Mackie-Moo Needs the Melanoma Vaccine to Live!

McAllister Olivia Maines (a.k.a. Mackie-Moo), my 9 year old Miniature Schnauzer, started licking her paw a few weeks ago. Like constantly! I started to get concerned so I took her in to see Dr. Adam Foret at University Veterinary Hospital (UVH). He found a little bump on her nail bed which nearly overnight grew into a big bump.

After sending off a sample, he learned it was cancer and the best line of defense was amputation of that toe. He thought she would heal and her life would go on, chasing her favorite red ball around the back yard as though nothing had happened. Nine days after the surgery, the pathology report revealed the cancer is in fact melanoma which is known to be very aggressive. Without additional treatment, in 6 short months or less, she would likely no longer be around to be my little shadow.

Good news is, there’s a highly effective melanoma vaccine that could add 3+ years to her life! But it’s cost prohibitive to this self-employed freelance artist. It requires 4 initial shots spaced 2 weeks apart - each of which is $700, then followed by 4 more booster shots (same cost each) spaced 6 months apart with additional X-rays (additional costs). She just had the $2K surgery July 20th and now we see it’ll take another $6K to give her a chance at living. CareCredit won’t stretch any further. And the kicker…I’ve had major medical insurance on her since she was born and now they won’t cover this. But I can’t go there.

So what it boils down to is that I’m looking at losing her soon unless some generous and kind-hearted friends come to her rescue. As humiliating as it is to even have to ask, would you think about - pray about - helping me keep my constant companion at my side a few more years? Her treatments need to start immediately to get active in her immune system. Every dollar helps me continue her treatment course. And telling others you know who understand the bond we enjoy with our pets would be so tremendously appreciated. Just hit the button above to share on your social media accounts if you would. She’s my EVERYTHING!

She has promised a lick on the face to all who help her cause. I promise not to! But I seriously will ask for extra jewels in your heavenly crown.

With all my thanks I am humbly,

Janet