Hero Saved My Life—Now I’m Fighting for His

Hi, my name is Cassandra Boyer, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart.
My 7-year-old medical alert service dog, Hero, is not just a pet—he’s my lifeline, my world, and my constant companion. He lives up to his name every single day, offering unconditional love, support, and joy to everyone he meets. He truly is the sweetest soul, always trying to lift others’ spirits even when he’s not feeling well himself.

Back in mid-December 2024, Hero suddenly fell severely ill. He became completely unresponsive—it was the most terrifying moment of my life. I rushed him to the emergency veterinary hospital, where we stayed overnight. Multiple tests were run, but there were no clear answers. His symptoms were unusual and concerning, so we were urgently referred to a neurologist that same week. Since then, Hero has undergone extensive testing—neurological exams, X-rays, MRIs, a spinal tap—and still, no diagnosis. Just two weeks later, right after Christmas, he had another neurological episode that presented differently. At the same time, he began showing signs of spinal pain, weakness in his back legs, and pain in his back hips and knees.

Hero's condition is complex but I am not giving up. He is now under the close care of a neurology team along with his family veterinarian. Unfortunately, his journey is far from over. He needs additional scans, procedures, and possibly surgery, depending on what is ultimately found.

Hero isn’t just my service dog—he’s my best friend, my constant companion, and my guardian angel. He’s been by my side through some of the most difficult moments of my life. Through every challenge, Hero has stayed right beside me, offering comfort, strength, and unconditional love. He alerts me to medical issues before I’m even aware of them, allowing me to get help in time. Because of Hero, I’ve been able to regain a sense of freedom and independence I never thought I’d have. He’s not just a dog he’s truly my lifeline and my everything and I can’t imagine my life without him.

This past year has been incredibly overwhelming for us both emotionally, physically and financially.
Less than a year ago, I had to undergo a lifesaving surgery overseas, as the care I needed wasn’t accessible in Canada. The total cost was over $60,000 out-of-pocket, and I’ve been unable to work since, as I’m still recovering from this complex and invasive surgery, which comes with a notoriously difficult healing process. On top of my recovery, I’ve been struggling with complications and two additional conditions which have made daily life even more challenging and has further delayed my return to work.

Just a few months after my surgery, Hero became suddenly and severely ill. So far, his vet bills have already totalled nearly $10,000, and his journey isn’t over yet. Next Friday (April 18, 2025), Hero is scheduled for another round of diagnostics including X-rays, an MRI, and specialized bloodwork for his spine, hips and knees, which are estimated to cost another $5,000–$8,000. The weight of all this emotionally, physically, and financially has become too heavy to carry alone.

I hate having to ask for help, let alone ask for money, but I could never forgive myself if I couldn’t get Hero the medical care he so desperately needs and deserves. He’s always been there for me, and now it’s my turn to fight for him. After exhausting every other option and trying to figure things out financially on my own, creating this GoFundMe has become my last resort.

Donations will go directly toward:

• Specialist consultations (neurology, orthopaedics)

• Advanced diagnostic scans (MRI, CT, etc.)

• Medications and pain management

• Potential surgical procedures

• Rehabilitation and follow-up care

• Emergency veterinary visits

If you’re able to contribute—no matter the amount—it would mean the world to us. And if you’re not able to donate, sharing our story is just as powerful. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me fight for my best friend, my lifeline, my Hero.

***I can’t figure out how to post pictures of all of Hero’s medical bills on here but if anyone would like to see proof of how much his medical care has cost so far I am more than happy to provide them via email***

UPDATE (April 18, 2025): Hero's medical bills have now reached $15,000