As many of you know, we lost our sweet hound dog Hank to lymphoma just a couple of weeks ago. It was heartbreaking to say goodbye to him, and we are still grieving his passing.

Just 48 hours after losing Hank, we noticed that our German Shepherd, Apollo, was unwell. Suddenly Apollo was dragging his toes while walking, slipping/stumbling, and even falling down while trying to get up. Mikayla immediately took him into her work at Veterinary Emergency Group to have him evaluated, and we were referred to a neurologist, as he was having neurologic deficits on his physical exam. His x-rays and bloodwork were unremarkable, so that ruled out hip dysplasia.

After meeting with the neurologist, we were told it could be a number of ailments

ranging from a slipped disk, a disc bulge, a brain tumor, or even a degenerative genetic condition known as DM. He has since been on a steroid regimen in case it was some sort of disc problem that he could bounce back from, but the steroids did not change his condition... He has actually has had consistently more trouble getting up and picking his hind legs up as time has gone on. We ordered genetic testing too, and we are waiting for results that should come some time later this week or next. Since Apollo did not improve with the steroid therapy, it will be impossible to treat and help him successfully without further imaging to figure out what is causing this sudden decline at such a young age.

The next step is an MRI. Apollo is an otherwise healthy, young dog so it is imperative that we have this final diagnostic test done as soon as possible so that we can properly treat the source of the problems. If he does need back surgery, he is a good candidate so we want to make sure that he gets the proper care he needs as soon as possible.

This has been a very trying and difficult time for us in a number of ways: emotionally,

mentally, physically and financially. Between all of the testing, at-home care, time off of work, travel and other unforeseen expenses associated with helping Apollo, it will cost thousands of dollars to get him the help he needs. The MRI alone will cost around $5K, and that is with Mikayla’s employee discount. To get that discount, we will need to travel to the other side of the state to have the MRI done (and potentially for surgery if he needs it).

The thought of losing Apollo mere weeks after Hank left our lives is an unbearable one. He is too young to not be a part of our little family. We need help helping Apollo. Anyone who has met him knows that Apollo is the sweetest, most gentle and loving boy, and we want to be able to give him the best life and care possible.

Any bit of financial aid to cover the cost of what he needs is greatly appreciated, and

we would not be able to thank you enough. Every share and repost means the world to our little family. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. ❤️‍

-Mikayla, Michael, and Apollo