Unexpected Emergency Medical Bills for Veruca

Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) is as terrifying as it is unexpected. They don’t know why it happens but when it does, you have to act fast. You have one, maybe two hours to start treatment before it’s too late for a positive outcome. When Veruca started rapidly showing symptoms, Holly’s quick action got them to vet care in time. The fear and gravity of the situation settled in when the doctors delivered the news.

“If we don’t do the surgery, we will lose her”. No, no, no. Not those words. Emergency vet visits are stressful and scary enough. But those words, that ultimatum, is a whole other level.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with this dynamic duo, Holly Bentley and Veruca Rose Bentley have been two peas in a pod for over 11 years. Both are beautiful and regal females. One has the tail of a Japanese Akita; the other has a driver's license. The pair have supported each other through thick and thin, hell or high water, the best and the better. Call it however you like; the love and bond displayed between this human-animal duo is one for the storybooks..

So on Saturday, 8/13/22, when the telltale signs of GDV or “Bloat” started showing, it wasn't even a question. Get her to a hospital. Save her life. Fortunately, the talented and committed staff of Specialty Veterinary Hospital in San Diego were on hand to do just that and keep this companionship alive.. So much appreciation for the kindness and performance of the entire care team.

Veruca is loved. She is valued. She means so much to so many humans and animals alike, it’s difficult to put it into words. If only we could all be the quality of human that our animal companions believe we are.

Holly is one of those rare souls who works hard, puts others first, and truly brings out the best in people, even complete strangers sometimes. But dang it, she doesn’t like to ask for help herself. She doesn’t think people want to know or share about this. But support comes to us in different ways and just because someone is resolved to handle the financial burden alone for having such loyalty and love toward an animal, it doesn't mean they have to. I am posting this on behalf of these two because they are both very dear and kind and I know there is a community of animal lovers, and advocates of furry family members out there who also care. If you can send support, be it kind words, an uplifting story, or something to ease the financial burden, we would be most grateful.

We appreciate all the love and support.

Most Importantly:

Please educate yourself on Bloat/GDV. Know the signs of Bloat and mentally plan what you would do in the situation. Please talk with your vet and identify the best emergency vet option. For future pets, there is a chance that this unexpected, expensive, life-saving surgery can be avoided altogether by surgically attaching your dog's stomach during Spay/Neuter surgery.