Kupono's Liver Shunt Surgery

Hi, my name is Kupono and I'm a full breed mini dachshund. My family brought me home at about 2 months old. They thought I was just a picky eater but I was actually struggling to digest and process whatever food they gave me. A lot of times, I would skip meals. It worried them. One day, I just didn't feel good and they woke up to find me on the floor, basically unresponsive. When I came to, I was at the emergency pet clinic and at just four months old, diagnosed with a large liver shunt. 

A strict prescription diet and starting with 4 different medications a day became the norm for me. I've been doing really good with the diet and medication over the last two months; lots of doctor appointments, medication refills, and trips to get my special food. I knew I needed to stabilize and gain weight to be eligible for the surgery. I did blood work last weekend and it looks like I'm ready.  There's only two doctors on the island that perform this procedure. From my understanding, it's kind of tricky; they need to close this shunt so my liver can filter the toxins out of my blood. Closing the shunt will cause pressure on my liver, so they won't know until I'm in surgery if they'll be able to close it all the way without causing too much strain on my liver. I'm really praying they can, and that my liver will be able to function completely normal after this. 

The doctor called today and in just 7 days, I'll be undergoing surgery to fix my shunt (and also my herniated umbilical cord that I was born with). This is estimated to be $5,000 - $7,000 on top of all my emergency visits, check up's, medication, special food and blood work all within the last two months. Thursday, the 27th is the big day. I wasn't quite ready for it to happen so fast, and I'm really hoping that this will allow me to live a long, happy life. I'm only 6 months old and have so much more to do and explore! I love hiking, playing fetch,  growling at randoms...  I'm still getting used to the ocean but I know one day I'll love that, too. 

I'm so thankful for any help that is given - my family didn't plan on me being this expensive, but they aren't going to give up on me. They tell me every day that I am a blessing and bring so much joy to our home. Thank you to everyone for your well wishes, prayers and support - it's truly appreciated and won't go unnoticed! All donations will go towards my procedure and any post op care that's needed.