Give Ellie Maye & Her Veteran a Second Chance

Hi, I’m Ellie Maye—and I need your help.

My human is a retired, disabled veteran who’s given everything to serve others. He’s proud, humble, and never asks for help. When he couldn’t afford a trained service dog, he found healing in a gentle mastiff—my older sister.

She was his emotional support and constant companion. Losing her broke his heart. That’s when I came into his life.

I was found as a starving stray, barely seven months old, skin and bones despite being the size of a full-grown mastiff.

The Humane Society took me in—and then my human rescued me. He gave me love, safety, and a home. For the first time, I belonged. We healed each other.

But last month, I slipped on the kitchen floor and injured my hip. Days later, I slipped again—worse—and damaged both hind legs. I can’t chase squirrels, run, climb stairs, or even jump on the bed to cuddle like I used to. After $900 in vet visits and tests, we learned I tore both my CCLs (like ACLs in people). The only hope is TPLO surgery, a procedure with a strong success rate—85–90% of dogs make a full recovery. But it’s costly: $4,500–$6,000 per leg, not including post-op care. My human maxed out his CareCredit just trying to get answers. He’s done everything he can.

Now, I’m asking for help—for both of us.

All funds will be used for her surgery and recovery and if we’re lucky enough to raise more than what’s needed, the extra will be donated to the Nebraska Humane Society, to help other animals like me get a second chance.

Thank you for reading, sharing, or donating. You're not just helping a dog—you’re giving a veteran his companion back.

With love,

Ellie Maye

“Ellie Maye is an absolute sweetheart and I consider her one of our gentle giants. She instantly puts smiles on all of our faces when she walks into the clinic and brightens our day.

We look forward to seeing her get back to her happy, healthy self!” – Dr. Katie Olson - Twin Creek Animal Hospital