Yesterday, when I got home from work last night, I noticed that China Girl, my 15-year-old Shih Tzu, was limping. When we awoke this morning, she was unable to walk on her rear left leg, and it's been getting progressively worse today. She absolutely needs to be seen by her vet, but because I am on SSI, my budget is so tight it squeaks, and I am simply unable to afford to get her treatment.

Those of you who know us are aware of just how bonded she and I are. She was my doggie nurse and my comfort when I recovered from my cancer surgery, and until recently, she was my constant companion, going everywhere with me. As she is now a senior, she stays home more, but I find her waiting at the door every time I return.

I am trying to raise enough money as quickly as I can to get her to the vet. As of now, she is having difficulty walking, and I had to take off from my PT job (SSI only permits limited earnings) to help her go out. I carry her out and then back in and am trying to keep her still. Obviously, this is not ideal, and missing more work will result in my inability to pay my bills, which is unacceptable.

China Girl means everything to me. She is my friend, my hero, and my very favorite living thing ever. I desperately want to get her the medical attention she needs as soon as possible.