Saturday morning began with one of Rooney’s favorite things: an “adventure walk” with me and his dog mama, Cede.

A few minutes later, our world was rocked by an unleashed, unsupervised Pitbull who lunged across the street and attacked without warning. Fiercely protective, our brave 20-pound boy took the brunt of the attack. I was bitten multiple times freeing him from the dog’s grip, but my injuries are comparatively minor because of Roo.

Now our perfect boy is in the ICU, fighting for his life — and I am humbly putting pride aside to ask for help with the overwhelming cost of his care.

Rooney has already undergone emergency surgery to repair catastrophic internal injuries, including the resection of portions of his intestines. He remains in critical condition at a Level 1 veterinary trauma hospital, with more intensive care, possible additional procedures, and a long, uncertain recovery ahead.

With the support of selfless family and the full use of his pet insurance, we have covered his $15,000 surgical deposit and have been told the cost of his continuing care may reach or exceed $55,000.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward Rooney’s emergency surgery, secondary surgeries to repair extensive tissue damage from two additional bites, his ICU stay, hospitalization, medications, additional procedures, and recovery care.

Anyone who knows Rooney can see he is pure love — gentle, intuitive, loyal, and deeply devoted to his mama Cede and his cat siblings, Mabel and Otis. And while asking for support is incredibly hard, I would do — and sacrifice — anything to honor and fight for him.

Any donation, share, or well wish for the very best boy means more than I can possibly say. We are so moved by your generosity and by our amazing neighbors, family and friends who dropped everything to support us on our very worst day.

Thank you for helping us give Roo his best shot at the long, happy life he deserves.

With eternal gratitude,

Melissa, Lee & Cede ♥️