Pls Help Chico Receive the surgeries needed to improve life

Hi, I am Danielle. I live in Seattle and have most of my life. Never had pets as a child, but as an adult, my first pets were 2 dogs. Never understood the love that develops with our fur babies; I never experienced having one of my own.

This is Chico. I brought him home from Cozumel, Mexico, a friend gave him to us when I visited 10 years ago. He is a Yorkie-poo. He came looking just like a Yorkie, black and tan, then gradually over time, he got white/gray like his poodle mother within a year.

Chico is a sweet boy, rarely barks unless startled or, of course, when he sees other dogs he desperately wants to be friends with. He loves to chase bunnies (he is fast), enjoys walks, loves his treats, of course, and cuddles. I am a nanny, so I am grateful that I can bring him to work with me every day.

Chico had this birthmark on his stomach, a distinct strawberry mark. Never gave him issues, so I was never concerned. A little over a year ago, I noticed it was raised a bit. I went to the doctor to have it looked at and was told that they could poke it and check to see if it was cancerous. The vet looked at it and said the cells did not appear to be mass cells. After this poke to extract tissue to check, the raised mark on his chest began to grow rapidly. I had it formally tested by a lab, and the results again said the cells do not appear to be cancerous. Recently went to the vet for a normal check-up.

They measured it, and it had doubled in size in 8 months. I didn't want to put him through surgery because it is not a simple cut-it-off situation. I thought that maybe since it was benign, he would just live with it because at the time, it wasn't so large. I wanted to avoid surgery. Sadly, it continues to grow. I am now seeing that it is affecting how he sleeps and moves. He is a very healthy dog; I hope he will live for many years to come. I am at the point that if it doesn't get removed, it will continue to grow and affect his healthy condition. He also has a enlarged prostate/fatty tumor that is beginning to effect his bowels. I am hoping that having his neutered will cause the prostate to get smaller again.

I am not one to ask anything from anyone, let alone a community. However, I know that I cannot afford this operation. I am a single nanny trying to make ends meet. Like most people, it can be a struggle. But for Chico, I am willing to do whatever I can to get him the help he needs. Our animals are so much more than just fur walking on four legs. They are our babies, our friends, our comforters in times of need, and the most selfless animals seeking nothing from us but love. It kills me to see him start to be uncomfortable and not as eager to run around.

Anything that you are willing to contribute would be so very appreciated. I am happy to update and show pictures of the developments. Many people know Chico and how very sweet and loving he is.