Tofu’s Story
Tofu needs unexpected surgery after a scary accident that no one could have anticipated.
While being kenneled briefly for her own safety (a decision she strongly disagreed with), Tofu managed to chew and swallow her necklace. Soon after, she began struggling to keep food down, which landed us at the vet. During her initial visit, imaging revealed she had ingested 18–20 silicone beads (12mm each). She was admitted for observation while we waited for the emergency vet to open, with the hope that the beads could be removed via scope.
At the emergency vet, the team did everything they could. They were able to retrieve 10 beads, along with a few other items. It was later confirmed that Tofu had actually swallowed 25 beads total. Several were already moving through her system, so we remained hopeful the rest would pass naturally.
Two days after the procedure, she passed four more beads. We followed every veterinary instruction closely, doing everything possible to help the remaining beads pass safely. At that point, 11 beads still remained.
Despite all efforts, Tofu stopped having bowel movements and began vomiting—clear warning signs that something was wrong. On Monday, I called immediately to get her back into the vet. X-rays showed beads still stuck in her stomach, now present for over a week, putting her at risk for serious complications such as infection and sepsis.
Our regular vet didn’t have immediate availability and referred us back to the emergency vet. There, she was evaluated and considered stable enough to wait a short period so we could return to our primary vet and reduce costs. Thankfully, today (Tuesday) we were able to get her in right away, and surgery is now unavoidable.
As many pet owners know, emergency veterinary care adds up quickly. The initial observation alone was $1,500, the emergency vet visit was $2,000, and exam fees ranged from $100–$250 per visit. We took out a loan to cover the first emergency, and have been pulling from every possible place to prepare for surgery, which is estimated between $2,000–$4,600.
Tofu came to us in August 2025 as a foster from Mexico. Within weeks, we fell completely in love. She was diagnosed with glaucoma early on, and I struggled with the thought of her being adopted without her condition being fully understood or prioritized. I felt a deep responsibility to keep her, to make sure she received the care and stability she deserved.
From the beginning, I knew her medical needs would be costly—and I accepted that wholeheartedly. I sold personal belongings, hosted a salsa fundraiser, and did whatever I could to cover her care. It was never a question. She deserves everything.
Shortly after, her sister Potato became ill, followed by the discovery of a mast cell tumor—adding more medical expenses. And then this happened.
In just four months, Tofu’s medical bills alone are approaching $12,000.
Anyone who knows me knows my dogs are my children. After struggling with fertility issues, they are my chosen children—the place where all my love goes. Asking for help is incredibly hard for me, and not something I do lightly. At this point, I’ve exhausted my finances and can’t continue taking on loans.
If you’re able or willing to support Tofu and our family—whether by donating or simply sharing—we would be endlessly grateful. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for keeping our sweet girl in your thoughts.
With love,
Itzy