UPDATE: #4

Update on Dexter

I know many of you already know, but I still find it hard to say—Dexter is no longer with us. Writing this with tears in my eyes and an ache in my chest, I wanted to share a few personal thoughts as I continue to process everything.

The day he passed, I was overwhelmed with emotions. One of the hardest decisions I had to make was choosing between a burial and cremation. After some time and thought, I chose cremation—because I want to have him with me wherever I go. Just like when he was alive, Dexter went everywhere with me. It’s what he deserves.

It took a lot of courage and mental strength to drive to VCA today to let them know my decision. I’ll receive his ashes in about three weeks. Until then, all I have are some fur, a few toys, familiar smells, and the memories that keep him close.

I want to give a really, really big thank you to everyone who has reached out, checked in, or simply held space for me during this time. An even bigger thank you to everyone who donated—your kindness means more than I can put into words.

UPDATE #3 2:30AM

Update on Dexter – A Difficult Night Ahead

I just got off the phone with the ER doctor, and I wanted to share the latest update on Dexter’s condition.

Right now, things are incredibly serious. The doctor told me Dexter is truly in a 50/50 condition. He currently has fluid in his lungs, which is making it much harder for him to breathe. On top of that, the swelling in his throat hasn’t gone down, and the stress of everything is taking a major toll on his little body.

Although his oxygen levels have improved somewhat, it’s not enough to get him off oxygen support. He’s still relying heavily on it just to stay stable.

At this point, I’ve been presented with two options:

1. Intubation and advanced oxygen therapy – a more aggressive treatment that may help, but it requires an additional deposit, which I currently can’t cover on my own.

2. Continue with the current oxygen chamber treatment, but if his condition doesn’t improve overnight or in the next few hours, we could be facing the worst-case scenario—having to let him go.

I don’t want to give up on Dexter. He’s fighting so hard, but his airways are restricted, he’s under constant stress, and now with the added fluid in his lungs, time is truly running out.

Please, if you’re able to share this update or contribute in any way, it could make the difference between continuing his treatment or making an unbearable decision.

Thank you again to everyone who has reached out, donated, or kept Dexter in your thoughts. I’m holding onto hope tonight and staying by his side however I can.

– Juanito

UPDATE 10PM EST:

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share an update on Dexter’s condition and thank you all for the love and support so far.

I was able to cover the cost of 24 hours of emergency care at VCA in Fairfax, which came to approximately $4,500. While the veterinarians strongly recommended a minimum of 48 hours in an oxygen chamber, financially I could only afford the first 24.

Right now, Dexter’s condition remains very serious. His oxygen levels, which had initially improved, have started to drop again, and the swelling in his throat is still present, making it difficult for him to breathe comfortably. He’s being monitored closely by the ICU staff tonight.

Tomorrow, I plan to call around to other emergency animal hospitals in the area to see if there’s a possibility of transferring him to a clinic that can provide the same level of care at a more affordable rate.

For now, all I can do is keep him in my prayers and continue to fight for more time and better options.

Please keep sharing this page if you’re able. Any support—financial or just spreading the word—makes a huge difference for Dexter and gives him a better chance at recovery.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Hi everyone,

Today started like any other day—Dexter, my French bulldog and best friend, went in for a routine grooming appointment. Tragically, while under the groomer’s care, Dexter suffered a heat stroke.

When I got him home, he was in clear distress. I tried to cool him down immediately, but his condition worsened. I rushed him to VCA Animal Hospital in Fairfax, where he was diagnosed with a severe heat stroke. His oxygen levels had dropped to 91%, and his airways were swollen from the strain of breathing.

The veterinary team told me that Dexter needs to remain in an oxygen chamber for at least 48 hours to stabilize his breathing and improve his chances of recovery. However, even that timeframe doesn’t guarantee his full recovery—it’s just the bare minimum of care he needs right now. The cost of this emergency treatment is estimated at $7,500.

Dexter has been with me through some of the hardest moments of my life. He’s not just a pet—he’s family. He’s been a constant source of love, comfort, and companionship when I needed it most. Right now, I’m financially tapped out. My credit cards are maxed, and I’ve exhausted every option I have.

Here’s the most heartbreaking part:

I’m on a strict time crunch. If I can’t come up with the funds to begin treatment, I may be forced to make the unimaginable decision to euthanize Dexter as early as tonight. I’m doing everything I can to avoid that outcome, but I need help—and I need it quickly.

If you’ve ever met Dexter, you know how sweet and full of life he is. If you haven’t, I hope you can see from this story just how much he means to me. Anything you can contribute—no matter the amount—can make a real difference in giving him a fighting chance.

Thank you so much for your support, kindness, and generosity during this incredibly painful time. Please share this if you can. Every bit helps.

– Juanito & Dexter