Good news for Nugget

Photo: Contributed

Nugget is a 100-pound lap dog in need of surgery.

A big, loveable pooch will be getting vital surgery after donations from the public poured in.

Nugget became the Belle of the ball this week when people learned the “100-pound lap dog” needed surgery to repair two ruptured cruciates.

The fawn-coloured mastiff mix sometimes wags her tail so hard, she injures herself, and the damaged ligaments affect her ability to walk.

Chelsea Taylor, Vernon SPCA manager, said the surgery and other care needs for Nugget, such as getting spayed, comes to around $9,000.

But one Okanagan veterinarian is willing to do the crucial surgery for $6,000.

Marco Veenis with the Okanagan Veterinary Hospital, said he would be happy to help the dog.

“At my hospital, we take a special interest in orthopedic cases and perform large numbers of these surgeries,” said Veenis in an email to Castanet.

Taylor said $5,825 has been raised for Nugget from public donations.

“There has been a huge jump in donations since the story went out,” said Taylor. “It's very exciting to know that we are going to be able to provide her with everything she needs while in our care.”

Taylor said she has left a message with Veenis to talk about Nugget.

And if Nugget gets more money than is needed, the leftover funds will go towards helping other animals, like Mac.

Mac is a border collie cross who also needs surgery.

“Mac is just the sweetest thing you will ever meet,” said Taylor, adding Mac is in need of hip surgery.

The surgery and other needed care, such as being neutered, will come in at around $3,000.

So far, $750 has been raised to help the black and white dog.

Donations for Nugget, Mac and other animals at the Vernon SPCA can be done online.