A HEARTBROKEN dog owner and newly-qualified nurse is raising money to try to help her beloved dog, who has become ill.

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Currently working on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic, Shannon Kelly, from Reading, said her dog Brandi brightens up her days when she gets back from work.

Brandi, a 13-year-old staffy, became unwell during the bank holiday weekend.

Shannon said: "She is the most loving loyal dog you would every meet.

"She loves people and other animals.

"She was being sick, very lethargic, diarrhoea and not able to walk.

"Since then she has had multiple trips to the vets to try and diagnose and treat the issue.

"Like any pet, they are part of your family."

Brandi has had blood tests and scans as well as further tests.

She is also currently admitted at the vets on fluids and medication.

Shannon said: "If the chest X-ray does not show anything she will need further investigation such as endoscopy.

"Brandi has so much love to give and brightens my day up when I come home from a long day at work with just her tail wagging.

"I know times are hard for everyone at the miner and money is tight.

"It’s a hard thing to do to ask people for help - but I would do honestly anything for Brandi.

"I don’t know what I would do if we lost her."

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Her treatment at the vets will cost Shannon around £600, and Shannon has started a fundraiser to help cover the costs.

"Typically, I have always had Brandi insured", Shannon added.

"A few days before she started becoming poorly her insurance was due for renewal so I decided to changed to a different provider.

"Because of this she was still in her 14-day period, where you can’t claim.

"So unfortunately I am unable to claim on insurance.

Reading Chronicle:

"Brandi is stable at the moment and still poorly. We have to consider all options.

"This also included putting her to sleep depending on the outcome of the investigations.

"I’m really hoping it does not come to this.

"Any help is greatly appreciated so we can do all the testing and treatment.

"Hopefully we can get Brandi better and home with us where she belongs. It’s absolutely devastating seeing her so poorly."

To donate to Brandi's fundraising page, click here.