Chris & Moose: Facing a $8,500 Vet Bill

Hi, I'm Chris Maki, proud dog mom to Moose, my sweet and loyal best friend.

On Sunday night, our lives were turned upside down when Moose suddenly experienced bloat. In this life-threatening condition, the stomach fills with gas and could possibly twist, cutting off blood flow and trapping air, food, and fluids.

At 11:45 p.m., we rushed to the emergency vet. Thanks to the quick action of the incredible vet techs and doctors, Moose was stabilized. They intubated him and managed to relieve the pressure in his stomach. Still, X-rays revealed a more serious issue: foreign objects were lodged in his small intestine, requiring immediate surgery.

The initial ER bill was $5,366.71, which I covered with my credit card. Later that night, I was told Moose would need enterotomy surgery — a delicate procedure to remove the blockages — quoted at $10,000 (separate).

I was devastated. Faced with the unthinkable choice between saying goodbye to Moose or going into severe debt, I searched for alternatives. Thankfully, Aquebogue Veterinary Hospital in Riverhead, NY, stepped in. They cap their surgeries to make sure the financial burden isn't as severe. They performed the surgery that very night, and Moose pulled through like the brave little fighter he is.

He’s now recovering at the hospital and is expected to come home soon. We got the final total for the surgery and hospital stay of $4,000. 

All in, we’re looking at over $8,500 in unexpected veterinary costs.

If you're able to donate, any amount, however small, it would mean the world to us. Moose is more than a pet. He’s family. He’s my heart. And truthfully, he’s saved me more times than I can count. Now it’s my turn to fight for him.

Thank you for reading, supporting, and sharing.

With love and gratitude,

Chris & Moose