Epsom bulldog given second chance after life-saving rescue and surgery
A five-year-old French bulldog rescued by the RSPCA in February has made a remarkable recovery after emergency surgery, and has now found a loving new home.
From brink of death to new beginnings
It's a heartwarming tale of rescue, recovery, and redemption. Mabel, a five-year-old French bulldog from Surrey, was on the brink of death when RSPCA inspector Liz Wheeler stepped in to save her life in February.
Mabel's owners had taken her to see a vet once, but failed to follow up on recommended treatment for pyometra — a serious infection of the uterus that is common in unneutered dogs and can prove fatal if left untreated. As her condition deteriorated, inspector Wheeler managed to convince her owners to sign Mabel into RSPCA care.
"Poor Mabel was so poorly when I finally managed to convince her owners that she needed urgent, life-saving treatment," Liz explained. "Her life was hanging in the balance."
The fight for survival
When Mabel arrived at the RSPCA's Finsbury Park Hospital in London, vet Claire Formoy was immediately concerned. The young bulldog was quiet and lethargic, vomiting repeatedly and severely dehydrated. Blood test results revealed dangerously low sodium levels, raising fears of cerebral oedema — a potentially life-threatening condition where fluid collects on the brain.
There was no time to waste. Mabel was rushed into emergency surgery, where the severity of her condition became apparent. "When we operated to remove the infected uterus, I was shocked by how incredibly swollen and enlarged it was," Claire recalled. "I was surprised she made it through the operation. It was do or die for her, but thankfully, she pulled through. She's very lucky to be alive."
Recovery and a fresh start
After her surgery, Mabel was moved to the RSPCA's Leybourne Animal Centre in Kent, where animal care assistant Emma Peto provided foster care during her recovery. The transformation was remarkable — Mabel flourished, enjoying lazy days on the sofa and plenty of belly rubs.
"She really deserves a bright future after everything she's been through," Emma said warmly.
That future arrived when a wonderful new family fell in love with Mabel and gave her a permanent home. Now known as Maple, she's settling into her new life with the family who cherishes her.
A message for pet owners
Mabel's story is not just one of hope — it's also a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership. Vet Claire emphasised the benefits of neutering, which can prevent dangerous health conditions like pyometra, as well as unwanted pregnancies.
"While there are some good reasons not to have your dog neutered, we'd urge owners to speak to their vet and look into whether it's right for their individual pet," she advised.
Mabel's remarkable recovery is a testament to the dedication of the RSPCA and the power of compassionate care. From the brink of death to a loving home, this brave little bulldog has earned her second chance.
Source: Surrey bulldog 'lucky to be alive' after being rescued 'on the brink of death'