When Mylo the Staffordshire Bull Terrier needed to have a tumour removed, his owner, Micha Quinn’s first thought was her son, Jack.
Jack has Autism and relies on Mylo for emotional and social support, and Micha did not know how she was going to be able to pay for the treatment Mylo desperately needed. If he didn’t receive the operation he needed the possible loss of him was difficult to contemplate, especially for Jack. She contacted Oak Tree to find out what options there were for help.
Learning about her situation and Jack’s reliance on Mylo, staff were determined to try to help keep them together and spoke with the vets to ascertain Mylo’s situation and were able to offer a contribution towards the treatment needed. Mylo underwent the operation and made a full recovery to be reunited with Jack.
Micha explained “Milo is not only a part of the family but he is my son’s best friend. Jack is 7 year old, Autistic and severely dyslexic.
Whenever he has had a tough day at school or in general our dog Mylo senses this and just by sitting beside Jack, he gets a lot of comfort from this. Jack isn’t fond of a lot of contact so Mylo is privileged. On days when Jack doesn’t want to leave the house, with Mylo by his side he is more willing to do so. Jack was 8 months old when I got Mylo so they have grown up together. All the children at school argue over who is Mylo’s best friend. The support from OTAC has taken a huge weight off my shoulders and helped my son’s best friend get the help he needed. I am forever grateful and as are Jack and Mylo.”
Caroline Johnson, General Manager at Oak Tree said, “When we heard the story of Mylo and how a simple operation could not only help Mylo but also help Jack we immediately looked to see what options were available.
As a Charity we understand how important the pet-owner bond can be for both animals and human and, where appropriate and possible, we aim to try to help keep pets in loving homes for life. In this case, one simple operation would mean that Mylo did not need to be rehomed and could remain with his family preventing him enduring the stress of the kennel environment and rehoming, and preventing unnecessary distress for Jack who relies on Mylo for support.”
“Non-routine veterinary costs are often un-budgeted for by owners and can often lead to animals being rehomed. As a Charity we would strongly advise owners consider taking out pet insurance to prevent any unnecessary stress and heartbreak. In this exceptional situation we were delighted that we were able to help keep Mylo and Jack together.”
For more information about Oak Tree Animals’ Charity’s work and how you can help, please visit www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk, contact the team on 01228 560082 or visit the Charity’s Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages.
