My dog has been my constant companion and one of my greatest sources of joy. Today, I’m facing one of the hardest moments of my life as I prepare to say goodbye to her due to severe congestive heart failure. She recently went on her last adventure to Tahoe and Yosemite, and I’ve spent every moment with her since learning she didn’t have much time left. I haven’t been able to work for three weeks, and I’ve arranged for a specialist to come to our home so she can be comfortable in her final moments, as she’s always been scared of the doctor’s office.

The funds raised will help cover the cost of her at-home care and the time I’ve had to take off work to be with her. This is incredibly difficult for me, as she is truly one of my babies—fur or not—and I want to make sure she feels safe and loved until the very end. I’ve dreaded this day since the moment I got her, and it’s hard to imagine life without her by my side.

I want to thank everyone who’s ever helped me through her health problems over the years. She stayed strong after her heart murmur and major surgery, but now she’s no longer eating her favorite foods and her quality of life has declined. Any support—whether sharing, donating, or sending kind words—means so much as I help her rest peacefully. I know all dogs go to heaven, so I find comfort knowing she isn’t scared. Thank you for being there for us during this heartbreaking time.