Milla

Support dog Milla’s poorly paw is treated by PDSA vets.

28-year-old Marilin from London is blind and has expressed her gratitude for PDSA, which has made vet care affordable for her rescue dog, Milla.

As soon as Marilin welcomed three-year-old Pomeranian, Milla, into her home she knew she needed to register her with a vet. Marilin is blind and unable to work and discovered her beloved pet was eligible for treatment at PDSA after her friends informed her of the charitable service.

Marilin said: “I'm on benefits and couldn’t afford a private vet, so once I found out I was eligible, I registered her straight away. A few months later, she jumped off a step and hurt her paw.

“Thankfully, I was able to book her in for an appointment at my local PDSA Pet Hospital and get the care she needed. Unfortunately, Milla has also inherited some breed-related problems, which means she has had two surgeries this year and ongoing care to improve her quality of life. This is extremely worrying but knowing I have PDSA’s help is invaluable.”

Since being registered at New Cross PDSA Pet Hospital, The Philippa and George Adams Centre, Marilin has had many positive experiences with the team. She said: “My experiences with PDSA have been amazing. When the paw accident happened, I was scared, worried and convinced myself that it was somehow my fault. And I was worried that the vet would reprimand me and think I’d hurt her because I’m visually impaired. In the past, I have encountered scepticism from others about being able to own a pet and take care of them properly. But the team were fantastic and never doubted my ability to look after her.”

Thanks to the helpful and friendly staff at the New Cross Pet Hospital, Marilin is able to give her furry companion the care she needs, all while making sure that Marilin is comfortable as well. She continued: “The team at are incredible at helping me as a blind person. During our first appointment, they gave me a collar with a bell so I wouldn’t lose track of Milla with her injured paw. After both the surgeries, the vet nurse showed me the wound in detail, helping me identify if anything was wrong by touch instead of sight, and taking a photo on my phone in case I needed to check with someone else later.

“They have also spent time cutting up the small pills for me and even adapting a syringe so I could measure her medication correctly. The receptionists and other staff are always kind and helpful. I didn’t know my way around the area at first and they offer help finding my cab outside. They also help me find a seat inside as well. Being blind, I truly appreciate how the staff go above and beyond to help me.”

The staff at New Cross Pet Hospital are happy to help Marilin and Milla. PDSA Senior Vet Surgeon Amelia Wilder said: “We believe every pet deserves the best care, and that extends to ensuring their owners feel fully supported and comfortable throughout their visit. Marilin and Milla's bond is special, and we're always happy to go the extra mile to make things as easy as possible for them."

Milla and Marilin truly have a special bond together - they are always there for each other. Marilin said: “When I first got her, I was having a very tough time with my mental health, but she has brought me so much joy. Milla motivates me to get up, stay awake, to smile and keep going.

“Even though Milla isn’t a trained assistance dog, she has stopped me from walking in front of a car a few times and often helps get us back on track when I’ve managed to get lost in the park. She loves to show off her excellent memory for routes. She loves to show off her excellent memory for routes and her ability to walk in a straight line, which I can't do very well. She is my little shadow and would spend every minute glued to me if she could.

“I’m autistic and sometimes feel overwhelmed and exhausted at the end of a day. Milla doesn’t mind if we sit in silence, as long as the belly rub tax is paid.  Milla’s constant joy and happiness is rewarding because it shows me that I’ve created a good life for us and even if things aren’t perfect, we do our best.

“I became homeless not long after Milla hurt her paw. Even though our situation was extremely complicated, having the routine of her care and her presence was grounding. The worry was easier to deal with as I wasn’t alone. The routine of her recovery and care, with help from PDSA, kept me from falling apart.”

Marilin is extremely grateful for PDSA’s support. She said: “The staff have been amazing and helped me however they could. Without PDSA, I wouldn’t have been able to afford Milla’s care or provide her with the ongoing treatment she needs. It's a great cause that helps keep people and pets together.”

Cost of Milla’s treatment (Jan 2026): £2927.43

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity. Through our 49 Pet Hospitals and Pet Care scheme, we save the lives of poorly pets who would otherwise be left untreated.

Every year, we treat over 430,000 pets. Without us, emergency cases like Milla's would be left untreated and many pets could lose their lives or be separated from families who love them.

We wouldn’t be here for dogs like Milla without your support. Please consider donating today.

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