We recently received news that Tater Tot, our sweet 6-year-old Rottie, has bone cancer. A week ago, we noticed he wasn't putting any pressure on his back right leg, so we took him to the vet- expecting something like a pulled muscle or an ingrown nail, and unfortunately, it was so much worse than we could have ever imagined. Tater Tot has been with us since he was a puppy and has brought so much joy and life into our family of 5. If you've ever met him, you know that he is a giant teddy bear who loves cuddles and treats; and if you know us, you know that we are absolutely obsessed with him.

His type of cancer (Osteosarcomas) is fast-growing and fatal if not treated; the vet told us the devastating news that without treatment, his life expectancy plunges to 4-6 months. Osteosarcoma develops into highly aggressive, painful tumors, meaning the most effective way to treat this cancer is to amputate at the hip, followed by chemotherapy. Amputation is the first cause of action; the vet believes that Tater Tot would adjust quickly and well after amputation, as he has already gotten used to not putting any pressure on his right leg. After recovery, he would start treatments of radiation and chemotherapy to ensure that his cancer does not spread. With treatment, that heartbreaking 4-6 months prognosis can extend to more happy years with us.

We love him so much and don't want to lose him; he still has so much life to live- so many toys to play with, balls to catch- so many plates of food to steal! Unfortunately, vet bills are expensive, which is why we're asking the help of our friends, family and community to help Tater Tot get the treatment he needs.

Thank you so much; we appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

-The Pavloff Family

If you have any questions regarding vet bills and treatment plans, you can contact us directly.