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UPDATED 06/27: Camp’s Fight Is Over We’re Completely Heartbroken
It’s with shattered hearts that we share the news we never wanted to write: we said our final goodbye to our sweet boy, Camp, last night.
Over the past two weeks, Camp endured more than any puppy ever should.
Just 13 days ago, our happy, playful 6-month-old golden retriever suddenly fell critically ill. Emergency vets discovered a life-threatening intestinal blockage made of sticks, wood chips, and debris. He underwent major surgery to remove 20% of his intestines and spent three nights in the hospital recovering. We were terrified, but full of hope—and so grateful to bring him home.
But just 36 hours later, Camp declined again. He stopped eating, began drooling from nausea, and regurgitated anything we gave him. We rushed him back to the ER, where he was re-admitted for more intensive care. When his symptoms didn’t improve, we were told the only remaining option was exploratory surgery—even if they might find nothing.
We said yes. Because Camp deserved every chance.
That second surgery revealed dozens of adhesions (scar tissue) twisted around his intestines, restricting his motility. The vet carefully broke them apart, and miraculously, just 12 hours later, Camp began eating again. He had energy. He wagged his tail. He finally seemed like he was turning a corner.
But that hope was short-lived.
Just two days after coming home, Camp crashed again. The adhesions had likely returned, just as aggressively. Despite doing everything possible—despite round-the-clock care, medications, rest, and follow-up—we had reached the end of the road. There were no more options. His little body had fought as hard as it could.
We held him, loved him, and kissed him as we said goodbye. He passed peacefully, knowing how deeply he was loved.
We are broken. But we’re also so proud of our boy. Through two surgeries, hospital stays, feeding struggles, countless medications, and days of pain, Camp never stopped being sweet, gentle, and trusting. He gave us everything he had.
The cost of his care has now surpassed $19,000—but that fight was made possible because of you. Your donations, your kind words, your prayers and shares gave us time with him that we otherwise wouldn’t have had. For that, we are endlessly grateful.
Camp changed our lives in six short months. We will love and miss him forever.
Thank you for loving him too.
—Camp’s Mom & Dad ❤️
Venmo: @em-italiano