Yuffie is my 9-year-old Golden Retriever/Akita/Jindo mix, my little girl and the dog who has been by my side through all of my life’s milestones. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed a mass growing on her lower front jaw and although she stayed her usual and crazy self, I had a gut feeling that it could be something bad.

The initial biopsy revealed that it was a benign cyst and could be easily scraped out. But after a CT scan and some x-rays, the veterinarian told me that it showed signs to be something more aggressive. The recommendation was to remove part of her lower jaw to prevent the mass from spreading and to send it to a pathologist for further analysis. Yuffie has undergone the procedure and is now recovering, but we’re still awaiting a final diagnosis. Additional treatments such as oncology care, imaging, and follow-up appointments may be needed. The financial burden has been immense, and I’m asking for help so I can keep fighting for her.

I keep coming back to the memories that remind me exactly who she is. The way she'd lose her mind with excitement the second I walked through the door, like I'd been gone for months instead of minutes. The way she'd shamelessly steal her brother's food the moment he turned his back. And even the way she’d go up to a stranger and immediately plop on her back to ask for belly rubs. That chaotic, joyful, unstoppable energy she brings to everything is what assures me that she’d have a speedy recovery and adjust fine with her half jaw. We just need to get there.

Any donation (no matter the size) goes directly toward her medical care. Sharing her story is equally valuable. Thank you so much for your kindness and support. It means everything to us.

Venmo: @ClaytonChin