Finnley is our beloved family dog, and he’s been a constant companion to our three kids as they’ve grown up. Recently, Finnley was diagnosed with chylorothorax, a rare disease that causes fluid to fill his chest cavity. We first realized something was wrong when Finnley started having trouble breathing, and we rushed him to the emergency vet. There, they removed a large amount of fluid from his chest, and we began a journey to understand and manage his condition.

After a follow-up appointment with an internal medicine veterinarian in Madison, we learned more about the disease and they made some diet changes, putting him on a prescription food as well as a daily supplement called Rutin. We hoped this would help manage the fluid buildup, believing we had time to save for surgery and continue treatments. Unfortunately, Finnley’s condition is progressing much faster than expected. At his next appointment, the fluid had already returned, requiring another emergency procedure. The costs for testing and draining the fluid are substantial, and we’ve spent a significant amount in just one month. It’s not sustainable for Finnley or our family to continue monthly draining procedures—he needs surgery to have a chance at a longer, healthier life.

Finnley is more than just a pet; he’s family. Our three kiddos have grown up with him, and we want nothing more than to give him more than four years with us. That’s not enough when it comes to family. We wish we were able to do it on our own, so anything is everything. Any support means the world to us as we try to give Finnley the care he needs and the chance to stay with our family for years to come.