Miss Pickles' Brain Tumor Radiation Fund

Hi Guys,

My name is Marg and I am Miss Pickles mom. After 1.5 months of weird symptoms Miss P had a big seizure on June 23. On June 25 we got the scariest news that any pet parent can get "Your dog has a brain tumour". Specifically the type of tumour Miss P has is a glioma and with radiation treatment we were given another 1.5 years with her but without treatment the prognosis is only 3 months. Miss P has her whole body CT scanned during this appointment and it showed only the tumour being inside her little sweet head.

Miss P is our heart dog and we would do anything for her and we opted to do radiation as we know its not her time to go. However, we encountered an obstacle in Ontario, as the waitlist to see a radiation specialist in Guelph is 3 months, which is unacceptable given the urgency of the situation. As a result, we have made the decision to seek treatment in the USA.

We reached out to approximately 20 radiation centers across the USA, and we finally received a response from California Veterinary Specialists. They have offered to take us as early as July 15th for 3-5 days of radiation. Some people may be surprised by our decision to travel such a long distance, but we have been advised that time is of the essence when dealing with a brain tumor, and treatment needs to begin as soon as possible. We are willing to go the extra mile for our girl because she deserves it.

I hate asking for help, but this year has been financially challenging for us. In February, Miss P aspirated during a physiotherapy appointment, and we spent two months going in and out of Vet clinics until she was finally cleared on May 3rd. I am also not working a lot as I am in my final year of nurse practitioner school where it entails me doing 800 hours of clinical hours which I am not paid for.

The cost of the radiation treatment has been quoted at a minimum of $11,000 USD. Being from Canada, our Canadian dollar is not in a strong position, which further adds to the financial burden. Additionally, we will be flying from Toronto and staying in Carlsbad, California for approximately a week, resulting in additional expenses.

If you are able to assist us, it would mean the world to our little family. There is no pressure, but any help would greatly alleviate the financial strain we are facing. Miss P is a true fighter and in her 7 years with us she has also overcome three mast cell tumours. We know she can overcome this new hurtle life has put infront of us