Help Buddy Walk Again: TPLO Surgery for the Gentle Giant

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to ask for help for my best friend, Buddy.

Buddy is 8.5 years old and has been by my side for the past 8 years. I adopted him when I was 17, just starting out in my adult life. We found each other through Perfect Pets Rescue, an amazing foster-based organization that saves dogs from high-kill shelters in the South and brings them North to find their forever homes. Buddy had been picked up as a stray in Georgia, just a few months old and already with a scar on his head — a small mark from a rough start that he still carries today.

Since then, Buddy has been with me through every life stage: college, multiple moves, and all of the ups and downs. He’s my constant, my comfort, and the heart of my home. Buddy has the kindest soul and a playful spirit. He loves everyone — humans and animals alike — and is the glue that helps all of our household pets get along so well. Though he’s a big dog and can seem intimidating at first glance, Buddy has always had an amazing sense of others' energy and size, adjusting his play to be gentle and welcoming to everyone he meets.

Sadly, it was this gentle nature that led to his injury. While playing with my other dogs, Ducky and Poppy, Buddy stopped short to avoid colliding with Poppy who is only a few months old herself. In doing so, he made a quick turn that caused a ligament in his knee to snap — the dog equivalent of a torn ACL. At first, we hoped it was just a pulled muscle, but it quickly became clear it was much more serious. Buddy stopped bearing weight on his leg entirely, struggled to stand, and could no longer manage stairs or using the bathroom on his own.

After multiple vet consultations, the recommended solution is TPLO surgery to stabilize his knee and give him the chance to return to his happy, active life. Right now, Buddy is on pain medication and doing his best to adapt, but his size is working against him. He’s putting all of his weight on his remaining good back leg, and the vet warned that without surgery, it’s common for dogs his size to injure the healthy leg too — a risk I’m desperate to avoid.

It’s heartbreaking to watch him sit and whine as Ducky and Poppy play, wanting so badly to join them but unable to move without pain.

The cost of TPLO surgery for a dog his size ranges between $6,500 and $7,000, not including the consultations we’ve already had, pre- and post-op care, or the physical therapy he’ll need for a full recovery. I know spare money isn’t something most people have lying around. Please don’t put yourself in a tough financial spot — but if you’re able to give anything at all, know that it would mean the world to both of us.

Buddy has given me eight years of unconditional love, comfort, and joy. I want to give him the chance to enjoy the rest of his life pain-free and playful — the way he deserves.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and for any support you’re able to offer.

With gratitude,

Juliette & Buddy