Hi everyone,

Back in early 2020, Tyler and I decided to join the Covid-19 puppy train and found Kona at a breeder in North Carolina. Over the last 2 years we have celebrated so many milestones - moving into our first house, getting engaged and surviving a pandemic. She has been with us every step of the way and the best companion as I shifted into a work from home schedule. Kona loves swimming above all but also playing with sprinklers, wiggling her butt, playing with friends and eating lots of peanut butter. She recently turned 2 on 2/22/22, which was a Tuesday.

This April, our little pup was diagnosed with a bone cancer called osteosarcoma in her front left leg. The tumor was causing her lots of discomfort and manifesting as a limp. At first, we thought she just played a little too hard, but after a few weeks of no improvement, the vet called for x-rays. Unfortunately, they discovered a bone lesion, and we immediately scheduled an appointment with an oncologist.

 

Thankfully the osteosarcoma has not spread and remains just in her front left leg. In order to remove the tumor, we've made the difficult decision to amputate Kona's leg. Once her leg is removed, we will likely begin chemotherapy to help minimize the spread of cancer. However, this cancer is not curable, and most post-op dogs have a life expectancy of 12 months.

Kona's surgery is scheduled for Monday, April 11. We are hoping for a speedy recovery so she can swim all summer long!

 

At only two years old, we are shocked that this is happening. We expected much more time with our sweet Kona but are just trying to make her remaining time comfortable and keep her here with us for as long as possible.

We hope you will help us by donating to support the cost of surgery and chemotherapy or,  just send any words of encouragement as we navigate this difficult news. Any donation would help greatly and we appreciate all the love and kindness. 

 

Love - Joanna, Tyler & Kona