Gunner's emergency veterinary bills

On Tuesday afternoon, my 6-year-old chocolate lab Gunner, suffered a horrendous rattlesnake bite on his chin in our backyard while being let out.

He came inside profusely bleeding from his chin and within minutes his pupils were dilated, heavy panting, lethargic, couldn't stand, and the swelling started on his jaw and lips. I immediately rushed him to the ER vet uncertain as to exactly what had happened but knowing his vitals were declining rapidly and if it was what I thought, we had less than 4 hours to receive anti-venom. The vet confirmed it was a rattlesnake bite by blood tests which also showed signs of internal bleeding, low blood circulation, and low platelet count (no blood clotting factors). He received his first dose of anti-venom, a bolus of fluids, pain injection, anti-nauseous, and monitoring began. A few hours later the swelling was increasing and blood results showed early signs of liver damage and increased destroyed cells (signs that the venom is still in his system). After his 2nd vial of anti-venom, more fluids and pain meds it was a waiting game. I visited him around 8pm to find him incredibly anxious and uncomfortable and his swelling had more than tripled in size. The vet suggested more anti-venom and asked if I would approve a 3rd vial. As you all know you'd do anything to save your pup so I agreed. It had been over 8 hours of trying to neutralize the toxin before it started shutting down his organs.

Overnight his progress stayed static. His swelling is not increasing which is all we can hope for.

As of now, his bill is up to $7,300 and he is currently still being hospitalized with an unsure date of discharge. I'm asking for prayers and lots of love sent his way as he has a long road of recovery ahead. If you feel the urge to help financially, it is all greatly appreciated, as anything helps at this point and I will keep you all updated! I am overwhelmed with the support and care shown thus far for Gunner and I know he is excited to get back to loving you all!