Help Save Our Beloved Milo

Hello everyone,

My name is Mikayla, and I'm reaching out in a desperate plea for help on behalf of our family and our beloved German Shepherd puppy, Milo, who we purchased from Elsass German Shepherds. Milo means the world to me, and his current health crisis has left us overwhelmed by mounting veterinary expenses that we simply cannot manage on our own. He is only 14 months old.

Our Story and Milo’s Ongoing Health Struggles

Since Milo’s birth, he has faced numerous health challenges. Over the past 12 months alone, we’ve spent a significant amount on his care as he has battled various medical issues. We were filled with hope when we brought him home, but his journey has turned out to be far more challenging than we ever expected.

A Recent Crisis: Rapid Decline

Last Thursday, February 13, 2024, Milo experienced a rapid decline in his health and well-being. We rushed him down to Hobart, initially suspecting a spinal injury. He was taken to North Hobart Veterinary Clinic as well as the after-hours emergency vet in Hobart, where euthanasia was briefly discussed as an option.

After a lengthy discussion with the veterinary team, we decided to perform a CT scan in hopes of finding a way to save him. During the CT scan, the team conducted a myelography and discovered that Milo’s spinal fluid was yellow and abnormal, raising concerns about meningitis. The vets suspect that he has a weakened immune system—potentially linked to an inherent genetic predisposition—which may have contributed to or exacerbated a fungal infection. However, his official prognosis is still unconfirmed; while the vets are leaning towards a fungal issue, it could also be related to an immune response, or even a bacterial or viral infection. Ongoing tests and analyses will hopefully confirm his diagnosis and provide us with a clear path forward.

Milo has been under intensive care since Thursday night, and his future remains uncertain. The recovery process may be long and challenging as the vets continue to determine the exact cause of his decline.

Recent Update

Update as of Saturday, February 15, 2024:

Milo has now been collected from the emergency vet and is in recovery at home. He is in good spirits and things are currently looking positive. We have another visit scheduled at North Hobart Veterinary Clinic on Monday, February 17, 2024, for a follow-up examination to assess his progress further.

Milo’s Life at Craigie Knowe Vineyard

Milo lives at Craigie Knowe Vineyard, where he is a cherished member of our extended family. Although he belongs to me, he is a beloved fixture at our cellar door and is adored by many of our guests. I am incredibly grateful to Glenn and Alex, the owners of Craigie Knowe, who have already stepped in to help by funding over $12,000 in veterinary expenses to support Milo’s care.

Our Urgent Financial Need

Since Milo’s emergency on Thursday, we have collectively spent over $8,000 on his care—a combined effort from Glenn, Alex, and myself—with even more bills expected as his condition is further evaluated and treated. The funds raised will primarily go toward covering future veterinary expenses, but if we are able to raise more than needed, some of those funds may also help offset the $8,000 we’ve already spent.

The cost of saving our little boy has escalated far beyond our means, and we are now at a point where we desperately need your help to ensure Milo receives every possible opportunity to recover.

How You Can Help

Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward:

- Covering ongoing and future veterinary expenses

- Paying for additional tests, treatments, and any necessary interventions to give Milo the best chance at recovery

Your support—whether through a donation or by sharing Milo’s story—will make a significant difference in his fight for survival. We are deeply grateful for any help you can provide during this incredibly challenging time.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for your kindness and generosity. Your support means everything to us as we do everything possible to save our precious Milo.

With heartfelt thanks,

Mikayla

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this campaign is based solely on my personal experiences and is accurate to the best of my knowledge. It is intended solely for fundraising purposes and to raise awareness about Milo's health crisis. No statements herein are meant to defame or harm the reputation of any individual or entity. All opinions expressed are my own, and any factual assertions are based on my records and recollections. This account is provided in good faith and is subject to applicable Australian and Tasmanian laws. Any legal matters will be handled through the appropriate legal channels.