Hi ◡̈ my name is Ana, and my dog’s name is Oreo.

The story of how Oreo came into my life is really special. On December 24th, 2021, I found him in a parking lot running around smelly, matted, and all by himself. After making attempts to find his owner, nobody claimed him, and so our life together began. He became my Christmas gift from God.

Unfortunately, he came with health issues. All signs indicated that he was on the older side, but no matter what health obstacle he faced, Oreo got through it—swollen eye, dental problems, a scratched cornea, throat issues, and even blood in his urine. He is a warrior that, even in sickness, never withheld a tail wag or a kiss. Through every circumstance, he never cried or whined, which honestly makes it harder, because he could be in silent pain and I wouldn’t know it.

Oreo came into my life during a time when love felt far.

He showed me what love looks like without words just action. A love that keeps no record of wrong, no matter how many times I got him in trouble. A love that senses when I need support and comes to my side when I cry. A love that can’t wait to greet me when I get home. A love that is patient when I forget things or take too long.

He taught me how to slow down, how to practice patience, and how to be more responsible. He gave me a reason to smile through moments full of tears.

I’ve always called him my little angel because from the moment I got him, he’s just been such a good boy. He’s the sweetest, most obedient, loving, friendliest dog you’ll ever meet. Even when other dogs don’t like him or people keep their distance, he gives everyone the same treatment—a warm greeting, a wagging tail, and sometimes a humble request for belly rubs. There’s so much more I could say about Oreo, but those who have met him know exactly what I mean.

Sometimes I wonder if he would have been better off in another home, but I don’t know if I would have been better off without him. I don’t know what my life would look like without our walks, without his greeting in the morning, or without him waiting for me at the door when I come home. I don’t know what my life would look like without his silly moments or the way he makes my nephew laugh.

Many say, “it’s just a dog,” but he’s not just a pet—he’s part of my home. I know dogs don’t live forever; I just don’t want him to suffer while he’s here.

Right now, Oreo is dealing with a perineal hernia near his colon. It developed due to the strain while using the bathroom and hormonal factors. The vet explained that to repair it and prevent it from happening again, he would need to be neutered as well—making it a 2 in 1 combined surgery that costs about $5,000, which unfortunately I cannot afford.

Since his diagnosis a week ago, I’ve been searching for resources and praying that the Lord would guide me or give me the strength to endure what’s ahead. A sister in Christ reminded me that God cares about what I care about, and I’ve found comfort and peace in Him during this time—knowing that He is my refuge and my strength, and that as long as I have Him, I have everything I need.

I come to you firstly, with gratitude for taking the time to read this, and to ask ,if you’re able, would you consider contributing toward Oreo’s surgery?

If you can’t trust me I understand, can you pray instead ? That’s more than enough for me