Hello, all.

I received the devastating news last week that my sweet puppy Ruth has a heart defect called patent ductus arteriosus. This must be corrected or she will go into heart failure, not a question of if but when. She is not even two years old yet and already has heart disease.

The cardiologist started her on Vetmedin heart medication immediately and says she will likely live out a normal lifespan with a high quality of life post-surgery. The only obstacle is that this procedure is very expensive. To do it near where we live within the extended New York metropolitan area will be $10,000 if everything goes perfectly, and possibly over $12,000 if there are any complications.

We have the option to go to Purdue's teaching hospital to do it for around $6,000. That will also mean gas for over 24 hours of driving round trip, a pet-friendly hotel for a minimum of five days, and a week of missed work.

Ruth, Leia, and I have been so blessed to find the most wonderful community of dog lovers here in New York City, many of whom have asked if I would be starting this fundraiser. To each and every one of you - I am overcome by your compassion and your generosity. You have proven my belief that animal people are the most kind, loving people in the world.

Still, many of you in my extended circle knew me when Leia first came into my life and have loved her along with me from the beginning. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard someone say, “I’m not really a dog person, but I love her.” At 15 years old, she’s still kickin’! No health problems to speak of except for arthritis. We rely on supplements and acupuncture to manage her achy pain and keep her feeling good day to day. For those of you who have known and loved her, I’ve added suggestions below if you would like to help by sponsoring any of her needs. I never could have imagined my sweet puppy needing more expensive and immediate care than my old lady, and it would be devastating to have to lower the budget for Leia’s support so that Ruth can get her life-saving procedure.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to every person who reads this, donates, or shares with someone who is in a position to help.