Our 5-year-old dog Mac Mac has always been the kind of dog who steals hearts the moment he enters a room. He looks like a version of Clifford the Big Red Dog, with his reddish-golden fur and soulful eyes; he just makes everyone feel special.

Recently, we noticed changes — he started limping and seemed less energetic. Initially, we thought it could be a minor injury or muscle tear from running and playing with his brother Gus, the black Australian Shepherd pictured. However, after several tests and vet visits, our world was turned upside down: Mac was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an aggressive form of bone cancer. The thought of losing him is unbearable, so we immediately explored treatment options.

Mac will need to have a complete leg amputation and undergo several rounds of chemotherapy. This is the standard form of treatment for Osteosarcoma, and without it, his life expectancy is a mere 4-6 months. When the veterinarian said amputation, my mind could not comprehend how my 5-year-old fur-baby went from a healthy and strong goober to having cancer in the span of a week.

While we had savings and pet insurance, it just isn't enough to ensure Mac receives the care he needs. This has forced us to try to rationalize worst-case scenario decisions that every pet parent has nightmares about, leading us to create this GoFundMe to save Mac Mac.

Mac isn't just our family dog; he is our family and needs all the help he can get.

Please consider helping Mac fight cancer. Your support and compassion can truly make a difference for our best friend and fur-baby.