Animal lovers rally to save dog with rare heart defect

Animal lovers are rallying to help save a dog with a rare heart condition, organising for it to be flown from regional WA to Sydney tomorrow for life-saving heart surgery.

“Frankie” or Francesca, a one-year-old greyhound lurcher cross, has been diagnosed by Murdoch University specialists as having a rare heart condition – three heart chambers.

Carer Chris Maddison said, left untreated, the dog would die but with surgery was expected to enjoy a full life.

Frankie came to the attention of Geraldton Dog Rescue and local veterinarians after wandering into someone’s property in Geraldton, in WA’s Mid West.

“It’s an amazing case of surviving against all odds,” Ms Maddison said.

Carers have set up a Facebook page “Frankie’s Awfully Big Adventure” along with a gofundme appeal “Frankies Heart Surgery” to help with costs.

Travel and medical expenses are expected to total about $6000.