Help Walter, a Young Therapy Dog, Get Life-Saving Surgery

Help Walter, a Young Therapy Dog, Get Life-Saving Surgery

Hi, my name is Walter. I’m an 18-month-old phantom, parti-colored standard poodle. My mom is a retired veterinarian who has raised me with love, training, and purpose since I was 9 weeks old. God gave me the gifts of beauty, intelligence, and a heart full of unconditional love.

By 11 months old, I earned my American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Basic and Advanced Community & Urban Awards. At 12 months, I became a certified therapy dog through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs—and I’ve even learned service dog tasks to help my mom during one of the hardest years of her life.

Over the past year, I’ve been by her side through a divorce, a cross-country move, and her breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, and ongoing treatment. Even through those hardships, my mom has continued living out her dream of giving back to the community—with me by her side.

For the past 7 months, we’ve volunteered 3–4 days a week visiting senior communities across Birmingham, Alabama. I love all people and have brought joy to countless seniors in independent, assisted, and memory care facilities. I walk proudly through the city, bringing smiles to everyone I meet—and I even have my own Instagram: @walterloveslife. My mom also shares advice about pet care, training, and health every time we’re out.

But now, I need your help.

One month ago, we noticed blood in my urine. After one local vet visit, testing revealed I have bladder and urethral stones—and likely more serious problems. On May 5th, we went to the University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital, hoping I could have a non-invasive procedure. Unfortunately, imaging showed I have an abnormal left kidney and ureter with fluid, possible stones/scar tissue or an obstruction in my left kidney and ureter, causing severe damage.

Now I need urgent surgery to remove bladder and urethral stones, and possible removal of my left kidney and ureter. There’s a more advanced procedure that could save my kidney, but it’s very expensive—and even with insurance, my mom can’t afford it. She’s already spent over $15,000 to train me as one of the youngest certified therapy and service dogs around—because helping others is our mission.

Our fundraising goal is $15,000, which will go toward:

- Advanced surgery and kidney evaluation (scheduled for May 9th)

- Diagnostic imaging and specialist care

- Lifelong prescription diet and medications

- Regular vet checkups and testing

Please consider donating or sharing. Every bit helps save my life so I can keep doing the work I love—bringing comfort, joy, and healing to others.

Thank you for supporting me and my mom. We believe God will provide through the kindness of our community and beyond.

With love and gratitude,

Walter & his mom