Hi everyone,

Our family is reaching out with extremely heavy hearts to ask for help with emergent medical expenses for our 4-year-old Sheltie, Jeffrey. Jeff is more than a pet; he is a presence in every single moment of every single day we spend in our home. A classic "velcro" dog, Jeff is literally by your side no matter how exciting or mundane the activity. For the past 4 years, he has seen us through literally everything in our lives, and now he needs and deserves more than anything for us to be there just as much for him.

One week ago, Jeffrey began to develop a slight limp in his left leg. We were seen twice by our primary care veterinarian who performed x-rays and exams and believed what we were seeing with the leg could be attributed to a luxating patella. Essentially, a knee cap that moves in and out of place at times. This issue typically is not painful, however, it can predispose dogs to injury since they are not walking as stably as usual. However, two days ago we noticed Jeffrey was only taking a few steps at a time before laying down, and eventually this progressed to him not bearing weight at all on either of his back legs. In the short amount of time it took to get him loaded into the car and on the road to the emergency vet, it was very clear he was experiencing a tremendous amount of pain.

After meeting with veterinary staff at the Emergency vet, we were told that they believe Jeff has intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which causes the discs between his vertebrae to bulge or rupture, pressing on the spinal cord causing weakness, loss of coordination, and paralysis. Additionally, it was discovered that Jeff has sludge developing in his gallbladder, which is also impacting his liver function.

Jeff was admitted to the ICU for pain control and medication. His neurological function to his back legs maintained throughout his stay, and we were able to bring him home last night in an attempt to medically manage his condition at home.

Jeff has been started on multiple medications for pain control and to aid his liver and gallbladder in improving their function. However, he is still in need of an MRI and potential spinal surgery to give him the best chance at living a life without pain and regaining his mobility.

Unfortunately, the cost of veterinary care is incredibly overwhelming, and expenses have already surmounted what we could ever have prepared for. The most important estimated medical expenses are $8,000. This includes

We are doing everything we can, however, we cannot cover these expenses on our own. Any donation- no matter the amount- will go directly to Jeffrey’s medical care. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean the absolute world to us.

Jeffrey is the absolute most loving, loyal, protective dog who at 4 years old still has so much life and love to give. With your help, it is our hope we can give him the chance to heal and continue living his best life.

Thank you so incredibly much for taking the time to read, supporting, and keeping Jeffrey in your thoughts. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Elise, Eric, & Carson