Help Sammy the Therapy Dog – Emergency Surgery Fund

Dear friends, animal lovers, and kind-hearted souls,

We are reaching out with heavy hearts and hope in our hands. Our beloved beagle, Sammy, recently suffered a ruptured spinal disc and required emergency surgery to save his ability to walk and relieve his pain.

Many of you may know Sammy—not just as our family dog (our little boy who is not so little), but as a certified therapy dog who has spent years bringing comfort and smiles to others. Sammy has volunteered in hospitals, hospice centers, assisted living facilities, and libraries, offering warmth, emotional support, and gentle companionship to those in need. He adores the neighbors and especially likes when the kids play with him. His regular volunteer position is at a local library, where children sign up for time to read to him and pet him. He is thrilled by the children as well as the librarians and patrons, making sure that everyone, including the security guard, has had some beagle love and support. Sammy takes his job very seriously and proudly wears his bandana to show that he is a working boy.

His sudden injury was devastating. We woke up and he was unable to stand or walk, so we rushed him to the emergency vet. They determined that he was paralyzed and took x-rays and bloodwork, then referred him to a veterinary neurologist for an MRI. We rushed him there, where he went under anesthesia for the MRI. Once they determined that it was a ruptured disc, he underwent emergency spinal surgery and had to stay a few nights for monitoring. Thanks to swift care and his fighting spirit, he’s on the road to recovery. But the costs have been overwhelming.

Although we carry pet insurance and expected 80% coverage, they are only covering 40%, citing a condition (IVDD) that his neurologist has specifically ruled out. We submitted an appeal. Again. We are now left with a significant financial burden, and the cost of living keeps rising.

We are doing all we can, but we’re struggling to cover the remaining vet bills, rehabilitation costs, and the additional care Sammy now needs. Any contribution—no matter how small—would go directly toward Sammy’s medical expenses and help us ensure his full recovery.

Sammy has given so much to others. Now, we’re humbly asking for help to give him the care he deserves.

With love and gratitude,

Eric, Dani, Sammy, and Maybe