My name is Mary and Tonji is my 3 1/2 year old chiweenie. He is the dog I never knew I wanted, and he quickly stole my heart, becoming my emotional support animal after my daughter passed away. Tonji has been my companion and source of comfort during the hardest times of my life.

Chiweenies are known to have spine issues, and when Tonji was a little over a year old, he suddenly couldn’t stand on his back legs. I rushed him to the emergency vet, but they wouldn’t treat him unless I could pay $2,500 up front for an MRI and other testing. Unable to afford the cost, I took him home and worked with him every day. After about four months, Tonji regained, although not fully, the use of his back legs. Now, the symptoms have returned. This time, Tonji is in so much pain—crying and shaking uncontrollably at times. It breaks my heart to see him suffer.

I am asking for help to raise money so I can get Tonji to the vet for the testing and treatment he needs to feel better and live his best doggie life. I try to be a responsible doggie mom; all his shots are up to date. But being retired and on a fixed income doesn’t leave much for anything other than basic vet care. Please help me help Tonji. Your support means everything to us.