A Dublin dog who suffers from seizures was helped greatly recently thanks to the efforts of many TikTok fans.
Too often, we hear stories of the darker side of social media and its negative consequences, but it’s important also to know that it can make a positive difference.
One such example of the positive power that social media can have can be seen with the experience that Suman Gurung and his dog Toby had recently when fans of Toby’s TikTok videos pitched in together and raised enough money for Toby to receive treatments for his seizures.
Toby’s health issues – seizures caused by epilepsy
Toby’s owner, Suman Gurung, from Castleknock, explained Toby’s health issues saying, “Toby has seizures because of his epilepsy.
“It started last year, he had one in 2022, and this month so far, he’s had four of them. We went to the vet, and an MRI was recommended, but it costs €2,000 to €3,000.
“It’s so expensive, and other tests might be needed too. I’m so scared and frightened right now; it breaks my heart in a million pieces. Toby is a good boy; he’s my son”.
Toby the Gentleman – the most followed dog in Ireland
With over 2.5 million followers on social media, Toby the dog, or Toby the Gentleman, as often referred to, has been described as the most followed dog in Ireland.
Toby’s social media accounts have been credited with brightening up many people’s days and putting a smile on many TikTok users’ faces.
His owner Suman hopes that his famous five-year-old boxer terrier will soon be able to get back to normal health so that he can continue cheering up people thanks to his funny antics.
Speaking about the positive impact that Toby has, Suman said, “Toby connects with the people. I get thousands of people saying they love the TikToks, that their grandmother is sick, but Toby cheers them up. Kids with special needs love him, too.
“I get messages from their mams or siblings. It’s a nice thing to connect with so many people through Toby. Toby is on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube.
He’s huge; he has around 2.5 million followers overall. He’s the most followed dog in Ireland and had his own documentary on RTÉ”.
Helping other dogs – making a positive difference in many dog’s lives
After receiving almost €14,000 through the fundraiser he set up for Toby, Suman had enough money for the MRI and enough left over to start using the spare cash to help other dogs in need like Toby was.
“I work as a barman in Castleknock. We’ve helped 300 dogs in the area and abroad through Toby’s account.
“They get food for the next four to five months, their own blanket, and their own bed. Toby helps save the lives of so many dogs, and now he needs help himself. He’s getting his MRI tomorrow if he’s well enough,” Suman said.
