Community Support Helps Retired Military Dog Manic Through Emergency Surgery

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community, including donations raised through Santa Pics at the Club, Cronulla RSL has been able to support Manic, our much loved honorary four legged member, during a critical time.

In early January, Manic underwent life threatening emergency surgery to correct Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, commonly known as GDV. This is a critical condition where the stomach rapidly fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to the stomach and potentially the spleen. Without immediate veterinary intervention, GDV can be fatal.

Manic is a retired Military Working Dog who served as a Combat Assault Dog with the Australian Defence Force, including with 2 Commando Regiment and Tactical Assault Group East. Following multiple tours of duty supporting Australian and Coalition Forces, Manic was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of his exceptional service.

Thanks to the quick thinking of his family and the exceptional care provided by the team at Veterinary Specialists of Sydney, Manic has received the best possible outcome under incredibly serious circumstances. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the VSOS team for their compassion and expertise in caring for our veteran boy.

When Manic retired from service, the ADF’s formal duty of care ended. Due to his age, pet insurance was not an option, meaning significant and ongoing veterinary costs rest entirely with his family. This is exactly why Cronulla RSL has been fundraising over recent years, to ensure we can stand beside retired service animals and their families when support is most needed.

We are proud to support Manic and his family throughout his recovery and beyond, and we acknowledge the vital work of organisations such as Working Paws Australia and Australian Working Animal Memorial Organisation, who continue to advocate for the welfare of working dogs across Australia.

Our community support makes moments like this possible. From attending events, to donating, to taking part in initiatives like Santa Pics, every contribution helps create real impact.

Manic is now home and recovering well, after recieving the needed rest and recovery, surrounded by the family who are relieved and grateful to have him back where he belongs.