Hi everyone,

We’re Katie and Mike from Chula Vista, CA, and we’d like to share a story that’s very close to our hearts — about our sweet Shiba Inu, Max.

Max isn’t just our dog — he’s our family, our joy, and our little heartbeat with fur. He’s 11 years old, but still has the energy and playfulness of a puppy. He loves his long walks, running free at the dog park, and playing at the beach with all his furry friends. He has been a constant source of love, comfort, and laughter through the ups and downs of our lives.

Last week, while getting his usual “zoomies” before his potty break, Max suddenly hurt his back right leg. My husband was watching him when Max’s leg went a bit sideways and he started to limp. We rushed him to the vet, hoping it was something minor.

After an exam and an X-ray, we got the news no pet parent ever wants to hear — Max has a torn CCL (a ligament in his knee). The vet said he’ll need orthopedic surgery to walk and play comfortably again. Because Max also has Cushing’s disease, he’ll need a specialized anesthesiologist to make sure he’s safe during the procedure.

Just the initial vet visits and X-rays have already cost around $1,500, and the surgery and care are estimated to be $5,000 or more. Unfortunately, we don’t have pet insurance, as Max has always been so healthy up until now.

We love Max with all our hearts. He’s been there for us through so many difficult times, giving nothing but unconditional love. We never imagined we’d have to ask for help — but for him, we’re humbly doing just that.

If you’re able to help in any way, whether it’s through a donation or by sharing this with others, we would be endlessly grateful. Every little bit brings Max one step closer to running free again and enjoying the life he deserves.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

Katrina, Michael & Max

UPDATE:

I want to thank each and every one of you who donated — your kindness and generosity went directly toward Max’s vet care, and we are so deeply grateful.

I wanted to share an update, though this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to write. On Tuesday, October 28th, our sweet Max had a very rough day. We had to keep him in a kennel to keep him from injuring himself further. Over the weekend, he unfortunately tore his other ligament, and we could tell his spirit was dimming.

When we brought him to his appointment with the orthopedic surgeon, our hearts broke — Max was slipping away from us. The doctor examined him gently, but Max didn’t respond; he was just tired and lifeless. We had to make the heartbreaking decision to help him cross the rainbow bridge.

This loss has been incredibly hard on my husband and me. We miss our little Bubbas so much — the house feels so empty, and there’s a tight knot in our hearts. Thank you all again for your love, support, and kindness during this painful time. It truly means the world to us.