Need help and advice. Don't know what to do.

My best friend, an 8-year-old emotional support dog named Primo, is currently having some medical issues. He is nearing the end of his treatment. He had his right eye removed, and it was found to have a cancerous mass. Further examination through a CT scan found that there is a mass in his right lung, which is cancer. He only has this one mass in his lung; there are no others. MSU Veterinary Hospital recommends removing the mass, and he will be cancer-free.

About me: I am a disabled veteran and a recovering addict with 11 years clean. With the help of my Higher Power, I have been able to change my life 180 degrees. Ten years ago, I was homeless, living in a shelter with my dog. I had nothing but the clothes on my body and my commitment to become a better person to myself and society. After four years of building a relationship with myself, my Higher Power, and society, I was able to purchase a home and a car. Life is great. I commit my time to helping other recovering addicts change their lives. I bring committed men and women into my home who have a desire and the motivation to step up, stand out, and better themselves. I do not ask them to pay rent until they get on their feet. As long as they are able to meet me halfway, I will be there to help. Someone did it for me 11 years ago. I have been able to save up and make ends meet. My word is the most important thing in my existence. I have been able to find a new way to live, and I share my experience, strength, and hope with others. If I can do it, so can you.

Here is where we are stuck. After all the medical attention and needs of Primo, enucleation of the right eye, and all the costs coming to that conclusion, the CT scan, and all other testing, I have drained my savings and extended my credit. So far, his medical bills are $12,000, all paid as of today by using Care Credit. He is in need of one final surgery to remove the cancerous mass in his right lung. The surgery estimate is $6,000 to $9,000.

I have had other Dobermans, and they have lived to be 13 years old. If I get this surgery, it will hopefully give Primo another five years. Without help, it would put me in financial hardship. I have not done a GoFundMe account as of yet out of embarrassment. With most of the medical bills being paid for, this next $9,000 will break me. I have learned the importance of becoming self-supporting and declining outside contributions. I also understand that if the time comes and you need help, it's okay to ask for it, and I know that once that help arrives, you don't get to walk away from it.

It's a lot more than $9,000 for five years. It's the emotional bond and loss that has me sick.

If this fundraiser is successful, all remaining funds will be paid forward to MSU for the next person in need.