Leo The Brave

Dear friends and pupper lovers, 
Our little buddy Leo was found down at home on Friday, unable to walk and seemingly paralyzed. This was devastating for Gabe and so frightening to all who know and love them both.

After an MRI and a lot of worry at the emergency vet, Leo was diagnosed with Intervertebral degenerative disk disease (IVDD). There is no preventative medicine or any supplement that can fix it. He has a disease. He had one ruptured disc which caused the spinal cord pinching and compression, rendering him paralyzed. Without  treatment Leo was certain to have permanent paralysis and lose totally function of his hind legs and bladder/bowel function. As a young 3 year old that would just be devastating to his quality of life.

Leo is not simply just a playful, young buddy. He’s a friend to all both human and canine and a son to Gabe. The decision to proceed with surgery wasn’t a decision at all. The choice between pain, paralysis and to never be able to enjoy life as he once knew was not an option. Leo was treated at one of only two specialty neurology-surgery centers for dogs  that cater for serious emergencies and weekend emergencies. As we all know, surgery of any kind is beyond expensive and the out of pocket costs have been astronomical. 

The spinal surgery went very well and Leo is headed home today with Gabe to begin a long recovery. He’s already walking a little bit with a lot of help and support but his journey back to health is just beginning. 

The goal of this fundraiser is to take some of the massive financial burden from Gabe for a decision he had no choice but to make. He’s a young dog and finances should never be a reason not to do everything you can for the pets you love. 

Thank you in advance for any and all donations you are able to make.  Gabe has been so appreciative to all those who have shown kindness and support during this really difficult time. 

Love to all xo