Help Save Cosmo from His Liver Shunt

We welcomed Cosmo into our lives at just 8 weeks old, and from day one, he fit into our family like he was always meant to be here. He’s a joyful, bubbly little soul who’s never met a stranger — every person and every pup is a new best friend.

On May 23rd, Cosmo escaped our fenced backyard and went on what we can only describe as the adventure of a lifetime. For nine long hours, we searched tirelessly — driving through neighborhoods, contacting shelters and vets, and posting reward flyers. Thanks to a kind neighbor’s call, we finally brought him home.

But something was terribly wrong.

Cosmo came back lethargic and visibly ill. On May 31st, he was rushed to the emergency vet, where his blood work revealed he was in full liver failure. His ALT levels were 242 (normal 10–125) and his ALKP was 520 (normal 23–212). He was unresponsive, weak, and fighting for his life.

After stabilizing him, we continued testing. On June 4th, his bile acids test confirmed the worst: Cosmo was born with a congenital portosystemic liver shunt — a serious defect that prevents his liver from properly filtering toxins like ammonia from his blood. His bile acids levels were dangerously high: his pre-test result was 250.8 (normal is 0–14.9) and his post-test result was 217.7 (normal is 0–29.9).

This build-up of ammonia is now poisoning his brain and nervous system, causing heartbreaking neurological symptoms: sudden blindness, hearing loss, slack jaw, confusion, and trouble with coordination. Every day we watch as our once-energetic puppy struggles to find comfort and do simple things like run and play. Without treatment, this condition is fatal.

Cosmo is currently on five medications, twice a day, to help manage his symptoms and stabilize him for surgery. Even with this intensive medical management, he’s already endured so much pain — and every day is a fight.

The good news is: surgery can save his life. It can allow his liver to function properly, clearing the toxins and giving Cosmo the chance to run, play, and live a long, happy life — chasing balls, making friends, and celebrating birthdays for years to come.

The bad news is: the surgery is expensive — far more than we can manage on our own. We’re humbly asking for your help to give Cosmo a real shot at life.

Cosmo is deeply loved. He’s already fought so hard to stay with us. With your support, we can give him the care he needs to reach his first birthday — and far beyond.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for any help you can give.