Help Ernie Get the Answers He Needs

Our French Bulldog, Ernie, has been battling a serious neurological condition since February.

What started as subtle changes in his behavior progressed to seizures and weakness on his right side. Since then, he’s been evaluated by multiple veterinarians and veterinary neurologists, has undergone extensive testing, and now takes daily anti-seizure medication and prednisone to help manage his condition.

The challenge is that we still don’t know what’s causing it.

Based on his neurological exams, the leading possibilities are an inflammatory disease affecting his brain or a brain tumor. The only way to determine the cause—and make informed decisions about treatment—is with advanced brain imaging.

The cost of an MRI and the associated specialist care is several thousand dollars, which is more than we can afford after months of emergency visits, specialist consultations, medications, and ongoing veterinary expenses. Without imaging, we’re left treating his symptoms without knowing exactly what we’re fighting.

Asking for financial help is the last thing I wanted to do, but after exhausting the options we have, this feels like our best option to get Ernie the answers he needs.

If you’re in a position to help, we would be deeply grateful. If you’re not, please don’t feel any obligation whatsoever. We know many people are navigating their own financial challenges, and we completely understand. Simply sharing Ernie’s story, keeping him in your thoughts, or sending encouragement means just as much to us.

Any donations will go directly toward Ernie’s imaging and related diagnostic costs. If the imaging identifies a treatable inflammatory condition, it could significantly change his treatment plan. If it reveals a condition with a poor prognosis, it will allow us to make informed decisions about his care and ensure we’re doing what’s best for him.

Thank you for taking the time to read Ernie’s story and for any support you’re able to give, in whatever form that may be.