Help Baxter Get Life-Saving Surgery

Hi, my name is Tonya, and I’m here on behalf of my best friend and constant companion, Baxter.

Baxter isn’t just a dog—he’s my heart in a fur coat. For years, he’s been my loyal shadow, my protector, and my comfort through some of life’s hardest days. Through multiple organ transplants, the sudden and unexpected passing of my significant other, and so many other life events, he carried me just by being with me. He’s full of personality, always offering a sassy side-eyed look, barking at inopportune times, and incessantly squeaking his favorite toy with reckless abandon. He’s part of our little trio—“The Chaos Crew”—and the glue that holds it all together.

Recently, Baxter was diagnosed with a large liver mass. After countless tests and consultations with specialists, we've been told that surgery offers his best chance—not just to survive, but to thrive. The surgeon believes it’s possible to remove the mass and give Baxter more quality time, but it needs to happen soon. Hepatocellular Carcinoma is slow-growing, but can rupture without warning and any chance he would have to continue to enjoy life will be ripped away suddenly.

I want to give Baxter every chance he deserves. He’s still full of life, even if lately he’s been more tired and clearly not feeling like himself. He looks at me like he wants to stay, even if he says it with his signature sassy side-eye, and I owe it to him to try everything I can.

But the reality is, this surgery is expensive. Between the CT scan, the specialist care, surgery, and post-op recovery, the costs are expensive. I’ve secured some funding on my own, but it’s not enough. And so, I’m reaching out—humbly and hopefully.

If Baxter has ever made you smile through a photo, a story, or if you simply understand the bond between a human and their heart dog, I’m asking for your help. Every dollar brings us closer to giving him a second chance. Every share helps more than you know. And every kind word lifts our spirits during this heavy time.

Baxter deserves to keep living the life he loves—sniffing the breeze, trotting beside me on wooded trails, and sprawling out stealing my spot on the bed. Please help me give him that chance.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading, for caring, and for believing in love strong enough to fight for.

With gratitude and hope,

Tonya & Baxter