30/05/2026
🐾 Never Be Afraid to Ask for a Second Opinion 🐾
Bonnie has been suffering with a condition called CUPS, a painful inflammatory condition affecting the mouth and gums.
Last week, a vet at the PDSA suggested that it may be kinder to euthanise her than continue treatment.
I sat there in complete shock.
In my head I was thinking, "You don't see the same dog that I have the privilege of waking up to every morning. You don't see Bonnie hurtling down the beach. You don't see her running like a greyhound, wagging her tail with excitement. You don't see her happily socialising with other dogs and enjoying life."
🥰 Because that's the Bonnie I know.
When I got home, I spoke to my family. We were all devastated.
Like many families, everyone has their own financial commitments and responsibilities. We talked about trying to find a way to fund a second opinion because none of us felt ready to make such a final decision without exploring every option available.
Then something unexpected happened.
A very kind friend quietly stepped forward and offered to help. There were no conditions, no expectations, no desire for recognition. Simply an act of generosity from someone who was in a position to help and chose to do so.
Their kindness gave Bonnie the opportunity for a second opinion, and for that I will always be grateful.
Years ago, when I worked as a holistic dog groomer, I trained in animal Reiki and achieved my Level 2 qualification. I never continued to Master level. Since becoming involved with my local Baptist church two years ago, I haven't practised Reiki in the traditional sense, but I have always believed in the power of prayer, gratitude, compassion and healing touch.
I practise holistic massage, Swedish massage and sound therapy with tuning forks, and have received wonderful feedback from many clients over the years.
During this past week, I have prayed morning and night. I have journalled endlessly, expressed gratitude for Bonnie's companionship, and asked for healing and wisdom.
Yesterday, we attended our second-opinion appointment.
The vet could barely hear the heart murmur that has been discussed throughout Bonnie's life. More importantly, after just one week of treatment with steroids, her mouth and gums had improved dramatically. The inflammation was minimal, and the vet was clear that euthanasia was not appropriate at this stage.
Whether it was the medication, the prayers, the love, the healing, or a combination of everything, I cannot say.
What I do know is this:
🐾 Bonnie came home smiling.
🐾 I came home smiling.
🐾 My family came home smiling.
As an antenatal teacher, I teach my clients to use the BRAINS decision-making tool:
B – BenefitsR – RisksA – AlternativesI – InstinctN – Nothing (What happens if we do nothing?)S – Smile 😁
When faced with one of the hardest decisions imaginable, I found myself using the very same framework.
I looked at the benefits.I looked at the risks.But most importantly, I explored the alternatives.
And because I did, Bonnie is still here, enjoying life.
To the friend who made Bonnie's second opinion possible, thank you. Your kindness, generosity and compassion have meant more than words can express.
Sometimes the greatest blessings arrive quietly, without fanfare or recognition, and remind us just how much goodness there is in the world.
And perhaps the lesson in all of this is simple:
Never be afraid to ask questions.Never be afraid to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.And never be afraid to seek a second opinion.
❤️🐾
