When we rescued Iris, surgery was not an option.
She was found on the streets in a very difficult condition.
She had leishmaniasis affecting her skin, with hair loss and visible damage across her body. On top of that, she was struggling to walk due to a torn cruciate ligament.
She was in pain.
But operating at that moment would have been a mistake.
Leishmaniasis is a serious disease.
If a dog goes into surgery without being stabilised, the anesthesia can weaken the immune system to the point where the disease flares up aggressively. In many cases, that risk is simply too high.
So we didn’t rush.
We started treatment.
We gave her time.
We focused on getting her stable first.
Over the past weeks, Iris has made an incredible recovery.
Her skin has healed., Her fur has grown back. Her body has regained strength.
Today, she is a completely different dog.
Healthy, present, full of life.
But there is one thing that hasn’t changed.
She is still in pain.
The ligament injury is still there.
She still struggles to walk properly.
And without surgery, this is as far as her recovery will go.
This is why we are here today.
This morning we brought Iris from our shelter, the Great House, to the hospital.
She arrived calmly, fasting, ready for what comes next, even if she doesn’t fully understand it.
Now, for the first time since we rescued her, surgery is possible.
She is strong enough. She is stable.
And this is the moment to act.
The procedure she needs will repair her leg and give her the chance to live without pain. To move normally. To finally leave this behind.
We have done everything necessary to get her here.
Now we need to take this final step.
If you have followed Iris’ story, you know how much she has already overcome.
This is what will complete her recovery.
???? If you can help, please support Iris’ surgery.
Thank you for being part of this process,
and for helping us do things the right way, step by step, without shortcuts.
Viktor Larkhill