Adam Barr, from Morpeth, Northumberland, is raising funds for Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter after the charity provided extraordinary veterinary care for Cupcake, a neglected English Bulldog who has become a cherished member of his family. Barr hopes to raise £1,000 for the shelter, which performed what he describes as "an absolute miracle" in rebuilding Cupcake's back feet and correcting her cherry eye.
How Cupcake came into the Barr family
The Barr family, experienced in rehoming rescue dogs, lost their French Bulldog Jaffa just before Christmas last year. When they learned about Cupcake, a neglected English Bulldog needing a welfare foster family, they went to meet her. "The day we met her, we fell in love with what has turned out to be one of the most friendly and sweet-natured dogs I've ever known," said Adam.
Cupcake arrived with severe health issues: the skin on the underside of her feet had never fully developed into paw pads, causing her nails to cut into the skin and create daily wounds. She also had significant skin conditions, bare patches of fur, cherry eye in both eyes, inter-digital cysts, and breathing difficulties.
The 'miracle' surgery
Last month, vets appointed by the Newcastle Cat & Dog Shelter performed surgery to rebuild Cupcake's back feet and correct the cherry eye. Adam called the work "an absolute miracle." Cupcake is now making a strong recovery, and her puppy energy fills the house daily. "All of this fine veterinary work comes at a heavy price, and it has been funded by the amazing team at the shelter," Adam said. "As a family, we felt we needed to try to give as much back as we can."
Fundraiser prize draw
To incentivize donations, Adam is offering an Epiphone Les Paul Pro electric guitar, valued at over £500, which he donated himself. Every £10 donated enters the donor's name into a prize draw once; donations of £30 and £50 earn three and five entries respectively. All money raised goes directly to Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter to fund ongoing animal care. Donations can be made via JustGiving.
