Hello everyone,

One of the most rewarding acts for me is to rescue a dog from an urban dog shelter. I have rescued dogs from the Los Angeles City Animal Centers over the last twenty years.

On May 10, 2025, I rescued this adorable Pomeranian-mix from the San Bernardino City Animal Shelter. I made my decision to drive to this shelter after viewing numerous websites for city shelters for many, many months. As with all my previous dogs whom I rescued, there was something in the dog’s eyes that drew me to each of them.

As soon as I met this dog in San Bernardino, I knew he would be traveling home with me on that same day. He was prancing around, smiling, and insisted on staying with me when I proceeded to complete the required paperwork. It was as though we equally found one another within minutes of meeting.

The unfortunate thing is my loving, sweet Ronan became ill within days thereafter. First, the vets believed he had acquired kennel cough. Treatment began right away. Within days, his symptoms did not clear but worsened. By the second week, after three additional visits to different veterinarians, Ronan was diagnosed with pneumonia. His medications increased to address this condition. The following week, the respiratory symptoms were not subsiding, and he began developing neurological symptoms. These include muscle tremors of the upper and lower jaw, legs, and back. These symptoms are characteristic of distemper. Further tests have been conducted to determine if he is positive for distemper.

Blood work was analyzed and a PCR test was conducted to determine which virus he might be carrying, including distemper. His blood work determined abnormalities that will be monitored over time.

Throughout these busy initial weeks with Ronan, I keep telling myself there is a reason he has entered my life. And he has demonstrated his gratitude by being so loving, kind, and to his best degree, resilient.

This altogether presents emotional, medical, and fiscal challenges for Ronan and me. We have attended six vet appointments, spoken with staff numerous days in between, and the cost of his veterinary care for his respiratory conditions thus far totals $3269.84.

During these appointments, it was also determined that Ronan has luxating patellas. His kneecaps are slipping out of place. The vet has determined that on a scale of one to four, Ronan’s condition is at stage three. Thus, he will require knee surgery to correct this condition. This surgery cost can be from $1500 to $4000 for each knee.

And it is for this reason that I have chosen to share my most challenging of situations with you. His conditions will continue in the near and distant future, and it is for all these reasons that I am hoping you might be willing to assist me with all well wishes, prayers, positive thoughts, and any financial gift you can offer. I will forever be grateful to you for your act of kindness. Thank you so very much for your consideration and any support you can offer for Ronan.