Help us save Willow

If Camron knew I was doing this he would kill me but, we desperately need your help! 

If you own a pet, then you are probably all too familiar with the sound of a thumping tail against your door as you are approaching your home coming from work or that serenading purr as they rub up against you. Their presence becomes a part of who you are. That's why when tragedy strikes you feel like your whole world is ripped out from underneath you. When you can't meet the needs financially to get them the help they need you feel helpless, empty and feel as if you are failing them.....and in a way I guess we are. 

On Friday, October 5th, Willow's playful tactics caused his furry paw to be taken off by our mower. This caused severe injuries to his ankle resulting in no hope for reconstruction. Thankfully, some Good Samaritans stopped and helped Camron make a tourniquet to control the bleeding. Willow made it to the emergency vet and was immediately sent to puppy ICU in Orchard Park where he remains intubated, medicated to reduce his pain and under continuous care with an aim to diminish his bleeding. All surgeons were occupied at this time and our hearts sank when we were informed that he would have to remain in this state until surgery could be provided on Monday.

We were given two options: euthanize him or face a tremendous medical bill to get his leg amputated. Despite the vigorous effort of the veterinarian who was urging us to put him down, reminding us consistently that we would not be judged, we both looked at each other and said " we will do whatever it takes ". It's $1,300 dollars everyday Willow remains in the ICU not to mention the $6,000 they are asking for surgery. 

I cannot bear the thought of him not being here.

Willow is a three-year-old black lab. He has an uncanny ability to read emotions, resting his head on my neck when he knows I am having a bad day or sprinting from one end of the house to the other when he senses excitement (regardless of whether or not I have told him the news!), and not to mention, those adorable moans he makes, mimicking me, when I have to force myself to roll out of bed in the morning. He loves running by his daddy's side when he is driving his tractor, keeping all our chickens in line, hunting geese, but most importantly, sneaking into bed and stealing all the covers.

He has been the best thing that has ever happened to us. 

I hate asking for donations, but I'm scared and I'm at a loss for other options. Willow has so much more life to offer and if there is anything I can do to give it back to him I will. There is no way we will have the money to proceed with this long process and series of surgery and therapy. I know this is a lot to ask for, and I am thankful for every cent of help toward my pup getting a second chance at life. 

Thank you so very, very much for reading our story. We appreciate you greatly.

Love always,


Rachel, Camron & WILLOW