This morning, my sweet 2 1/2-year-old girl Bijou wasn't feeling well, and then suddenly couldn't walk.

One minute she was her happy, playful, mildly psychotic self, and the next she was dragging her back legs and trembling in pain. There were literally no warning signs...

I rushed her to the vet immediately, and after exams and X-rays, they believe she's suffering from hemilaminectomy, a spinal issue that requires back surgery. Without it, she could lose her ability to walk permanently or worse. I do have pet insurance, but they are not covering her surgery.

If you know me, you know that Bijou is my heart. She's my constant companion, my little shadow, and my emotional support through every up and down. She has this way of making everyone smile. Seeing her like this, scared and unable to move, has been absolutely devastating.

The surgery and recovery are estimated at between $9k and $13k, which includes hospitalization, anesthesia, imaging, medications, and rehab.

I've already covered the initial emergency vet visit and diagnostics, but the full cost of surgery is beyond what I can handle alone.

So, I am doing something that I don't normally do, and that is, humbly asking for help!

Whether it's a donation, a share, or just sending love, everything truly helps. Every bit brings me closer to getting Bijou the surgery she needs so she can be the crazy little best friend that she’s always been!!!

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for caring about my girl. She means the world to me!!!

With love and gratitude,

Nicole & Bijou