Almost a year ago, Jake and I adopted our sweet girl, Happy, from the Denali National Park Kennels.

But Happy has actually been a part of my life for much longer.

I met my little soulmate when she was just 9 months old, during my first season working at the kennels in 2017. Over the years I watched her grow into an incredible working dog, covering thousands of miles across the wintery wilds of Denali.

Now at 9 years old, Happy is finally enjoying the retirement that she deserves. She spends her days cuddled by my side on the couch, sleeping in on her many beds, and being the patient big sister to her 11-month-old adopted little brothers, Aster and Bennie.

She is truly the heart of our family.

In October 2025, Happy underwent TPLO surgery to repair a pre-existing cruciate ligament tear in her back left knee. Since then, veterinarians discovered something far more serious that had been hidden by the initial injury: Synovial Cell Sarcoma, a rare locally aggressive cancer of the knee joint.

The news was devastating to our little family.

The only treatment that offers Happy the best chance at a long and comfortable life is complete amputation of the affected leg.

There is hopeful news! Currently there is no evidence that the cancer has spread anywhere else in her body. Because it appears localized, removing the leg gives her the best possible chance to live a full and happy life.

Her surgery is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18th, with Dr. Cole at Aurora Animal Hospital in Fairbanks.

Anyone who knows us, knows that our dogs are our entire world. When it comes to their health and happiness, every single penny is worth it. But the many steps leading to this moment - diagnostics, surgery, travel, and follow up care - have significant expenses.

That is why we are reaching out to our friends, family, and community

We know the incredible resiliency of our girl will overcome the challenges of living with 3 legs, and soar to new heights of adventures and being pain free!

If you are able, please consider donating to help cover the cost of Happy’s surgery and recovery. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us move closer to giving her the healthy future she deserves.

Thank you for loving our “gorl”

With gratitude,

Jess, Jake, Happy, Aster, and Bennie