This is not something we ever imagined needing to ask, but here we are. Maui is our 14.5-year-old girl—a parvo survivor, a snow-zoomie enthusiast, and a dog who, until very recently, was jumping onto our bed and living life at full speed. Last week, she became acutely ill and was rushed to the emergency ICU, where she was diagnosed with a severely inflamed gallbladder and dangerously elevated liver values. Despite aggressive medical management, Maui’s gallbladder stopped functioning, and the surgical team determined that emergency surgery was necessary to save her life. Her gallbladder was removed, and she is now in critical care recovery, where she will remain hospitalized for several more days.

So far, her care has exceeded what we could have ever prepared for, with additional ICU days and the remaining surgery costs still to come. To make matters harder, our family has already been financially stretched—Julie was out of work for nearly four months this year, which significantly depleted our savings. We did not hesitate to approve surgery for Maui, but the reality is that the financial impact is overwhelming. Anyone who knows us knows how much we have given to rescue over the last 11 years—time, energy, resources, and heart—and asking for personal help does not come easily. But Maui is still herself: oriented, strong, and fighting. We believe she deserves this chance.

If you are able to help in any amount, or even by sharing, we are deeply grateful. Every dollar goes directly toward Maui’s emergency surgery and ICU recovery, helping us pay off the credit cards we used to save her life. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of the community that makes moments like this survivable. With gratitude and Husky Hugs, Pam, Julie, Hoku, and of course Maui.

Maui update

We have some really good news to share. After a full day of no movement, Maui’s bilirubin has dropped dramatically — from 12.9 down to 2.6 over the last three days. Her liver values have continued to improve, she’s finally well hydrated, and she’s more herself now that some of the heavier meds are off. We are cautiously optimistic and so grateful to see her turning a corner.

The not-so-great news is that her continued ICU care has added another $5,000, and she’ll likely need at least another night or two if things keep improving. It’s a lot — but right now, progress is the priority.

We are incredibly thankful for the support so far. We’ve raised $950 already, and every single dollar, share, message, and kind word has meant more than we can say. Truly — thank you for helping carry us through one of the hardest weeks we’ve ever had.

Maui is fighting, and because of you, we can keep fighting with her.

With love and Husky Hugs, Pam, Julie, Hoku, and of course Maui.