Help Rugie Heal After Spinal Surgery

Our sweet French Bulldog, Rugie, just turned 4 years old. He has always been full of energy, love, and zoomies — the kind of pup who makes every day brighter.

A few nights ago, Rugie suddenly began shivering, cold to the touch, and unable to settle. We rushed him to the animal hospital, where he was given oxygen and a sedative to help calm him. Bloodwork and x-rays didn’t reveal much at first, so we brought him home with pain medicine and steroids to start the next morning.

The following morning, everything changed. Rugie’s neck was stiff, and when we tried to bring him outside, his back legs gave out. He collapsed right in front of us. We rushed him back to the emergency room, and from there were referred to a neurologist.

An MRI showed the cause: two herniated discs. Surgery was his only chance at recovery. We chose to move forward right away — Rugie means everything to us, and we knew he deserved this chance.

The procedure went well, but now comes the hardest part: recovery. It will take weeks before we know how much mobility Rugie may regain. Whether he walks again fully or needs extra support, we are committed to making sure he has the happiest life possible.

Why We’re Reaching Out

Emergency visits, imaging, and spinal surgery have created unexpected expenses that are difficult to manage alone. We’re reaching out to friends, family, and kind strangers for help covering Rugie’s medical bills and providing the supplies and therapies he’ll need during recovery. Funds will go directly toward Rugie’s medical bills, recovery supplies, post-surgery therapies, and anything he needs to stay comfortable and happy as he heals.

How You Can Support Rugie

We are so grateful for any kindness. Whether it’s through a donation toward his care, sharing Rugie’s story so more people can learn about him, or simply keeping him in your thoughts as he heals — every bit of support means the world to us.

Thank you for taking the time to read Rugie’s story. He’s only 4 years old, and with a little extra help, we can give him the best chance at many more years of joy, play, and love.

We will keep everyone updated on his recovery, I am sure Rugie would love to send everyone pictures of his cute Frenchie face when he gets back home !