Sasha and Nelson: A Best Friend's Plea

Hello, my name is Sasha, and I am 17 years old.

When I was 6 years old, I saved up all my birthday money to buy my dog, Nelson. For 11 years, Nelson has been my best friend. No matter what I was going through, I knew when I got home that Nelson would be there to comfort me. Nelson has always been a strong dog and would never whine about anything. He loves to cuddle with us and go on long walks or runs, but lately, Nelson has had problems walking. It started out slowly, just asking to be put onto and off the bed or carried up and down the stairs, but now Nelson is unable to even go on walks. He is unable to pee or poop and immediately falls over, hurting himself even more. After an x-ray at the vet, they decided that Nelson most likely needs surgery on both his legs due to a groin, luxating patella, and ACL issue. Unfortunately, this surgery is quite invasive and would require 8 weeks of recovery for Nelson. I am starting college this fall, and I am working two jobs this summer to try to pay for Nelson’s surgery while also paying for bills and my education. My mom is my only parent, and she is an immigrant, so while she is constantly working, she is unable to afford this.

Nelson is my best friend, and watching him suffer in constant pain is breaking my heart. He went from being a happy, playful, and loving dog to being depressed. He just lays around all day and doesn’t even come to greet me at the door.

I would appreciate any help for my best friend. Please and thank you.