Jo Shaw was in shock when she found her 3-year-old Boxer, Mack, lying paralyzed outside in their Melbourne yard. Soon, she realized what had happened. Her 2-year-old daughter, Carmen, had been playing nearby when their dog spotted a venomous tiger snake. Mack jumped into action to keep the snake away from his beloved toddler, who was jumping on a trampoline less than two meters away. Tiger snakes are native to Australia and their venom is highly potent, with a mortality rate between 40-60% if left untreated. Unfortunately, Mack suffered several bite wounds from the snake.
Thankfully, antivenom is readily available and Mack was treated at a local animal hospital. Although his life was saved, he has suffered kidney damage and a bill upwards of $6,000. This is no small payment to make, and Shaw first tried to sell a favorite classic car of hers. Fortunately, friends urged her to set up a GoFundMe page and the response was overwhelming.
Not only did the Shaw family gather enough money to cover Mack’s veterinary expenses, they exceeded it! Those that saw the campaign, even the ones that have never met the pooch and his family, were willing to donate to help Mack fight his battle. Just 5 days ago the Shaws posted an update that Mack is on the mend, and although it’s a long road to full recovery, he is wagging his tail and happy to see his family.
The Shaws have been very thankful for the generosity of all who have donated to help save Mack’s life. We’re happy to hear that he’s doing well and that no one else was injured by the venomous snake in their yard. (The snake did not survive the ordeal, as Mack wanted to be sure that no one else could be bitten.) You can see updates on the Shaw’s GoFundMe page.
