Mili's Broken Leg

I'm Nikki and this is my puppy Mili. Most of you know me as lover of all animals and also that my personal pets have taken on the role of 'children' in my life. You might also know that I lost my closest baby, Kiji, in December due to a bad batch of dog food, unfortunately the recall was released a few weeks after his death. After extreme grief over this I decided my heart would best be healed by raising another puppy to try to recreate the bond I had with him. Mili has been the kindest, sweetest, most intuitive puppy I could have ever thought about finding. She has become a loving family member to me and Jazmin. Granny has even fallen in love with her! She has taken my severe depression and turned my world back into one I look forward to waking up to every day.

Last Saturday I was preparing for a short trip to take care of business in Middle Tennessee while Mili was playing in the back yard. I had my hands full of clothes, snacks, keys, you name it, but then I heard the most heart wrenching scream.. I dropped everything in a trail as I ran outside. Though the dogs were running toward her, none were near her,  I believe she just fell while playing. She was limping and her leg was dangling as she tried to get to me. I swooped her up and ran inside, calling my vet immediately. As I did I checked her leg. It was very obviously broken as it dangled and she continued to scream. I rushed her over to the office and they took her in as soon as we arrived. The x-rays and diagnosis came quickly. She has a broken elbow. Several potential options were discussedbut since it was Saturday,  she was splinted and then sent home to wait for Monday to come to start making a plan. It has been a rough few days to say the least. She is in pain despite the pain medications I am giving her. 

First thing this morning the attending vet from Saturday consulted with the other 2 vets at the practice.  Pinning her leg is not an option nor is splinting and healing on her own. Her elbow is too shattered.

My only option now is orthopedic surgery to fix her elbow. The joint is completely broken and offset and this is causing her immense pain. UT is the only one willing and able to work on her case right now. The cost estimate for this surgery is $4500 to $5000. She will go in tomorrow morning, April 5, 2021 for emergency surgery. 

This is so unexpected in a time when things were starting to go so well. This little puppy has done so much for me, I feel like she has literally saved my life after this last year. It is breaking my heart to see her in so much pain and despite this, she is still kissing my hands as I take care of her. I know this is a tough time for everyone right now but if you have anything at all to spare it will go a long way in helping us. I will post updates about her care and be open and transparent about all medical bills and costs associated with getting her better and free from the pain she is in.

Please share if you know anyone in a position to help us.

I thank you, Jazmin thanks you and most of all, Mili thanks you, from the bottom of our hearts!