My name is Maria Johns. Normally, I don’t do anything like this; I’m the last to ask for a handout, but I’m desperate. My 1-year-old puppy has gotten some metal lodged in his intestines and needs immediate surgery to have it removed. He’s sick from it, and the animal hospital wants $11,000 upfront for hospitalization and surgery. I don’t even have $11 at this point. I’m calling around other hospitals and clinics to find a cheaper price, but I’m still looking at a few thousand dollars. I tried to apply for the vet credit but was denied. I’m desperately looking for help because if this surgery doesn’t happen ASAP, the metal could tear his intestines and he could die. The hospital told me if I can’t afford to do the surgery, I could think about putting him to sleep. He’s a puppy and part of my family. I can’t let that happen.