Walter and I have been together for 10 years, next week. I adopted him from a shelter in Berkeley, CA, at the tender, young age of 24. He has been the best dog I could have ever asked to have.  He has been patient with me and adjusted to changes in schedules, houses, cities, relationships, weather, housemates, other pets and just about anything else I could have possibly altered. I have tried to return the favor and be the best owner I could be for him.

Three weeks ago, Walter was running at least 10 miles a week and playing a fairly competitive game of daily soccer. He made 11 years old look effortless. People were always surprised to learn he wasnt a puppy.

Two weeks ago, he became a sick dog for the first time in his life. I have watched him go from an active and healthy little dude, to a super skinny little dog who cannot absorb nutrients. As of our doggie ER visit today, we have a plan of attack. He has been diagnosed with protein losing enteropathy (PLE). His outlook can be positive if we can figure out the right plan of attack.

I have completely extinguished my savings in the past two weeks. And it seems that there  will be more costs incurred in coming weeks. Graduate school has been many things for me and I am enjoying it immensely, unfortunately, it has not put me in a position to afford the care that I so badly want to provide for Walter.

If you feel like this is something you are interested in helping with, I know that I will be beyond grateful for the assistance.


Thank you for considering this request. I am extremely lucky to have a dog like Walter: he continually shows me the best in people.

-Lola