Hello friends, family and kind-hearted strangers-

A few weeks ago, our family elected to “adopt” a 6 month old Basset Hound puppy named Ashlyn from an out of state breeder. We understood that she was special, as in a bit shy, small for her age (was only 19 lbs.) & not as active as a normal puppy (which was fine as we also have an 11 year old Basset), and had a tail anomaly (it looks like a hockey stick-but much cuter).

We were extremely excited for her to join our family, however just prior to her being delivered to us, we were told that she had a fall and x-rays were done on her front left leg as she was limping. The impression provided was that it was nothing serious, just to get her checked by our vet in a few days once some swelling went down. Based on that information, we took Ashlyn into our home and hearts.

We noticed immediately that her limp was very pronounced and that she could not walk or run for very long- even 50 feet was difficult for her- and she routinely falls as her left front leg just gives out. She was unable to make it up a small step (3 inches) and frequently does a seal move to lay down or just collapses. We also noticed her constant tears- indicating that she is/has been in extreme pain.

When we took her to the vet (a few days after the “adoption”) and after the examination and new x-rays, we were told that Ashlyn in fact has elbow dysplasia - a genetic/hereditary condition. We were immediately referred to an orthopedic vet and had a consultation. During the consultation, we learned that as the elbow dysplasia was not discovered nor treated earlier, it would require a full replacement of the joint as her growth plates were closing. We also learned that due to this untreated condition, she is not growing properly and it is very painful. The quote for the surgery came in at $7,117.94, which does not include the physical therapy, wound care or removal of the external screws, which is an estimated additional $2,000.

We would love for Ashlyn to live a full, pain-free life, which she can only do with this surgery, however we do not have the funds/pet insurance (which will not cover this preexisting condition) nor ever anticipated a minor fall to really be a genetic disease. We are asking for any type of assistance to cover the cost of the surgery so that Ashlyn may finally have the life she deserves and can be a real puppy. Thank you to everyone who is willing to contribute or share this message with others.

Best wishes-

The Lee Family