Phoebe’s Happy Tail

Phoebe was just 3 years and 11 months old when she first came into RAIN, but even something as simple as breathing was a struggle for her.

She arrived with us due to a change in family circumstances. Her previous owner made the heartbreaking but responsible decision to reach out for help when they knew they could no longer give Phoebe everything she needed. There is absolutely no judgment here — asking for help was the right thing to do.

But it quickly became clear that Phoebe needed urgent care.

Struggling to breathe

Phoebe suffered with severe Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition sadly common in flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs. Because of the way these dogs have been bred, their airways are restricted, making every breath a challenge.

When Phoebe got excited, her breathing became heavy and laboured. Sometimes it became too much for her little body and she would simply flop onto the floor, exhausted, desperately trying to catch her breath.

To imagine Phoebe’s reality was to imagine trying to live your life breathing through a straw.

More than just breathing

Alongside her breathing difficulties, Phoebe arrived with painful ear infections, inflamed skin and severe allergies that left her constantly uncomfortable and itchy. She needed veterinary care, including steroids to help calm her skin, and daily cleaning of her facial folds to prevent infection.

But her breathing was — and remained — the most urgent concern.

Life-changing surgery

Our vets confirmed that Phoebe needed BOAS surgery to widen her airways and give her the chance to breathe properly for the first time in her life.

The surgery cost £1,019 through Animal Trust, alongside ongoing treatment for her skin and ears. For a small rescue like RAIN, these costs were significant — but Phoebe’s wellbeing came first.

Thanks to your incredible support, we were able to say yes.

Phoebe received her life-changing surgery, and it completely transformed her future.

Recovery begins

Phoebe recovered safely with us at the centre after her operation.

She needed to take things very slowly while her throat and airways healed, as swelling was expected after surgery. Full recovery took time and careful monitoring.

But even in those early days, we saw something incredible — Phoebe was breathing more comfortably.

Something she had struggled with for so long was finally becoming easier.

Phoebe’s forever home

And then came the happiest chapter of her journey…

Phoebe found her forever home.

Her new family gave her everything she had always needed — patience, understanding, and so much love.

They shared this beautiful update with us:

“She’s added a new lease of life into the house. She’s gentle, affectionate, great with kids and just wants to play with every dog.

She’s made us all so happy. Her walks are getting longer, and she’s even sleeping fully on her back now… sometimes not even snoring!

She’s fitted in like she’s always been with us. Everyone stops to fuss over her! I cannot thank you all enough. You’ve made us all so happy, and Phoebe seems really happy too 😊

Emma and Sophie, members of the RAIN Welfare Team,  have been absolutely amazing. Sophie was so understanding, professional and kind. She made us feel welcome and heard and was always happy to answer my questions. You can truly see the love you have for all the animals. It was a fantastic, positive experience — Sophie, you are a credit to RAIN. You’ve made our family complete.”

Why we do what we do

Phoebe’s journey is exactly why RAIN exists.

Because no dog should struggle for every breath. And because, with the right care and support, lives can be completely transformed.

Phoebe didn’t just receive treatment — she received a second chance.

And now she gets to live the life she was always meant to have.

Thank you

This story was only possible because of you.

Your support gave Phoebe her surgery, her recovery, and her future.

From all of us — and from Phoebe — thank you for helping change her life.