Dory has always been the heart and protector of my home. At 6 years old, she’s grown into a loyal companion who takes her watch duties seriously, always keeping an eye on the household and making sure everyone is safe. From the moment I brought her home as a puppy, she was curious and adventurous—often found exploring every corner or even lounging on the kitchen table. Her favorite thing in the world is a car ride, head out the window, ears flapping in the wind, soaking up every moment.

Recently, Dory’s life changed dramatically. She developed severe swelling in her leg, and despite countless tests, medications, and daily bandage changes, her condition worsened until her foot burst open. There was no clear cause, and watching her go through so much pain has been heartbreaking. She’s been hospitalized 9 out of the last 15 days, and now she needs a leg amputation to give her a chance at a pain-free life. After surgery, Dory will need months of physical therapy and training to adjust to life as a tripod, but I know her spirit and determination will help her through it.

This journey has been emotionally and financially overwhelming. Dory is my first dog, and seeing her suffer has been incredibly hard. I have three other dogs at home, and her siblings miss her dearly while she’s been away so much. The costs of her care—testing, imaging, bandaging, and now surgery—have added up quickly. I’m doing everything I can for her, but we need help to get through this. Any support for Dory’s surgery and recovery would mean the world to all of us, helping her get back to the happy, adventurous life she loves.