My Sammy James

Sammy needs surgery. Sammy James first came into our lives 12 years ago as a feral dog whom we were eventually able to trap. He was a snarly, emaciated, but cute little guy, and it took several days for him to trust us enough not to take our fingers off! That first real touch, though, is an unforgettable memory because he melted into my hand and eventually my lap and has been a cuddle bug ever since. First, there were three, including Sammy, and then two, and now he is an only dog (Daisy and Little Bit passed away ten and one years ago, respectively). I know he loves being an only dog, as he has been thriving.

But since last year, when we first learned of his medical struggles with his liver and gallbladder, there have been some tough, scary times. He has now been to a specialist three times this year, and the good news is that there have been some positive improvements; his liver values have been returning to normal, and his liver is not as swollen as before. The gallbladder situation is stable now, and with new meds, we hope that that situation will also begin to turn around. While it has been more a blessing than not, it has been an expensive journey. The truth is, Sammy behaves like a puppy again, running around, playing with stuffies, tearing up paper towels, and always smiling, always wagging his tail.

This past week, a small lump he has had removed twice before but eventually grew back suddenly started growing very large. His specialist noticed it late last month and said it needs to be removed and to see our regular vet. Our regular vet, Dr. Lee, agreed a couple of days ago, as it has continued to grow. She noted that the nearest lymph node is enlarged, and she took some biopsies. I was prepared for the worst but praying for a positive outcome, inviting many of you to join in praying for the best results. We got the great news a day later that there is no cancer! But the lump must be removed because it's taking over his foot. Dr. Lee and his internist, Dr. Strasser, also said he would need to lose his toe in the process. Fortunately, it's not a weight-bearing toe, so it would not disrupt his ability to walk post-surgery. It's an outpatient surgery, and it is scheduled for the Friday before the week of Thanksgiving so that I can be home with him as he recovers and adjusts post-surgery.

The hard part, however, is asking for financial help. I've always prided myself in being able to cover vet expenses through the years - that's part of being a pet owner. But this year, in particular, the costs have taken more than expected and compounding.

The estimate for surgery runs from $2400 to just under $3400, depending upon the variables that come with surgery. Sammy will see his internist the day before surgery to ensure that his liver and gallbladder situations remain stable. The typical cost for that visit runs about $600 because of the testing involved.

I have checked with both facilities, and they said anyone could contribute directly to them on Sammy's behalf. I am providing their contact information here, and the most important thing is to give my name and Sammy's name so that they can apply the funds as a credit toward the surgery and visit.

Surgery: Brentwood Family Pet Care (Brentwood, CA) (925) [phone redacted]

Pre-Visit w/Internist: Sage Veterinary Center (Concord, CA) (925) [phone redacted]

I truly appreciate anything you can donate toward Sammy's surgery and pre-surgery vet visit, whether here on this platform or directly to the facilities. I will continue to post updates here.

Of course, we welcome your prayers - You are a blessing to us!