Fix Harley’s Broken Heart

I was immediately drawn to Harley’s adorable face when I saw her up for adoption on Craigslist back in May. Her first owners decided not to keep her long-term, and I wanted to give her that furrrever home that she deserves. One week after I adopted Harley, I took her to Broadway Veterinary Hospital in Rochester to be spayed. I was shocked when the vet informed me that she has a level 4 heart murmur. I was devastated when I was recommended to seek referral from a cardiologist in the Twin Cities. At first I was VERY overhelmed, but I knew in my heart I had to do what is best for Harley and give her a chance. 

A few weeks later I drove up to Oakdale, MN to the Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota, to meet the cardiologist. Harley had her echocardiogram and was diagnosed with SEVERE Pulmonic stenosis. This means that her heart’s pulmonic valve leaflets are stuck together and do not open fully, so blood is not flowing to her lungs.

Harley has been given less than a year to live without surgery. Harley’s surgery will cost $4000, and time is slipping away from her – she is already starting to cough. She needs a procedure performed called a Balloon Dilation Valvuloplasty. With this procedure, she has the chance to live a full life. 

For now, all I can do is restrict exercise with Harley, give her medications, and keep her out of the heat. This is devastating because all Harley wants to do more than anything is play with her housemate, Jagger.  She doesn’t understand that it could kill her to exercise too vigorously. She’s just a puppy, and she can’t even be allowed to play. 

I want to save her life. Harley is the sweetest dog. Maybe you can help a little by donating or even help us by sharing this fundraiser with someone who can.  I know there is a reason Harley came into my life, and I can only hope to be able to save her. 

Please help me reach my goal in time as her surgery has been scheduled for 
October 11th at the Animal Emergency Center in Oakdale, MN by Dr Michelle Rose.

-Kelly McIntyre and Harley