This is my sweet pup Zeus. I got Zeus when he was just 6 weeks old, after losing my beloved dog Diesel to cancer. Zeus became part of my family because he was different—he’s polydactyl on both hind legs, and no one else really wanted him. From the moment I brought him home, he’s been so much more than a dog to me. He’s like my child, always by my side, and his happy, sunny personality has brought so much light into my life.

Zeus loves to run and play with our other dog, Métis. Recently, while chasing Métis through the yard, Zeus tore his CCL (the dog equivalent of an ACL in humans). Now, he needs surgery on his left hind leg. It’s heartbreaking to see him go from a joyful, active pup to lying still and in pain. After consulting with a specialist, I learned that the surgery has a high success rate if Zeus gets the right care and recovery time. The only thing standing in the way is the cost, which is much more than I can afford right now.

After surgery, Zeus will need physical therapy, medications, and a special brace to help him heal. The urgency is real—he’s struggling to walk and even stand. It’s always been hard for me to ask for help, but it’s even harder to watch Zeus suffer when I know there’s a way to help him. If you’re able to donate, I can’t thank you enough. If you can’t, even sharing this fundraiser is a huge help. Every penny and every share truly makes a difference. Thank you so much for caring about Zeus and helping us through this difficult time.