November 2025, I suffered a haemorrhagic stroke and spent a month in hospital. Recovery disrupted my ability to earn. As a single mum, I've struggled to cover the mortgage and everyday costs while rebuilding my health. I've only recently been able to return to work, albeit on a much lower income.

Now Usha has suffered serious liver damage. Vets are still investigating the cause. She needs hospital care, medication, and ongoing treatment.

I've already paid more than $5,000 in vet bills and set a $10,000 goal to help cover those costs and those that lie ahead.

Usha has given so much comfort to others. If you can donate or share her story, you'll be helping us give some much deserved care back to her.