If you have followed Andrea's Instagram for more than 5 seconds, I'm sure you've seen the smiling face of her and Brett's beloved Pomchi, Keiko. Keiko is many things: a lover of forehead scratches, a fierce protector of All Things Andrea, a prince of his domain, just a l'il guy, and, currently, the owner of crappy knees that need expensive vet attention. But most of all, he's family. Just like Andrea and Brett are to all of us. So let's show them all some love and help get Keiko well again!

The situation

Andrea and Brett need help covering the costs of two knee surgeries and follow-up appointments for Keiko.

They have gotten word from their pet health insurance that the procedures Keiko needs for his health and comfort will not be covered. Given the loss of some of Brett's services because of the current federal administration, the large out-of-pocket cost of the surgeries is too risky for them to cover out of their emergency savings.

Can the surgeries be avoided or delayed?

Despite efforts by Andrea and Brett to avoid or space out these surgeries that they knew would be a possibility someday, a recent injury has accelerated the timeline in which Keiko needs care. In August, he likely tore his ACL. Since then he has been on pain meds and limited activity.

On October 30 (Andrea's birthday!), he will undergo surgery #1 to repair the ACL injury and have a 1-2 month acute recovery phase followed by ~6 months of regaining stamina and strength. Then he will undergo a second surgery to repair the severe luxating patella that contributed to the injury.

Keiko is an otherwise healthy dog, who is expected to live a long and sassy life if he can get this care that he needs.

How will donations be used?

Funds raised will cover the cost of both surgeries (between $3,500 - $4,500 each), medication, and Keiko's rehab. We expect approximately $10,000-$12,000 in total costs. Any extra funds raised will be put aside for future Keiko emergencies in its own HYSA.

We passed our first two milestones to cover most of the anticipated surgery costs! Our next milestone is $10,000, which would ensure both surgeries are fully funded and cover part of Keiko’s rehab and medication.

About the Sanow-Bellows

Andrea and Brett are incredible friends, allies, and community members. I'm sure many of the people reading this have experienced their generosity firsthand: whether they donated time, a meal, a service, or money out of their own pockets. They've rallied for so many causes and helped their community so much, I hope we can return that love to them and Keiko in kind and reduce the stress on their family during this emergency.

Thank you!