Support Copper's Journey to Beat Melanoma

I met Copper when he was only four months old. I found a little Bloodhound on Craigslist (eight hours away) listed “on sale” because he was the runt of the litter. His siblings were going for $400 and $500, but Copper? $50. As soon as I saw that goofy picture of little him watching TV, I didn’t even hesitate, I jumped in the car and drove eight hours straight.

When I met him, I knew immediately they had made a terrible mistake. He was much more than the runt, he was the best of the group.

I was only 20 when I brought Copper home. We grew up together. We navigated the messiness of early adulthood, the heartbreaks, the triumphs, and all the quiet in between moments. This dog has saved me more times than I can count. We’ve grieved together, laughed together, and carried each other through some of life’s most beautiful and most difficult moments.

We’ve moved across the country, lived in countless homes and apartments, had bunnies, kittens, and other dogs come and go, but through it all, Copper has been my constant.

He’s happy, energetic, and still acts like a puppy. So when a small bump in his mouth turned out to be melanoma, I was devastated. The vet removed what they could, but because of its placement, they weren’t able to get it all. There are still cancer cells in his mouth, and the only way to stop them from spreading is through a series of chemotherapy shots.

Copper needs four shots, one every two weeks for 2 months. Each one costs $1,000, totaling $4,000.

I never imagined being in this position. My heart is broken. Copper is not just my dog. He’s my family. And while he may not know he’s sick, I know time matters now more than ever. I want to do everything I can to give him the long, happy life he deserves.

If you know Copper, you love Copper. And if you’ve ever loved a dog like this, you understand the depth of this kind of bond.

Any amount you can give helps us fight for more time with him, more walks, more cuddles, more memories. I want him to finish out our 20s together. To grow old with us. And when his time comes, I want it to be because of old age and not cancer.

From our little family to yours, thank you for your prayers, your generosity, and your love. Let’s keep Copper with us.

And to anyone who has lost a beloved pet too soon, my heart is with you. The companionship, the loyalty, the silent love of a dog is one of the hardest losses there is.