Hello, my name is Brenda and I am seeking support in the wake of my ESA, Bandit, passing.

Bandit turned 12 in December and was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure on New Year’s Eve. I knew that my time with him was limited, but I had hoped that he could stay for at least another year. At the start of this past weekend, his condition worsened and on Sunday morning, he was taken to an emergency vet. X-rays determined he had fluid in his lungs and he had to be in an oxygenated kennel as he was experiencing air hunger. While the vet suggested he stay overnight for observation and see a cardiologist in the morning, I could not afford to pay $3,000 - $4,000 in addition to what I already paid that morning. So the vet discharged him and prescribed him a diuretic that he never had the chance to take. Bandit passed away Sunday evening at home where he felt safest.

In a matter of a few hours, Bandit’s vet bills exceeded $1,000. While I had been making the necessary arrangements to pay for his care due to his condition, I was not prepared for this emergency. Any amount donated, no matter how small, will go directly towards his final vet bill.

Bandit had such a big personality and quite literally a big heart in such a small body. He met many people in his life and many have spoken about the impact he had on them. He wasn’t always just my ESA, but the community ESA, comforting people when they needed it most. My boy was so wonderful, and I am grateful I was able to share him with the world before he departed.