Help Penny Heal: Support Her Fight Against IVDD

Hi, my name is Mary, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart on behalf of my sweet dachshund, Penelope “Penny” Walker. Penny is just 3 years old, full of love, sass, and joy — but recently, her world has been turned upside down.

Penny was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition that dachshunds are heartbreakingly prone to. This disease affects the discs in her spine, causing pain, weakness, and the risk of permanent paralysis. Within days, my happy, energetic little girl went from zooming around the house with her brother, Zeke, to struggling to walk, crying in pain, and needing emergency care.

At the ER vet, Penny underwent urgent testing: x-rays, ultrasound, catheterization for a severely infected bladder full of stones, and IV medications to control her pain. She’s now stable, but she faces a long road ahead — strict crate rest, expensive pain management, surgery to remove her bladder stones, continued care for her spine to protect her mobility, and possible back surgery in the future.

Why I’m Asking for Help

The costs of Penny’s treatment are overwhelming. Between ER visits, medications, diagnostic tests, and upcoming procedures, her care is expected to cost thousands of dollars. While I have pet insurance, it doesn’t cover anything upfront, and we have already reached the maximum reimbursement amount at her primary vet for the first two visits before the ER.

Penny means the world to me. She’s not just a pet — she’s family, my shadow, and my comfort through life’s challenges. She deserves the chance to heal, to live without pain, and to get back to enjoying belly rubs, sunbathing, and cuddles with Zeke.

How You Can Help

• Donate: Any amount, big or small, will make a difference in covering her medical expenses.

• Share: Please share Penny’s story with friends, family, and fellow dog lovers.

• Encourage: Words of support mean so much during this difficult time.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward Penny’s veterinary bills, medications, and rehabilitation care.

9/8 $489 primary visit

9/10 $130 primary visit

9/10 $50 prescriptions

9/11-9/12 $2214 ER visit

9/14 $423 long term crate setup, ramp

9/15 $75 primary visit

9/18 $2157 bladder surgery

9/25 $97 post op visit

-$1000 per insurance reimbursement

$4635 total

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading Penny’s story and considering helping us. With your kindness, we can give her the best chance to recover and keep her tail wagging for years to come.

With gratitude,

Mary & Penny