I will do everything I can to save her - Blackpool therapist's desperate plea to help dog with rare illness

When Rosie Tackley noticed her bull dog cockapoo, Koda, was unusually sleepy and not quite herself, little did she know how poorly her beloved companion was.

That was just a week ago and now the four-year-old dog is fighting for her life against rare autoimmune disease Immune-Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia.

Rosie, who works in Blackpool as a therapeutic practictioner with children is now trying to fundraise through GoFundMe to pay for life-saving treatment - and to raise important awareness of an rapidly progressive illness.

She said: “IMHA can progress frighteningly quickly and can become life-threatening within days.

“The veterinary team have told us there is approximately a 50/50 chance that her current treatment will work. Every day without her feels unbearable.”

Since being admitted, Koda has required two blood transfusions and is receiving a combination of medications designed to suppress her immune system and stop it from destroying her red blood cells. Despite intensive treatment, her condition remains critical.

“Anyone who knows me, or has ever known me, knows what Koda means to me.

“She has been by my side through some of the best moments of my life and some of the hardest. She isn't just my dog - she is my constant companion, my comfort, my shadow, and a huge part of who I am.

“Before this week, I had never heard of IMHA.

“Since Koda became ill, I have spoken to countless other owners whose dogs have faced the same battle.

“Some have recovered, and some heartbreakingly have not. This disease can affect any dog, at any time, and it moves incredibly fast. If sharing Koda's story raises awareness and helps even one other owner recognise the signs early, then that will be something positive to come from this nightmare.”

What is IMHA?

It is a severe, life-threatening autoimmune condition where a dog's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells.

This causes a rapid drop in red blood cells, leading to dangerous anemia, poor oxygen delivery to major organs, and a high risk of fatal blood clots

Symptoms

Because oxygen delivery is severely compromised, the disease often strikes quickly. Watch for the following:

• Pale or yellow gums: Gums may appear white, pale pink, or jaundiced (yellow).
• Lethargy & Weakness: Extreme fatigue, reluctance to exercise, or sudden collapse.
• Discolored urine: Red or dark brown urine (caused by the body trying to process destroyed blood cells)

Rosie, who is 29, is using her savings to pay for Koda’s treatment but they are running out rapidly. She feels there is a possibility that she may require specialist referral, additional blood transfusions, advanced diagnostics, intensive care, or other treatments if her current treatment does not achieve the response they are hoping for.

“I have pet insurance but that’s already nearing its limit. Asking for help does not come naturally to me, and creating this fundraiser has been one of the hardest things I have ever had to do.

“But Koda is worth every uncomfortable conversation, every penny, and every ounce of pride.

“If Koda does not survive this illness, any remaining funds after her veterinary expenses have been settled will be donated in her memory to an animal welfare or veterinary charity, so that her story can help other animals and families facing similar battles.”