Support Zeus’s Back Surgery & Recovery

Hi friends, family, and kind strangers—

This is my first time creating a GoFundMe, and honestly, it’s not something we ever expected to do. Asking for help doesn’t come naturally—but we’re doing it because we love our dog, Zeus, more than we can put into words. Right now, getting him the care he needs matters more than our pride.

The short version...

Our sweet dog Zeus was recently diagnosed with IVDD, a painful spinal condition that requires surgery to relieve his pain and prevent potential paralysis. We’ve been told the total cost could exceed $16,000, and while insurance will cover about half, we’re doing everything we can to manage the rest.

We’ve set our goal at $5,000 to help with the most immediate expenses. We know times are tough, and there’s absolutely no pressure—just heartfelt thanks for any support, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this. Zeus means the world to us.

A little more...

Zeus is our 3-year-old French Bulldog and the sweetest, goofiest little gremlin. He makes us laugh every day and brings joy to everyone he meets—people literally stop on the street just to say hi, which is his favorite thing to do. He’s not just a pet—he feels like a little alien sent to radiate love. There’s no other way to describe him.

Ben and I weren’t planning to adopt a Frenchie, but Zeus came into our lives unexpectedly after his first owner gave him up just a week in. The moment we met him, we knew he was ours. We didn’t know much about the breed’s health issues, but the love was instant. One of the first things he did was press his snout against Ben’s face—his signature cuddle move. IYKYK.

We got pet insurance early on, hoping to be prepared—but even with that, we’re now facing more than we can manage alone.

Zeus was recently diagnosed with IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), and he’s in a lot of pain. He yelps when he moves, trembles from discomfort, and his usual bubbly personality has faded. His vet team recommends spinal surgery to relieve the pain and help prevent paralysis. With surgery and time to heal, they believe he can get back to being his joyful, snorting self.

Between surgery, imaging, and recovery, the total is expected to be over $16,000. Insurance is covering about half, but that still leaves a lot—especially now that our policy is maxed out for the year. We’ve set our goal at $5,000 to help with the most immediate costs. I’ve never done anything like this before, so I’m not sure if that’s the “right” number—but the heart of the ask is simple: if you’re able to give, even a little, and only if you can, we’d be incredibly grateful!

Zeus is our responsibility, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get him the care he needs. This is simply an open-hearted ask. If you can donate, thank you. If not, we completely understand—just sharing this helps more than you know!

Thank you for reading and for caring.

With love,

Jill, Ben, and Little Man