
Help Us Save Loki: Our Beloved Dog Needs Surgery
Donation protected
Dear Friends & Animal Lovers,
We're reaching out today with a heavy heart to share the story of our much loved Loki. Loki, is our 3 year old French Bulldog, for the past 3 years, he has been our constant source of joy, laughter, and unconditional love. Loki is facing a critical health condition that requires urgent medical intervention.
Loki has been diagnosed with a markedly compressive, densely calcified intervertebral disk herniation at the level of C3-C4. This condition is compressing his spinal cord and causing him significant pain and discomfort. Despite a course of anti-inflammatory medication (prednisone) and pain medication (Gabapentin & Trazodone) along with a month of strict bed rest, he continues to show signs of spinal cord dysfunction and persistent neck pain.
We were hoping that Loki's condition would improve with medication and rest. Unfortunately, the medication and bed rest didn't provide the relief we were hoping for. Without the Prednisone Loki remains in unimaginable pain and we can't bear to see him suffer like this. Prednisone is not a safe long term option for Loki, as it increases thirst and hunger along with causing loss of muscle mass.
After consultation with our family veterinarian, and two appointments with Loki's Neurologist, it is evident that the only treatment option for Loki that will bring him any quality of life, is to have decompressive surgery (ventral). This surgery will relieve the pressure on his spinal cord and give him the chance to regain his strength and mobility.
The cost of this surgery, along with the post-operative care, is beyond what we can manage at this time. We are reaching out to you, our friends and family, to help us raise $11,000 to help cover Loki's medical expenses. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to getting him the care and relief he desperately needs.
Earlier this year, we faced the heartbreaking loss of our beloved dog, Tanner, who crossed over the rainbow bridge in late January. Tanner was with us for 12 wonderful years, the bond we shared with him is irreplaceable, and the emptiness left in his absence is profound. As we navigate Tanner's loss, it is truly unfathomable to think about our kids experiencing the loss of another pet in the same year.
Loki is more than just a pet, he's part of our family, our fur baby. He has a playful and beautiful spirit, and we want to give him a fighting chance to return to the happy, playful pup we all know and love. If you can support Loki's medical journey in any way whether through a donation or sharing his story, we would be eternally grateful.
Break down of fees:
Initial vet appointment, examination and medication: $ 330.00
Blood work: $ 250.00
Urinalysis: $ 130.00
X-rays: $600.00
Neurologist appointment: $ 280.00
Neurologist Follow up appointment: $ 120.00 x 3
Pain Medication: $130.00 (per month)
CT Scan: $ 1,800.00
Surgery: $ 8,500
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for your kindness, compassion, and support during this challenging time.
For those of you who have requested more information on how to donate directly to the hospital:
Toronto Animal Health Partners
1 Scarsdale Rd.
North York, Ontario
416-380-7400 - Press # 4 for the Neurology Department and request to make a direct donation to Loki Ricker's Decompression surgery
In order for us to book his surgery, the vet recommends we have $9000.00 saved.
With love and gratitude,
The Ricker Family
Organizer
Paula Ricker
Organizer
Keswick, ON