My sweet Kelso is only 6 years old, but to me he’s still that tiny 7-week-old puppy I brought home. He is still the one who fit in my hands, who curled up on my chest, who grew into the sweetest, most loyal companion I’ve ever had. He’s been with me through every hard moment, every quiet night, and every joy. He has my entire heart and is family in every sense of the word.

This past Saturday, everything changed. Kelso suddenly started acting unlike himself. Within hours he declined so fast it terrified me. Around 7pm, we rushed to the emergency vet. Desperate for answers, but were told his vitals looked fine and it was “probably just an upset stomach”, I was truly hopeful I had just overreacted and took my baby home.

By the next day, his neck began to swell. I knew something was wrong, but again, we were told to monitor him and try Benadryl. Still, I watched the dog I love more than anything become lethargically sick.

Yesterday morning, as Kelso continued to decline, we went to his normal vet for a more in depth evaluation. We’ve since received the devastating results that Kelso’s kidney function is abnormal and creatinine levels are dangerously high. The treatment plan is to be hospitalized for a minimum of 48 hours to undergo a kidney flush, IV antibiotics, and constant monitoring. The vet made it very clear that if we do not move quickly and aggressively Kelso may not recover.

The estimate is $4,000–$6,000, and I simply don’t have that kind of money. If I could cover it on my own, I would do it without hesitation. I’m asking for help because his life depends on it. Any amount will go directly toward his treatment and keeping him here with me. And if you can’t donate, sharing his story means more than you know.

Kelso has been with me since he was 7 weeks old. He survived Lepto when he was just a year and a half old. He’s a fighter, and he deserves the chance to fight again, but I can’t give him that chance alone.

Thank you from the bottom of both mine and Kelso’s hearts for reading, for caring, and for helping trying to save my boy.

update!!

We heard from the icu vet today and his kidney function lab (BUN) is starting to improve! Last read was 130 and today we are sitting at 95.5. Still not where we need it to be but moving in the right direction! This afternoon they are going to do a few more specific lab panels including a tick panel. He also had going to have an ultrasound of his neck done today with needle apparatus to drain possible abscess or fluid pocket and send that off for testing. Dr also said kelso is the sweetest boy and the staff love him and enjoy loving on him! Thank you for everyone who has donated. I can’t thank you enough.

update!!!

after a pretty scary night we have some positive news. Kelso’s kidney levels have started decreasing again. He also has his appetite back and is drinking water. He does have some edema and around 4 am they noticed significant weight gain due to him now receiving fluids and drinking water. We are monitoring for the next 24 to make sure appetite sticks around and that he continues to drink water. Tomorrow they are consulting a specialist to talk about oral medications and then it will be a day of him inpatient while they see how those do and then we are moving into releasing him and focusing on what medications and diet he will be on to maintain his kidney issues. Today was the first day, that felt like we are in the homestretch and close to getting my baby home. Again I am so grateful to everyone who donated, shared and reached out. Hopefully the next update is kelso is home.