'Heartbroken' Lincoln mum told puppy Mash needs life-saving heart surgery costing thousands

Joe Griffin

30 April 2024 at 11:17 am·1-min read

Mash the Dachshund cross Jack Russell from Lincoln "needs her broken heart fixing" — Mash the Dachshund cross Jack Russell from Lincoln 'needs her broken heart fixing' -Credit:Taya Murray

A heartbroken single mum is attempting to raise money to fund her puppy's life-saving heart surgery. Taya Murray, from Lincoln, was told that her 19-week-old puppy Mash must undergo surgery after being diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), which has a 60 per cent mortality rate by the age of one if left untreated.

Taya, 33, took in Mash, a Dachshund cross Jack Russell, after spotting her on a rescue page. She was told that a scan and surgery would cost £4,700 but wouldn't be covered by her insurance as she visited the vet for a checkup before the 14-day period after starting her policy.

Taya, a recovery worker at HMP Lincoln, said: "I loved Mash as soon as I came across her picture. I just wanted to take care of her and give her a loving home.

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"I was heartbroken when I was told that she needed surgery but was hopeful that the insurance would cover it. Sadly it wouldn't and I just didn't know what to do as she was given a death sentence."

Mash and her playmate Sausage -Credit:Taya Murray

She says that her other dog Sausage, a dachshund, would be "lost" without her playmate Mash. Taya added: "Mash is such a loving and sweet girl who really needs help to fix her broken heart."

A GoFundMe has been set up to raise money for Mash's surgery. Taya said: "The scan is £200 and the surgery is £4,500. I am a single mum who works full time but I don't have that kind of money".

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