To Past, Current, and Future Friends of Bear, the German Shepherd Dog at Willapa Bay Heritage Farm,

Many of you reading this already know Bear.

You may have met him on the farm or at the farmers' market, maybe walking the streets of Long Beach. Maybe he has warmed your heart like he has mine.

A big, handsome, goofy, slightly cross-eyed boy who thinks anything, literally just about anything, can be made into a fetch toy. A twig! A leaf! A blade of grass!

He loves everyone, and he makes so many people smile. He's my best friend, who has been with me through nine of the most difficult years of my life.

Through pandemic, divorce, returning to Washington, and three major surgeries, he's kept me moving, gotten me out of bed, made me smile and laugh, and been my constant companion.

Well, now my big, friendly, loveable sweetheart is in trouble. I need your help, he needs your help. I'm so scared right now.

Bear has a large mass that appears to be pressing on his spine and causing neurologic issues, mainly back leg instability. He’s suddenly very wobbly and falls to one side. To pinpoint the exact issue, he needs tests that will cost more than I can afford at this time, but I can't delay next steps or else risk worsening his situation.

So I'm asking friends of Bear for help. This is hard for me to ask, as I know times are difficult for many. I am grateful for your prayers and any contribution, big or small, you can spare to help my friend.

His care will begin at Oceaside Animal Hospital. Regardless of Bears' outcome, any excess donations will be donated to the Pacific County Humane Society in Bears' name.

With immense gratitude for your support,

Heather and Bear