Save Dexter Frost

I've had Dexter since he was a puppy. He's five now, and he's having a little trouble. Dexter woke up yesterday and out of the blue became violently ill. He slowed down to about 1/4 speed, and vomited several times. He could not lay down, so he began pacing in the living room. He started having accidents in the house, and eventually began to violently shake. I knew something was wrong, so I immediately took him to the emergency clinic. After x-rays, and blood tests, the doctor came to the conclusion that Dexter's spleen had somehow twisted in his body, and that we were about to have to make some really difficult decisions. An emergency surgery that night would cost $6,500 (which I could not afford), or we could wait out the night and try to take him to our family vet in the morning, or worst of all, we could have him euthanized. What I thought was a bowel obstruction suddenly turned into one of my worst nightmares. 

We could not afford the surgery, so our only option was to take him home, and try to find a cheaper alternative the following day. The night dragged on forever. I stared at Dexter's chest all night to be sure he was still breathing. I was certain that he would die peacefully in his sleep, which was the only comforting fringe on the quilt of horror I was forced to endure. 

Finally the Vet's office opened, and Dexter was still alive. I got an immediate appointment, and brought him in

The Vet set an appointment with Cornell University Hospital for Animals, and I drove him there at once. I didn't care that the place was far away. That's who could help Dex, and that is where we went. 

After the Doctor verified via ultrasound that Dexter's spleen was twisted in his body, and needed to come out, they took him away, leaving me with a leash and a collar, hoping everything would work out, and that Dexter would be saved.            

He's there as I type this, waiting his turn in pre-op, anesthetized, and hopefully dreaming of being curled up next to me on the couch. 

I've never done this before. I've never asked anyone for money. I've always wanted to help, and to not be a burden to the people who love me. Now I am faced with the awful position of having to spend every cent I own to save my beautiful dog, or pay the mortgage, and the bills. I didn't have a choice. I would rather be homeless with Dexter than without him. So, I did it. I had to pay $1,100 last night for the tests, and put a $2,500 deposit on his surgery before they would save him. The surgery could be $7,000 in total. 

All money donated to this gofundme will go directly to Dexter's care, or replenish what has already been spent. Dexter means the world to me. Those of you who have followed us on our amazing journey through life have seen the importance he has as a cherished member of my family. If you can, please spread this far and wide, and if you can help, please do. Thanks very much for all you can do. I will never forget your kindness and generosity.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Love,                                                                                                                                                      Josh & Dexter