Hello,

I am Sharon and Kobe is my rescue dog. I'm only a few weeks from turning 84 which means my funds don't go very far. Caring for Kobe is more expensive than I thought and that's just for basic maintenance of a 58 lb. standard poodle. What follows is my formal request. Please read it and view the photo realizing I'm doing my best for him but I don't have the funds for the surgery he needs. I am asking for $4,500 which is more than the then $4,040 quote from Gamal Guirges, DVM but I'm requesting it because GoFundMe takes some funds and I don't know/understand how much that will be. Here is my formal request:

Kobe’s Fund-Raising Information

What is needed

• Kobe needs a TECA-BO (Total Ear Canal Ablation and Bulla Osteotomy) surgery of his right ear.

• This request is for $4,040 to pay for the surgery. The estimated cost of the surgery has ranged from a high of $14,000. We believe we have found the most cost-effective and qualified surgeon & location at $4,040. This fee includes approximately 2 weeks of daily post-op visits.

• All donation commitments are to be made to the veterinarian where the surgery will be performed:

o Baseline Animal Hospital, Gamal Guirges, DVM

o 9760 Baseline Road, #100

o Alta Loma, CA 91701

Why does he need surgery:

• Kobe is a male standard poodle rescue who was received in 2023 with an infection in both ears. The left ear responded to therapy, but the right one did not. He has been seen almost monthly since September of 2023 by Dr. Guirges who has done multiple ear treatments and ear cytology in an attempt to manage the right ear infection. He has been on antibiotics constantly since 2023. Tests have identified several bacteria causing the infection, one of which is MRSA. Kobe was unable to tolerate the one antibiotic that was the most effective against that organism. The infection(s) cause Kobe a lot of pain.

• Not only has Kobe suffered from the infections, but he has developed polyps that also cause pain and sometimes result in bleeding.

• He has been on pain medicine 24 hrs. a day as well as antibiotics almost constantly since September of 2023.

Options to surgery:

• To quote Dr. Guirges, “At this point, the only medical solution to relieve his pain is a procedure called Total Ear Canal Ablation and Bulla Osteotomy (TECA-BO). This surgery involves the complete removal of the ear canal and tympanic bulla (middle ear) leaving only the pinna (ear flap) remaining.”

• Kobe's left ear drum has already totally rotted away from the infections.

• Keeping him on antibiotics and pain meds long term will be detrimental to his health.

Why is Kobe important?

• One look into Kobe’s eyes and you’ll fall in love with him. He is stoic and very gentle. He is very protective and loving. He has a wonderful heart. He gives love and we love him.

• Please help us provide him with the medical care he needs. Any and all amounts we be appreciated.

Thank you and please commit a donation to the Baseline Animal Hospital (see above) in Kobe’s name.