Help My Boy Reef Walk Again pain free – Urgent Surgery

Hi everyone my name is Kat,

I never thought I’d find myself writing something like this, but I’m reaching out with my heart in my hands, asking for help to with my baby boy, Reef.

Reef is my 10-month-old Great Dane x Mastiff — a big, beautiful boy with the gentlest soul. He’s goofy, kind, emotional, and deeply loving. He’s more than just a dog — he’s my fourth baby. He’s my comfort when the world gets too heavy, my kids' best friend, and the heart of our home.

A few weeks ago, I noticed Reef limping. At first I thought maybe he’d just twisted something while playing, but as the days went on, it got worse. Off to the vet we went — again — and after exams and X-rays, we were hit with a diagnosis that broke me.

Double elbow dysplasia. Severe bone fragments. Arthritis already setting in. His right is much worse. And worst of all — he needs surgery urgently.

Just knowing He’s in pain every time he moves shatters my heart. He is currently on anti inflammatory medication and I’ve purchased rose hip powder and omega 3,6 & 9 to put in his food. He is just a baby our baby.

The cost to begin his treatment — including urgent CT scans and surgery to remove the bone fragments — is $7,000. And right now, I just don’t have it.

I’m a single mum of three beautiful kids. I’m already fighting through my own health battles and trying to stay strong for my family. On top of everything, my car’s transmission just failed, costing $7,500 to replace — money that’s gone before I even had a chance to breathe then the cost of a hire car until I can get my car back.

It’s hard to ask for help. I never ever ask for help & It’s even harder to feel like I’m failing Reef — who’s never failed us.

Reef didn’t choose this pain. And I would give anything to take it from him. He deserves to run, to play, to live the life a young pup should. This surgery is his only chance at a pain-free future. Without it, his condition will only worsen. Reef’s pet insurance does not cover this condition.

If you’re able to help in any way — whether by donating or even just sharing this — please know it means the world to us.

Every dollar will go directly toward Reef’s medical care, and every act of kindness will be carried in my heart forever.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for giving my boy the chance he so desperately needs.

With love,
Reef’s Mumma