SCOUT NEEDS YOUR HELP- FIGHTING CANCER

 

Help My Beloved Dog Scout Fight a Brain Tumor and Recover from Knee Injury.

Hello everyone,

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to ask for support for my dog, Scout. Earlier this year, Scout was diagnosed with seizures that ultimately led to finding a brain tumor. As if that wasn’t enough, she recently tore a ligament in her knee and now needs TPLO surgery and extensive rehabilitation to regain her mobility and reduce pain.

Scout has been by my side since she was 10 weeks old, offering unconditional love, comfort, and companionship. She’s been with me through some of the hardest times in my life—losses of loved ones, pets, and relationships I thought would last forever. Though her name is Scout, she has many nicknames—Pup, Pooh, Scooby, Scooter, and most often, Monster. Over the years, I have made many moves and lived in a lot of places, but Scout has always been my constant.

Scout and I love the water, especially the ocean; it provides a sense of calm and peace to both of us. Scout, a true water dog, has never met a beach, lake, or puddle she didn’t want to splash in—though oddly enough, she refuses to enjoy a bath! Her playful, stubborn spirit has kept me going all these years, even after losing my oldest cat, Maillot, two years ago. Maillot and Scout were always together from the day I brought Scout home until the day she left us. They were the best of friends, loving but always jealous of each other. My favorite memories of the two of them were snuggling up on the couch on a cold day with a pup tucked behind my knees, a cat tucked under my chin, a warm blanket, and a good book. Scout took that loss just as hard as I did, always watching over me to make sure I was okay.

At 13, she still treasures her favorite toys—her long-legged chicken, her turtle, a pony she’s had for years, and her first toy, “Baby,” which she’s loved to pieces over the last decade. Baby may be worn down, but it still brings her comfort. Scout loves chewing on bones, figuring out new treat puzzles, and taking long naps. Scout is relentless when it comes to playing—especially fetch or tug. I’ve had to hide her frisbee and tennis balls at times because she’ll never give up until she gets what she wants. Her determination is both admirable and exhausting! These days, she spends more time lounging in the sun, sometimes with her friend Mike (my parents adopted him, and he looks almost like her twin). Together, they compete for my dad’s attention and always try to be the one sitting in his recliner. Scout has a huge love for snow—she’ll bound through it like a puppy, despite getting cold easily. She also loves food—watermelon, carrots, and peanut butter are some of her favorite treats.

Scout has been my rock through the darkest days of my life. There were moments when getting out of bed seemed impossible, but Scout gave me purpose. Her wagging tail when I come home, her gentle nudges when she senses I’m feeling down, and the way she listens as if she understands every word. Most of all, I cherish her constant presence, especially on lonely days when her company is all I need to feel better. Scout is more than a dog. She is my best friend, my confidant, and my reason to keep going.

Scout’s Battle with a Brain Tumor

On January 28, 2024, Scout had her first grand mal seizure, which sent me rushing to the emergency vet with her. More seizures followed, and after a series of tests, I learned the devastating news—Scout had a large brain tumor. Surgery wasn’t an option I wanted to pursue due to the risks, so I opted for radiation therapy. Scout bravely endured three consecutive days of treatment, and thankfully, the radiation along with medication has controlled the symptoms of her tumor, including the seizures. Her reports are positive, and she continues to amaze her vets with her strength and resilience.

Our Next Challenge: TPLO Surgery

In September 2024, Scout tore a ligament in her knee—a common injury for older dogs. She now struggles to put weight on her leg, but TPLO surgery, along with rehabilitation, gives her the best chance at recovery. Her vet expects a 90% improvement in her mobility, allowing her to get back to enjoying life as she always has.

Even with a brain tumor and a knee injury, Scout’s spirit remains unshaken. She still tries to play tug-of-war with her favorite toys and refuses to leave the car after vet visits until she gets her cheeseburger or pup cup. She has so much life left in her, and I’m determined to give her the best chance to enjoy her golden years.

Why I Need Your Help

The medical expenses for Scout’s treatment are overwhelming. Between emergency visits, diagnostic tests, radiation therapy, and now the TPLO surgery and rehab, I can no longer manage it all alone. I’ve done everything I can, but now I realize I need help to give Scout the care she deserves.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs:

• Emergency vet visits/hospital admissions: $8,000

• Neurology consult: $350

• Radiation oncology consult: $350

• MRI and diagnostic tests: $3,000

• Radiation therapy: $4,000

• Follow-up MRI and consultations: $2,500

• TPLO surgery: $6,000–8,000

• Post-op care: $2,500

• Medications: $2,500

• Rehabilitation: $3,500

My Goal

I am hoping to raise $35,000 to cover the costs of Scout’s care. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a huge difference. If you’re unable to donate, sharing Scout’s story would mean the world to me.

How You Can Help:

• Donate whatever you can—every little bit helps.

• Share Scout’s GoFundMe link with your friends, family, and on social media.

• Keep Scout in your thoughts and prayers as she continues her recovery.

Scout has been my rock through life’s darkest moments, and I’m so grateful for any help you can provide to give her the fighting chance she deserves.

With love and gratitude,

Carrie & Scout

So much has happened in the past few months -please check updates for the latest in all thing Scout.