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A Midlothian pensioner is "heartbroken" after his puppy sustained life-threatening injuries while on a walk in the park.
Gerry, a 75-year-old from Loanhead, is fundraising to cover the veterinary costs for his one-year-old dog, Max, who sustained a broken shoulder among other injuries.
While out on their daily walk, a larger dog attacked Max, leaving the pup with torn muscles, lacerations, and an infection following surgery.
Max spent two weeks in the veterinary hospital undergoing MRI scans, two surgeries, and complex reconstructive procedures.
Alison, a dog breeder and Gerry's friend, told Edinburgh Live: "He was heartbroken that happened to his wee dog in the first place and devastated that he won't be able to go back to that park anymore because he'll always have that memory."
Max sustained a broken shoulder
(Image: Supplied)
She said Max may now suffer from "a lifetime of anxiety" and that "the dog just wont be its wee self."
Alison said Max used to be sociable and love approaching strangers but his character has changed following the incident.
She added: "He is withdrawn and not his normal way. He was quite friendly but he has withdrawn because of what happened. He's obviously sticking with Gerry and that's where his safe place is. [Gerry] is not letting him out of his sight.
"I'm surprised he's still alive but glad he is to tell the tale."
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Max is a "lifeline" for pensioner Gerry and his "constant companion"
(Image: Supplied)
The pensioner is now fundraising to cover the cost of hefty medical bills for his dog. The total bill tallied over £10,500 but thankfully Gerry's insurance and additional funding from the veterinary hospital were able to cover much of it. Gerry is trying to raise £2,500 to cover outstanding fees.
Alison added: "He had enough tragedies without thinking of how he's going to pay this bill. It's hard enough for pensions without extra stress on them as well and looking after his wee dog."
Max is described as a "lifeline" for the pensioner and his "constant companieon". The GoFundMe page reads: "The joy on Gerry’s face since Max returned home is impossible to describe.
"If you’re able to contribute anything at all, it would mean the world. Your support will go directly towards paying the remaining vet bills and giving Gerry the peace of mind to focus on what truly matters: Max’s healing, and the time they can now spend together."
A spokesperson from Midlothian Council said: "Midlothian Council received information regarding a dog-on-dog attack reported as having occurred in the Midlothian area on 15 May 2025. At this time investigations into the matter are continuing."
To find more information about Gerry's fundraiser, you can follow this link.