He Helped Our Dad Survive - Now He Needs Saving

My dad is a 66-year-old cancer survivor who’s fought through over 36 grueling rounds of radiation. Frankly speaking, he is physically drained, emotionally isolated, and mentally exhausted. He’s done it all on his own. With his children thousands of miles away and

limited resources on both of our sides, he’s carried the weight of this fight solo. No caregiver. No partner. Just sheer grit and his service dog by his side.

For years, our family has raised and trained service dogs for veterans, the visually impaired, and individuals with mental and physical disabilities. It’s a mission close to our hearts. From a recent litter of 12 German Shepherd puppies, several were donated to those in need - including the very one we gifted to my dad during the height of his cancer battle. This dog has been more than a pet; he’s been my dad’s anchor, emotional support, and daily motivator.

But now this dog is facing his own medical battle. At just over a year old, he’s been diagnosed with a debilitating hip condition requiring a full replacement. The surgery costs $17,000–$20,000, far beyond what my dad can afford on his extremely limited fixed income.

To make matters more heartbreaking, the dog’s mother (one of our original service animals) was recently put down after her own battle with cancer. Even if a new puppy were an option, which it isn’t, our family’s line of service dogs has come to an end. After much research, we determined that waiting for a new dog through private organizations would take far too long. My dad doesn’t have that kind of time.

He now faces an impossible choice - delay his own urgently needed spinal surgery, or say goodbye to the one companion who’s stood by him through every hospital visit, every painful night, and every lonely moment.

We’re reaching out so he doesn’t have to choose. We’ve consulted with multiple veterinary specialists, including orthopedic surgeons, who all agree: this dog is an ideal candidate for the surgery. With his age, temperament, and otherwise excellent health, they anticipate a near-perfect success rate. If we can get him the care he needs, he’ll have a full, pain-free life ahead.

Your support doesn’t just help save a service dog—it helps preserve the bond between a man and the only companion who’s walked every step of this journey with him, and will continue for the rest of their lives.

I’m personally matching every donation and ensuring his dog is cared for in the meantime.

He was our dad's hero, and now he needs his own. Thank you for keeping an open heart and mind, and for helping us carry some of this weight. Bless you.