Keep Mya Walking Through Degenerative Myelopathy
Donation protected
“She’s always been there for me — now it’s my turn to be there for her.”
Help Mya Stay on Her Feet
Hi, my name’s Mark — and this is Mya. She’s not just my best mate and adventure buddy — she’s been a constant in my life, like any family member you couldn’t imagine being without.
My wife Michelle, our younger pup Max, and I are so lucky to call Mya family. Over the years, she’s done more than just tag along — she’s been part of every milestone, adventure, and quiet moment in between.
Together, we’ve travelled thousands of kilometres — from snow-covered mountains to forest trails and winding coastlines. Mya has hiked, paddled, skied, kayaked, and camped by our side every step of the way. She’s also been a steady source of calm and love through grief, change, and everything life has thrown our way.
But now, she needs us more than ever — and we need your help.
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Mya’s Diagnosis
Before we had any answers, we spent weeks visiting several specialist vets — trying to understand why Mya was suddenly losing strength in her back legs, stumbling, and struggling to walk. She underwent neurological assessments and CT scans as we searched for the cause. It was heartbreaking and confusing, watching her decline without knowing why.
Eventually, she was diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) — a progressive, incurable spinal condition that causes weakness and loss of coordination in the hind legs. Over time, it leads to full paralysis. It’s similar to ALS or Motor Neuron Disease (MND) in humans.
One of the hardest parts is that it hasn’t affected her mind — and it doesn’t cause pain. Mya is still bright, alert, and full of life. She doesn’t understand why her legs don’t work like they used to — and she still wants to do all the things she’s always loved.
Heartbreakingly, none of the available treatments for DM are covered by pet insurance.
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How She’s Doing Now
Two months ago, Mya couldn’t walk more than a couple of hundred metres without fatiguing. She would stumble, then end up dragging her rear legs and bottom along the ground. We weren’t sure how long she’d be able to keep going — and honestly, I thought I might have to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye.
But thanks to the treatments we’ve started — and her unshakeable spirit — she recently joined us for an 800-metre walk again. Her tail wagged the whole way.
She’s living mostly a normal life again — slower, yes, but still curious, determined, and full of love. That progress keeps us hopeful.
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What We’re Doing
We’re doing everything we can to give Mya the best quality of life for as long as possible. So far, her treatment includes:
Hydrotherapy, laser therapy, prolotherapy, and acupuncture
Chinese medicine and herbal supplements
Mobility aids like Biko Bands (which have already helped her walk further!)
An experimental peptide trial aimed at slowing the disease’s progression
Despite being nearly 13, Mya’s mind is sharp, her tail still wags at the sound of her lead, and she still insists on coming everywhere with us — even if it takes a little more effort now.
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Where Your Donations Go
Mya’s treatment plan is extensive and ongoing. We’re doing everything we can to slow the progression of DM and keep her moving — but it adds up quickly.
Here’s what we’re currently paying each month:
Experimental peptide trial: $673
CBD oil (vet-prescribed): $168
Spinal vet specialist visits: $238 ($115 covered by insurance)
– Includes prolotherapy, acupuncture, laser therapy, and use of the MiHealth device to promote healing
Hydrotherapy: $104
– Helps maintain mobility and limit muscle loss as Mya’s hind legs weaken
DM Formula supplement: $93
Protandim® Nrf2 Synergizer supplement: $83.75
NAC N-Acetyl Cysteine supplement: $13.75
That’s more than $1,200 every month just to manage her condition and give her the best possible quality of life.
We’ve been covering all of this ourselves so far — and while we’re committed to doing everything we can, it’s becoming more than we can manage alone. Despite paying $3,029.46 in pet insurance premiums, most of Mya’s treatment costs — including all of the DM-related therapies and medications — aren’t covered.
Every donation — no matter how small — helps support her care and gives her the best chance of staying mobile, active, and enjoying life for as long as possible.
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This Journey Has Never Been Ours Alone
For the past eight years, we’ve been lucky to share our life with Mya — not just on the trail, but online too. From pet-friendly travel tips and destination guides to honest updates about Mya’s own challenges — including her torn cruciate ligament and recovery from TPLO surgery — we’ve tried to create something useful and real for others who love adventuring with their dogs.
Over the years, this little community has grown into something really special. We’ve even had the joy of meeting some of you in person at meetups, where Mya (true to form) soaked up every pat and tail wag.
Now, as she faces this next chapter, we’re hoping this same community might continue to walk with us.
If anything we’ve shared over the years has made you smile, helped with your own travels, or reminded you of the bond you share with your dog — your support, in any form, would mean the world to us.
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How You Can Help
If you’ve ever loved an older dog — one who’s shared your best years and asked for nothing in return — you’ll understand why we’re doing everything we can for her.
Please consider donating, sharing, or even just sending Mya a kind word — every bit of support keeps her moving forward.
With love and gratitude,
Mark, Michelle, Max & Mya
Organizer
Mark P
Organizer
Melbourne, VIC