Hello, my name is Chloe, and I’m asking for help for my dog, Chooki.

Chooki is my 3-year-old Shepherd mix rescue—an absolute sweetheart, a professional “booper,” and the gentlest soul you could meet. We celebrated her third birthday on November 15, believing we had many carefree, active years ahead of us.

Unfortunately, that changed quickly.

After a summer filled with her favorite things—swimming, playing with her little sister Coquí, and romping with dog friends—I noticed a limp developing in her left back leg. What I feared might be hip dysplasia turned out to be far worse: Chooki has torn cruciate ligaments in both knees and congenital hip dysplasia. According to her veterinarian, there was no accident or injury; this is purely structural. As her doctor gently put it, while Chooki is beautiful, she is “put together badly.”

Without surgery, Chooki will continue to live in pain and face a significantly reduced quality of life. With surgery, she has an excellent chance to return to the happy, active dog she is meant to be. Her quality of life is very important to me, and I want to help her recover as well as I can.

At the same time, I am navigating the sudden loss of my federal job due to Reduction in Force (RIF) initiatives. Losing my career in HIV policy has been devastating, emotionally and financially. The job search has been relentless and discouraging. Through all of this, my dogs have been my lifeline. They are my comfort, my routine, and keep my chin up on the hardest days.

I cannot sacrifice Chooki’s quality of life—but I admittedly cannot do this alone.

The estimated cost for Chooki’s surgeries and recovery is just over $10,000. I am not asking for the full amount—only for help covering what I cannot manage on my own during this incredibly difficult moment.

If you are able to donate, share, or simply keep us in your thoughts, please know how deeply grateful we are. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for showing kindness during a moment of real vulnerability.

With love, gratitude, and plenty of doggie kisses,

Chloe & Chooki