My name is Sarah, and I’m reaching out for help for my beloved dachshund, Fats Domino—my special angel boy and emotional support animal. Fats Domino has been by my side through thick and thin, always knowing when I need comfort or a boost to my mental health. He’s my best friend, my nurse dog through three surgeries, and the happiest little soul with a constantly wagging tail. When my previous dog passed away the day before Fats was born, I truly felt her spirit lived on in him. After a difficult divorce and fighting for custody, my dogs have been my one constant, and I can’t imagine life without them.

Last night, Fats Domino suffered a terrible accident. While trying to help him off the bed, his back leg caught my hand, and when he landed, he screamed in pain. At first, I hoped it was a sprain, but by morning, he had lost the use of both back legs and couldn’t stand. We rushed to the ER, where he was diagnosed with a ruptured disc in his spine and scheduled for emergency surgery. The cost of his care is overwhelming. I was laid off in January, and unemployment barely covers my bills. While Fats has insurance, I still had to finance the entire amount out of pocket, hoping insurance will reimburse some of it.

The funds raised will go directly toward Fats Domino’s ER costs—his CT scan, medications, surgery, overnight stays, and follow-up care. Every dollar will help pay off the high-interest care credit card I had to use. It’s incredibly humbling to ask for help, especially after losing two pets in the same ER over the past six years. The trauma is real, and I know times are hard for everyone, but anything helps—a share, a small donation, or a prayer. Fats Domino is only five years old and has so much life left to live. My plea is that friends and kind strangers will help me spread the word and rally support for my sweet Fatsy Boy.