If you know our family, you know Freddie.

He’s more than just our grandpup, he’s part of the heart behind Dogs Fur Life. Alongside our girls, Darby and Leia, Freddie is one of the letters in “DFL.” He’s been there through it all, always joyful, always loving, always ours.

We recently received heartbreaking news: Freddie has advanced lung cancer. At just six years old, we thought he and our grandson Maddux had many more years of fetch, cuddles, and growing up side by side.

Our hearts are shattered.

We're making sure Freddie is as pain-free and comfortable as possible during this time, giving him all the love he’s given us tenfold. He’s had multiple vet visits, including a trip to Texas A&M's animal hospital and Thrive Oncology in Mansfield, where he underwent a CT scan. We are not pursuing any advanced treatment, it is not an option, he is on two medications that he is doing well on that reduces inflammation and keeps him pain free. We’re so grateful for any support that helps ease the cost of his care, mainly the CT that was $3100.

But something else has been stirring in my heart.

For some time now, I’ve felt a quiet pull to do something more, something for humans who love their dogs like family. After much reflection, I now know what that is. I’ll be taking a multi-month certification course to support pet parents through the grief of losing a beloved companion. This won’t be a quick course, and I plan to continue into advanced levels of training. This does not replace the help of a therapist or counselor, but will provide support. The core of pet grief support is providing a safe and compassionate space for individuals to acknowledge their grief, process their emotions, and find healthy ways to cope with the loss of their beloved pet.

In Freddie’s honor, and one day in his memory, this pet grief support service will be offered at no charge to DFL clients-past and present. I’ll provide reading materials, Zoom sessions, and, most importantly, a listening heart. This won’t be a one-time gesture, your pups are forever a part of my DFL circle, and I will always be here for them... and for you.

This GoFundMe will help cover the cost of that course, and anything beyond that will go toward Freddie’s medical expenses. Receipts are available upon request.

We love you, Freddie. Thank you for being the goodest boy!

With love and gratitude,

Estella, Art & all our family