On July 3rd, Bella was up sick most of the night. By the 5th, she stopped drinking and eating so I took her to the closest ER. Bloodwork indicated pancreatitis. She was treated and seemed to get slightly better. On July 7th, she seemed to have relapsed so I made an appointment early on 7/8. She had an obstruction that caused a blockage and needed emergency surgery to save her life. The estimate was $7500 on the low end and I have about $7000 in health coverage left for her so we went ahead. Complications led to more nights in the ER, a feeding tube, etc. She is still fighting and I do not want to give up on her. Current estimates are $14,000 - 16,000 (before insurance). Maybe slightly less if she improves tonight.

I don’t expect many people to understand my love for my dog. At times, my love for her was more than life itself. She is my everything. A week ago she was running around, paddle boarding, swimming and living her good older lady life and I think she has a lot of life left.

I don’t want anyone to feel pressure to give. But I do appreciate anything. Good vibes and prayers are welcomed too. If I raise more than I need (by some miracle) I promise to donate to the other families I have been seeing in the ER over the past few days.

If you are not a true donator but interested in buying a bike, Rav4, used camper van, plant or otherwise - let me know. I can also do yard work, clean houses, bike maintenance, review grants and probably a few other things too. Thanks for reading this far.

To those who think “it’s just a dog” - I feel really sorry for you.