Viral photo helps arthritic dog get treatment

A photograph posted online of a man cradling his 19-year-old arthritic dog in Lake Superior, Canada, prompted a flood of unsolicited donations that allowed him to extend his pet’s life.

John Unger had been planning to have Schoep put down at the end of July, but after receiving thousands of dollars in donations from those who saw the photo of him wading in the lake with the dog, Unger was able to afford expensive joint laser treatments for Schoep that will reduce pain and swelling and extend his life.

Unger said: “Schoep is doing incredible right now. The therapies that people have donated - it’s like turning the clock back a year and a half.”

Unger has also set up a foundation to help families on low incomes care for their ageing dogs, having received unsolicited donations amounting to “more money than we would reasonably spend on Schoep’s care” and Schoep’s Legacy Foundation has raised more than $25,000.

The photo was taken by Unger’s friend, photographer Hannah Stonehouse Hudson, who posted it on Facebook with the caption: “This 19-year-old [is] being cradled in his father’s arms last night in Lake Superior.

“Schoep falls asleep every night when he is carried into the lake. The buoyancy of the water soothes his arthritic bones. Lake Superior is very warm right now, so the temperature of the water is perfect. I was so happy I got to capture this moment for John. Bu the way, John rescued Schoep as an 8-month-old puppy, and he’s been by his side through many adventures.”

Hudson has been selling prints of the photo to benefit Schoep’s foundation, and a page dedicated to Schoep and his owner on Facebook has more than 20,000 fans.