Torquay rescue dog makes full recovery after life-threatening illness

A Torquay woman has shared a joyful update after her rescue dog Gracie made a full recovery from a severe bacterial infection that left her critically ill shortly after arriving in the UK.

Julia adopted the 13-month-old dog from Macedonia in early December, but within 24 hours Gracie became seriously unwell, suffering laboured breathing, fluid on her lungs, and what vets described as a severe and aggressive bacterial infection. She spent several nights in intensive care at Dart Vale Hospital in Newton Abbot before being moved to Amity Vets.

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On 9 December 2025, Gracie’s condition was so critical that Julia feared she might have to let her go. “I asked if there was anything that could be done, but the vets were unsure… They suggested giving her three antibiotics and steroids at once, but I didn’t have the money,” Julia said. After using all her savings, she borrowed an additional £3,000 to pay for the care.

A JustGiving fund was set up, which raised £4,200 from supporters across Torbay, covering the remainder of her £8,600 vet bill. Julia said: “Without that fund I don’t know what I’d have done. It saved her life.”

Gracie gradually responded to treatment and returned home later that week, still on medication. Over the following month, she fully recovered, gaining 1.2kg and regaining her energy. Julia described her as “full of beans and a bit bonkers… a different dog. She’s clever, lively, and has given me more than I can say after a horrendous 12 months.”

Julia added: “After everything that’s happened this year, she needed me and I needed her. The kindness and support from everyone in Torbay has been overwhelming, and I’ll always be so grateful.”