Help Kiva Get Back in the Swim of Things

Hi everyone! Comma here and I'm fundraising for my best friend and companion, Kiva - my 15 year 3 month old yellow lab. I feel both humbled and hesitant to ask for help with this. Like Kiva, I have a strong independent streak, as most of you know.

A few weeks ago she slipped in the mud and tore the ACL and meniscus in her left rear knee. Ow! In order for her to be able to walk without pain, she needs surgery. Although these are common injuries in all dogs, her age makes this procedure a bit worrisome for me. The surgeon says she's in good health otherwise, so the surgery should go fine. I want her to have the best quality of life for however long she chooses to stay on this planet with me, so I've agreed to the surgery. It is scheduled for this coming Thursday, August 12th. Frankly, I'm nervous.

The other concern I have is about the cost of the procedure - $5,000-$6,000!! Yikes! And there will be medication and follow-up visits. I have pet insurance and it will cover $1,300 of the surgery. The rest is out of pocket.

I know this has been a tough year and a half for many of us in many ways, income included. Having said that, I'd be so grateful for whatever money I could raise to offset the final cost of getting her back to walking and swimming and enjoying her life again. No amount is too small. It will all go to a good cause - Kiva's quality of life. And if you can't help with money, no worries - please send healing energies Kiva's way.

A huge heartfelt thanks in advance for whatever you can do to get that smile back on her face!!