My name is Erin Smith. Twelve years ago, my husband and I brought home Jake, an 8-week-old German Shorthaired Pointer. Jake has always been a sweet and gentle boy. Everyone who’s had the privilege to cross paths with him notices his amazing ability to perceive anyone’s emotional state and somehow give them just what they need. He might gently rest his head on your lap or a paw on your hand.

I think fellow pet owners whose animal is their child can relate to this situation. Yesterday, we had to rush Jake to the hospital emergency vet. He was losing his balance and seemed to be distressed and confused in general. After his blood work, we were urged to immediately get him to an animal hospital with a neurologist on staff. He’s currently in ICU at Port City Veterinary Referral Hospital. He’s received every bit of recommended testing thus far. We’re waiting for results still, and it’s looking like it could possibly be cancer. The next step is him getting an MRI to look at his brain. We’ve exhausted our funds as of right now, but we are willing to do whatever is necessary for him. If anyone has the ability to donate anything to help pay for Jake's MRI/ continued care, we would be so grateful.

My husband and I have no children, so Jake is just as much a child to us. He’s our big baby boy, and we want to give him the best fighting chance and a solution to his pain and distress. Please help if you can.