A Yorkshire family is rallying for urgent assistance to rescue their cherished family companion, Chester, following a distressing freak accident during a routine walk. The Whippet cross, beloved by Jade Pickering and her family, now faces the grim prospect of a leg amputation and potential euthanasia due to the severity of his injuries.
The unfortunate incident occurred as the family was enjoying a walk near their Carlton home, near Wakefield. Chester, known for his exuberant sprints during outings, returned to them with a gaping and blood-soaked wound on his leg. The shock of the situation prompted the family to rush Chester to a veterinary clinic, where they received the devastating news that he had severed an artery, necessitating emergency surgery.
Despite the family’s hopes for Chester’s recovery, the surgery’s effectiveness was compromised by the wound’s location. The Pickering family now finds themselves tending to the wound every three days, employing packing, pressure, and dressing techniques to control the continuous bleeding.
Jade Pickering, reflecting on Chester’s vibrant personality, shared, “He’s a Whippet crossed with a Collie so he just loves running, when we’re out on walks he’ll always be tearing around. He came back to us on a walk after sprinting off a bit and I don’t know what he’d run into but he was gushing blood everywhere.”
The financial strain on the family has been substantial. Jade, who left her NHS job to care for her 15-month-old sick child requiring continuous support, and her husband David, 32, have been facing mounting expenses for Chester’s treatment. The family’s insurance covered only the initial surgery and consultations with veterinarians.
The challenge has grown more formidable as veterinarians recommended additional surgery and a skin graft, anticipated to cost around £6,000. The Pickering family, facing the potential loss of Chester, is turning to the community for assistance, launching a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for Chester’s critical treatment.
Amidst the turmoil, Jade emphasized Chester’s gentle and loving nature, which has endeared him to her children. The family’s heartfelt plea echoes a simple need – the possibility of a beloved pet’s recovery hangs in the balance, dependent on a collective effort to ensure that Chester receives the medical care that could save his life.
