If you’re reading this, thank you for stopping by. This is a story of me and my best friend, Bane.

Most people who know me know that Bane and I are a package deal. For the last 11 years he’s been my constant companion — riding shotgun in my truck and showing up with me through literally every chapter of my 20’s.

I adopted Bane when I was just starting out on my own as a young adult, and he was only about six months old. Life was uncertain, but through every move, new beginning, and difficult season, Bane stayed right beside me. During those early years, I made sure of one thing every day: Bane ate before I did. Always.

Bane is more than a companion — he’s my emotional support dog and has helped carry me through some of the hardest moments of my life. He truly saved me. I don’t think I would still be here today without him.

I am not good at asking for help and this is really uncomfortable for me.

Long story short - we are both physically down and out. Bane needs a surgery I am unable to fully cover the costs of.

️Recently, Bane injured his knee. Veterinarians believe he may need TPLO surgery. If successful, the procedure could give him another 3–4+ good years of mobility and comfort so he can have a few more adventures, comfortably. (Able to walk on all fours ) so that he will inevitably enter his “retirement era.”

Bane has a veterinary appointment coming up on March 5th for imaging, and we hope to schedule surgery soon after. If I can get funds in order in time - I’ve applied for care credit, and I’m actively applying for veterinary assistance programs, public and private grants, and exploring every payment option available. The total cost is estimated around $10k

a little about us :

from every season of life - so many changes - everything we have both been through; as a team. I really want him to

get the surgery so that he can actually walk normal again, at least..

I know you don’t owe him that - I do. I hate that I’m in this position, but truly - anything helps and we are beyond blessed to have met as many amazing friends and family - that have also welcomed me and my son without hesitation.

I’ll be honest — asking for help like this is incredibly difficult. We’ve faced emergency surgeries and vet trips before, but I’ve personally never been in this position… until now. I’m so grateful for the time I’ve had with him, and I don’t take it for granted.

More about us and our adventures:

Colorado bend state park, Tx 2017

‍ We’re both adopted, and somehow we found each other exactly when we needed to. I adopted Bane in Denton TX in 2014 - he came from a 280 fight ring sting and was likely used as a bait dog. In Texas, I worked hard to challenge the stigma around pit bulls and bully breeds. Dogs like Bane are often misunderstood, and I made it a personal mission to show people who they really are. Many people told me that after meeting Bane; completely changed the way they viewed pit bulls. Anyone who spends even a few minutes with him quickly realizes he is one of the gentlest, most loyal dogs you could ever meet.

Bane has lived an incredible life with me.

Hes protected me, loved me unconditionally, and taught me a lot more about life than one might think. He’s my soul dog, my travel buddy, my world. I’m blessed to have found him.

lake Murray, Oklahoma - 2018 ish

His little paws have travelled to the Grand Canyon, paddled the Mississippi River, explored New Orleans, walked 6th Street in Austin, Texas (he’s quite the charmer ), visited Huntington Dog Beach multiple times, and taken countless road trips & camping/hiking/backpacking adventures. He’s been my co-pilot through life, sharing every adventure and new chapter.

**************

Unfortunately, the timing is difficult for me - I’m recovering from a workplace back injury and was wrongfully let go from my job following my injury. This last year has been one of the most difficult yet. Being let go from a career I loved has impacted my life in ways I never imagined. I am still actively dealing with (physically and mentally) which has contributed to making finances very unstable currently.

Right now, my main focus is helping Bane get the care he needs. Anything left will go toward Dixie Daisy’s upcoming surgery — she has helped Bane adjust to Washington and kept him active, which I’m very grateful for.

*separately but also important* (my dads) dog in our family — “Dixie Daisy”, the golden retriever many locals recognize riding around in my dad’s truck or with me - at the Chevron - or coffee stands around town- has recently been diagnosed with hip dysplasia and will likely need surgery as well . We’ve been working on her health and diet, but our family simply wasn’t prepared for her health to decline so rapidly.

Bane is my responsibility and unfortunately I’m unable to provide for him as I usually have.

if you’ve read this far, you’re a trooper and I appreciate you

** If anyone is able to help give Bane a few more comfortable years of mobility and joy, while I get my footing back after a very difficult year, it would truly mean the world to me. **

Bane has spent his entire life showing up for me. I just want the chance to show up for him now. Even if it feels awkward to ask for support in this way.

️

If you’re able to donate, or even just share a memory you might have with us, Bane’s story, we’re incredibly grateful. Seriously.

— Taylor & Bane ‍