I’m trying to raise funds for my 9-year-old bearded dragon Ghost. Ghost has been my pet, companion, and friend his entire life. He likes to explore the front yard with me, climb on top of my head, rest on my chest for naps, and sunbathe with me on the trampoline. He’s been my emotional support and study buddy in high school and college. Whenever I felt anxious or sad, he helped me feel more relaxed and grounded. In the beginning of college, he and my pets felt like my only friends, and I liked coming home even more because of them. Just having him there made the nights less lonely. He’s been there for every moment I needed him, and it’s those little moments of him looking out at the world or just sitting with me that remind me of how much he’s been a part of my life and how much I appreciate him. I can't stand the thought of him no longer being there and having my dresser empty without his enclosure on it, in the place where it’s been for half of my childhood. His whole life I’ve tried my hardest to keep him in good health. Now is one of those times he needs me and I wanna be there for him.

In August, a bright orange bump started growing on his back. Since then, he’s become lethargic, lost his appetite, and shows signs of vision problems. I’ve been handfeeding him to keep him going but he barely moves and no longer acts like himself. Previous bloodwork, fecal tests, and antibiotics have only revealed anemia but no clear diagnosis or cause. It’s been hard watching him lose himself without answers. Ghost’s new vet has recommended more diagnostics and a CT scan to find out what’s wrong and how to treat him. The costs are overwhelming with more than $900 already spent, but I don’t want cost to stand between Ghost and the care he needs.

The estimate for the next round of tests is $1,340.87, and $2,681.74 with the CT scan. I’m setting a $3,000 goal to cover the tests plus any immediate follow-up care such as antibiotics, fluids, or dietary changes I’m expecting he’ll need after.

Reptile care can be hard to find and expensive. I want to give Ghost the best chance at recovery without letting money be the barrier that stands between him and his chance to live the full, comfortable life he deserves. If you can’t donate, I’d greatly appreciate sharing this. Your support gives Ghost a chance to get the answers and care he needs. Thank you!