Tamworth’s Simmonds family have taken the sentiment one step further, investing thousands of dollars to save the life of their beloved family dog.

Cooper was rushed to South Tamworth Animal Hospital on May 8 after falling ill eating sultanas 10 days previously, which have proven toxic for some dogs.

The five-year-old shitzu’s failing kidneys had brought on renal failure and after a hurried family conference with veterinarian Dr Peter Best, the Simmonds were told Cooper might die.

Fortunately for the Simmonds, Dr Best had access to a haemodialysis unit at the animal hospital, one of only two such services in Australia.

Cooper has become the first patient to receive the treatment at the veterinary practice and after a four-week stay and expensive dialysis treatment, he will go home today.

“He’s a little fighter,” owner Jo Simmonds said. “We just knew we had to do everything to bring him home.”

The veterinary practice set up the haemodialysis unit last year, but have had few patients due to the costly nature of the treatment and the fact only certain patients are considered suitable.

A pet requiring the treatment may cost its owner anywhere from $4000 to $10,000, according to Dr Best, and the treatment is labour-intensive and time-consuming.

The Simmonds were told how expensive the treatment was, but said it only took a few seconds for the family to decide to save his life.

“My husband, Peter, said ‘yes, we have to do it’,” Mrs Simmonds said.

The Tamworth mum said Cooper was the king of their household and that even though he belonged to daughter Abbie, he was her baby.

“He’s not just a dog, he makes me happy and pulls at my heartstrings,” Mrs Simmonds said. “I’m so grateful to the team at South Tamworth for saving him. I couldn’t imagine our household without him.”