Support Sammey in His Fight Against Cancer

*Update 10/25*

We can pretty much confirm Sammey has has a blood vessel in his spinal cord rupture, the effects of it are being shown in his inability to urinate and defacate. The rupture is most likely due to a fast acting cancer, Hemangiosarcoma, the prognosis is poor. We are doing everything we can to get him to be able to perform normal bodily functions, but he is still the most happy and cooperative boy. We have seen our primary vet countless times this week, the neurologist who performed the MRI (his opinion is that this cancer is not curable with radiation or surgical operation), and also our eastern medicine vet who prescribed some natural herbal remedies and acupuncture once a week. We are continuously keeping in mind Sammey’s quality of life and seeing some improvement as he goes. He is set to see an oncologist for a consult on 10/28, assuming his quality of life is still good by then. They are going to want to run another in depth test (i’m not fully sure what, but we discussed fasting him for anesthesia) and then if approved they said we can start radiation as early as 10/29 and eventually move to chemotherapy. At this point we are hopeful in getting at least a couple of good weeks with the boy so long as his bodily functions normalize for him to not have a long term catheter or continuous enema treatments (we don’t see either of those as long term options and do not want that quality for the best boy ever). We are going to keep him comfortable and give him every bit of love and adventure he deserves. We have already spent somewhere around 8,000 (slightly more i believe) for medical treatment alone, not including any supplements, treats, beds, and anything else to keep him comfortable. We are currently looking for an end-of-life photographer to commemorate the sweetest boy and our bond. Again, any support helps.

*Original Post Below*

Sammey has been in my life since 2010, found on the streets of Barstow. He has gone through countless foster homes with me and has been by my side through the ups and downs. He has been my motivation for everything and truly is the most selfless soul. He’s the dog that makes people who don’t care for dogs love dogs. He is my entire world and has so much life and energy left to give, but his body is declining with age.

He is now in the position where he needs severe medical assistance, and it is going to be a costly road to get him the help he needs. He has been declining neurologically due to a spinal issue. We still do not have all the details because an MRI is needed to give us the full conclusion of treatment. So far, he has had a Senior Profile (including a CBC and Urinalysis), x-rays, ultrasound, and a Degenerative Myelopathy test sent out (pending results). After that, we have spent just under $2k. We now have a referral to see a Neurologist to get the full okay for an MRI, which can range anywhere between $3,000 and $4,500. After the MRI, if surgery is applicable, we will be going through with it. I cannot accurately range the price for surgery as we do not have a full diagnosis until the MRI results are received.

He is starting Cold Laser Therapy, Electromagnetic Therapy, Hydrotherapy, and Acupuncture until the appointment with the Neurologist is fully set. I am expressing his bladder multiple times a day as he is experiencing a decline and is unable to empty his own bladder. He is on countless supplements but is in need of other things to make his life easier and more comfortable, such as a ramp to get on our bed, a hind leg lift, toe grips, and plush anti-slip mats to help with traction.

Any amount helps, any sharing helps. We are going to do anything in our power and spare no expense to help this sweet, gentle soul. He truly is the most special dog and would give tons of kisses and support to anyone who could help. Thank you in advance from our family <3