Help Save Toby, Our Loyal Companion

Hi everyone,

I’m usually someone who avoids asking for help. I think of myself as a "grit and get through it" kind of gal. But today, I’m reaching out with a heavy heart and a bit of hope.

Late last night, our beloved dog Toby suffered a sudden medical emergency that required immediate veterinary care. Toby is not just a pet, he’s family. He’s been our loyal companion for the past nine years, a constant source of support through life’s ups and downs. The joy and peace Toby brings to our lives can’t truly be put into words.

It was cooler last night, so my husband and I took Toby for his usual bedtime walk. As we were heading home, he suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness. He regained it quickly, but his breathing was dangerously fast (84 breaths per minute, well above the emergency threshold of 55/minute). We rushed him to the emergency vet.

The veterinary team has been wonderful, but the costs have added up quickly: X-rays, blood work, heart ultrasound, and treatments. Toby isn’t in pain, but he urgently needs these tests and treatments to stabilize him and start life-saving medication.

The vets are optimistic that, once his heart ultrasound is complete, we can begin a treatment plan that will allow him to live a happy, relatively normal life. After all the loyalty and love he’s given us, we can’t turn our backs on him now, even if it’s financially difficult.

The immediate care totals around $3,300. We’re grateful to have an emergency fund to help with that, but ongoing care (medications, a special diet, and follow-ups) will be a continuing expense. These are costs we’re committed to shouldering, but we’re asking for help to lighten that load.

If you’re able to contribute, even a small amount would mean the world to us. And if you’re not in a position to give, sharing this with others would be a huge help, too.

Thank you for reading, and for caring. Your love, support, and kindness mean everything to us.

With gratitude and love,

Jonathan, Ashley, and Toby