My name is Shelby I'm a local of big bear and I'm also the manager of the Jersey Mikes, and I recently adopted Jill, a one-year-old Boston terrier, from a local kill shelter. From the moment I met her, I knew she was meant to be part of our family. Jill, or as we lovingly call her, Silly Jilly, is full of energy and love. She quickly bonded with her two sisters, ages three and nine, and their favorite activities include tug of war, fetch, and simply enjoying each other's company.

Despite her playful spirit, Jill’s life took an unexpected turn when a routine vet visit revealed a severe heart murmur. Further testing showed she has a serious case of pulmonic valve stenosis, which has already caused her heart to enlarge on the right side. The cardiologist explained that without open heart surgery within the next year, Jill will go into heart failure. The urgency is real, and the sooner she can get the surgery, the better her chances for a healthy future. We’re currently waiting to hear back from specialists in Colorado, hoping for the best possible care for her.

Since her diagnosis, our daily lives have changed. We have to limit Jill’s playtime and keep her from overexerting herself, even though she’s so young and eager to play with her sisters. She’s now on daily medication to help her heart, and it’s clear her sisters sense something is different when we have to ask her to take breaks. It’s been emotionally challenging for all of us, but we’re determined to give Jill the best chance at a long, happy life. My dream has always been to rescue a dog a shelter, and Jill has already brought so much joy to our family. With your support, we hope to give her the surgery she needs so she can continue to live a full, happy life with her sisters by her side. After her surgery, my greatest hope is to give Jill a longer, happy, and healthy life, filled with the love and playtime she deserves.