Support Penelope's Fight Against Paralysis

If you know Penelope, you know she’s my whole world. She’s not just my dog. She’s my best friend, my comfort, and my constant. She’s been by my side through some of the hardest parts of my life; the kind of moments I wouldn’t have made it through without her.

Right now, she’s losing the use of her back legs. She has IVDD, a spinal condition that’ worsens rapidly due to inflammation her breed is prone to. This morning she walked downstairs with me. Tonight she can’t stand. I’ve been doing everything I can to keep her still and medicated, but she needs x-rays and surgery immediately or she could be paralyzed for life. Dogs with IVDD need to get surgery within 24–48 hours for the best shot at recovery.

I’m a recent college grad who is navigating this reluctantly tough job market. I’ve exhausted every single option like calling vets I know, low-cost clinics, nonprofits, filled out assistance forms, and applied for as much assistance as possble. I’ve looked for secondhand carts, rescue referrals, and home treatment plans. I’m trying everything. But time is running out and this is my last resort.

Penelope is the kind of dog who makes people stop and smile. She came with me to Lab and she sat by me during undergrad. She’s been part of so many lives, not just mine. To me, she’s the one thing that helped me feel okay when nothing else did. She’s my heart.

She still wags her tail when she hears my voice. She still tries to crawl toward me when I get close, even though it hurts. She’s fighting so hard, and I am too. I’m doing everything I can, but I can’t do this part alone.

If you can help in any way ~ by donating or sharing ~ it could save her life. I just want to give her the chance to walk again.

Thank you endlessly; whether you're able to donate, share, or simply send love our way. Every bit of support means more than I can express.