Grizzly Deserves A Pain-Free Life!

My name is Jessica, and I'm starting this page for my dog and best friend, Grizzly.

He was born with hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament disease in both hind legs, as well one hind leg is 4" shorter than the rest. By the time he came into my life he was 3 years old and heavy. Grizzly was at 150 lbs, he's now under 135. I've been able to get his weight down through swimming and walks.

Unfortunately, he literally has to be on leash all the time outside because he throws out his knee (the right one is the worst) running or getting excited. After an easy walk, his recovery period is 3 days. After a walk to the pond, a short swim, and back, he has to rest for at least 4-7 days before he can walk on his legs without intense pain. He gets the steroidal pain medication Meloxicam when it's really bad, but I've not been able to consistently afford it, as well it's not healthy for him to be on forever.

When Grizzly was in my dad's care, after examinations, x-rays, and scans by various veterinary professionals, the final quotes for the surgeries he needs to live a normal life came to $3500 a leg. First they would do the right hind one, then when the left hind one is bad enough they would operate on it. My dad did nothing, and then left the Grizzly when my parents divorced. I have since taken on responsibility for him.

This is the most energetic, strong, intense, life-filled, loving animal I've ever known. He hasn't been able to expend his energy fully since he was a puppy. When he does blow up, and he does, it's bittersweet. He will have the best few minutes, even seconds, bolting around enjoying himself, like the energetic dog he is, to then have to spend sometimes two weeks stuck inside or on a short leash because he's caused so much damage to his legs.

This dog needs these surgeries. I would stay by his side every second of his recovery to make sure he heals properly. I'm just at a loss for how to rally this much money together. I'm beyond broke, and that won't be changing quickly. I just want him to be able to function without pain. He's only three, and has more life and vigour in him than most of the puppies we meet on our adventures. He's the centre of the crowd, wherever we go, with his happy attitude and huge stature.

Grizzly breaks my heart, and brings light into it, every day. Thank you, if you managed to read this all. As well, thank you for any support possible. We will get there somehow!

Jess & Grizzly