Oaken's Heart Needs Your Support

Last week, our sweet dog Oaken gave us the scare of our lives. Out of nowhere, he collapsed to the ground and stopped breathing. We rushed him to VSEC (Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center), terrified we were losing him.

Thanks to their incredible team, they brought him back — but we got heartbreaking news: Oaken has dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious and life-threatening heart condition. His heart isn’t pumping blood the way it should, and he’s at risk for more sudden, dangerous episodes.

Since then, Oaken has been started on multiple heart and anxiety medications. He urgently needs to see a specialist cardiologist for advanced tests and care to give him the best chance at more healthy, happy time with us.

About Oaken:

Oaken is the most loyal, playful, and gentle dog you could imagine. He absolutely loves playing fetch and running around with our kids — they’re his best friends. Right now, to keep him safe from overexerting himself, we’ve had to limit his movement. He spends most of his time in a crate, and while it’s for his safety, it’s making his anxiety so much worse. All he wants is to be with us and play.

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Why We’re Asking for Help — $5,000 Goal

Between the emergency care at VSEC, ongoing medications, and the specialist cardiologist visits and tests ahead, the costs are overwhelming. We’re hoping to raise $5,000 to cover:

• Oaken’s heart and anxiety medications

• Specialist cardiologist consultations

• Echocardiograms and diagnostic testing

• Emergency vet care already received

Every donation — no matter the size — will go directly toward helping Oaken get the care he needs.

If you’re able to give or share this page, we are so deeply grateful. Thank you for reading Oaken’s story and supporting our family during this difficult time.

— Hannah, Phil, Addie, Theo, and Grace