Hey everyone, it’s Laura - Rusty’s Mum.

I’m not one to ask for help, but our sweet Texan boy has developed a neurological issue, (cause to be determined), that has resulted in full loss of neurological function to his hind left leg.

He was (incorrectly) diagnosed with a cruciate ligament rupture during his initial assessment. For the past 3 weeks we’ve been following a hopeful-healing 6 week protocol to aid in recovery, however he began to lose all function of his leg and has attempted to eat his toes on that paw.

I had his reassessment moved forward to today, (originally scheduled for March 19th), where after examination his vet determined that she made the wrong call at the initial assessment and his issue is neurological, not the tendon.

Rusty is going to require blood work, and X-rays of his spine and leg, (under anaesthesia), to determine the cause.

Once we have the results we will discuss next steps, which his vet has advised will likely be amputating his hind left leg.

This boy has been through A LOT.

Abandoned as a puppy with his brother on a riverbank in Southeast Texas, fostered by an amazing family, (Mama Renee and Papa Kevin), in Texas until he was ready for transport to us in Canada. He has been so so loved, spoiled and adored. The sweetest, most loving, emotionally in-tune boy you could ever hope to meet. Boundless energy!

But….his spark has faded and his energy is minimal. His best chance at survival and a long and happy life are the steps the vet has laid out: bloods and X-rays to determine the cause, and amputation as the likely solution.

Regaining neuro function in his leg is highly unlikely.

I’ve always carried my burdens on my own.

But, Rusty is not a burden. He’s family.

I thought I was saving him when we adopted him 4 years ago, but he was saving me, and he has continued to do so each and every day.

Now I need some help in saving him again. I’m doing everything I can, but this is a hit I wasn’t prepared for.

I have included photos of the quotes provided by his vet for his upcoming procedures.

General anaesthesia bloods & X-rays:

$768.47

Hind left leg amputation:

$2154.77

Everyone has something going on, and I get that. If it’s at all within your ability to help contribute to Rusty’s recovery, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you can’t - that’s ok too. Please just share and send your paw-sitive vibes his way. He deserves them.

I will continue to provide updates as we go along.

A heart-full of thanks from Rusty, Evan, and myself. ❤️