Moon has been our family's constant companion through life's biggest moments. Known for his playful spirit and overwhelming affection, Moon has always been what we lovingly called "aggressive about love and kisses." He was the dog who couldn't resist a good face-licking session, whose tongue was perpetually ready to shower anyone nearby with wet kisses. When we welcomed our second son last May, Moon was there with his gentle presence, curiously sniffing the new addition and taking on his role as protector with the same dedication he's always shown. His calm demeanor helped ease this transition for our entire household, especially for our 3-year-old, Emery.

Earlier this year, Moon suffered an unimaginable loss when his sister Mochi suddenly fell ill. After watching his sister suffer for two weeks despite multiple tests showing no clear diagnosis, we made the heartbreaking decision to end her pain. We witnessed Moon's confusion and grief as he searched for his lifelong companion in the days that followed. The financial and emotional toll of losing Mochi was devastating, and now facing Moon's illness so soon after has been overwhelming.

Now, just when our family was beginning to heal from this devastating loss, Moon himself is facing a serious health battle.

Moon's Health Journey

Since losing Mochi, especially since November, Moon's bright spirit has been dimming. His playful bounces have turned to careful steps, and the dog who used to greet us with energetic leaps for joy when we opened the door has rapidly transformed into one who offers just a side glance and barely lifts his head. It's as if his trademark affection—the very essence of his personality—has been muted by his illness. We've watched as he's lost over 7 pounds since December, his spine curving in discomfort, and his belly gradually enlarging. Most heartbreaking has been seeing Moon's embarrassment when he can't make it outside in time—something that never happened before his illness.

Recent veterinary visits have revealed that Moon has hypothyroidism and potential liver complications. The doctors found sludge in his gallbladder, concerning changes in one of his liver lobes, and a cystic structure in one of his kidneys that might be an abscess, cyst, or tumor. Through all the poking, prodding, and testing, Moon has remained patient and brave, his gentle eyes looking to us for reassurance.

Our veterinarian has been transparent that Moon's recovery journey will be long, expensive, and uncertain. The doctors have made it clear that surgery is almost certainly necessary, and the recovery will be challenging. Through all the extensive poking, prodding, and testing, Moon has remained patient and brave, his gentle eyes looking to us for reassurance—eyes that seem to ask if we can help him feel better again.

In our home, Moon isn't just a pet—he's the thread that weaves our family together. Every morning, he used to greet Emery with a gentle nudge and enthusiastic kisses, knowing the toddler loves nothing more than their special moments together. Emery, our energetic 3-year-old who started school in February, has grown up with Moon as his constant playmate. He's learned to be careful around his baby brother because of Moon's gentle example. Though Emery wants nothing more than to play and chase Moon around as they used to do, we've watched in amazement as our toddler has learned to be gentle, whispering to Moon, "It's okay, you're sick, we can just cuddle." The bond between them is so special—Moon has been Emery's first friend, first protector, and first lesson in caring for others.

Moon's relationship with his cat brother Milo has evolved too. Milo, who has been with Moon since day one, seems to understand something is wrong. Where once they would playfully chase each other, now Milo has become Moon's protector. If Moon attempts to climb the stairs when he's clearly struggling, Milo races ahead to intercept him as if to say, "You're sick—rest." In quiet moments, we find them curled together, Milo purring against Moon's side.

Even with our newest family member, our baby boy who arrived last May, Moon shows his gentle nature. Before he fell ill, Moon would cover the baby with gentle kisses during tummy time. Now, though his energy has waned, he still carefully positions himself nearby during feedings and diaper changes, maintaining his role as guardian despite his own discomfort. The baby is growing up knowing Moon's warmth, even if he's not experiencing the full force of Moon's famous kiss attacks that once left everyone giggling and wiping their faces.

How You Can Help Moon

Our initial fundraising goal is $5,000, but we want to be completely transparent—this only scratches the surface of what Moon's treatment will ultimately cost. His veterinarians have made it abundantly clear that surgery is not just possible but a 99% certainty. the only unknowns are when it will happen and how extensive it will need to be.

The immediate funds raised will go toward:

This is just the beginning of Moon's medical journey. The looming surgery—whether it's for his liver, kidney, or both—will significantly increase costs, not to mention the rehabilitation period afterward and the potential for lifetime medication.

Any contribution will help us get the critical answers we need about Moon's condition and begin his treatment journey. The veterinarians have left no question about the seriousness of his condition—without intervention, we face the very real possibility of losing Moon. After already experiencing the heartbreak of losing Mochi earlier this year, we're determined to do everything possible to give Moon his best chance.

Moon Thanks You--If Moon could speak, we know he would express his deep gratitude for any support during this difficult time. Having already stood by us through the loss of his sister Mochi, Moon deserves every chance at recovery. The road ahead is daunting—multiple vet visits each week, inevitable surgery, medication adjustments, and a completely new diet and lifestyle—but with your help, we can give Moon the fighting chance he deserves.

When we tell him "you're a good boy" after each vet visit, the gentle wag of his tail reminds us of the joy he brings to our lives every day, even when he's not feeling his best. We hope that with proper treatment, we'll once again see the dog who licked with love and jumped for joy at our return.

Thank you for helping us give Moon the chance he deserves to continue being an active part of our family's story.

With gratitude and wet-nosed kisses,

Moon, Milo, Emery, Oliver, Amber, and Chris