Niko the Service Dog
Donation protected
Seven years ago, this stunning Siberian Husky named Niko found his forever home with Ron Ratley. Upon meeting one another, the two bonded instantly and were inseparable . There was no way Ron could have predicted the profound impact Niko would have on his life. However, today he sits in awe while reflecting on all of the positive ways Niko has changed his life.
Niko has been Ron’s saving grace. Being born deaf, Ron has had to overcome many things a lot of people take for granted. Constantly having to acclimate yourself to your surroundings in a world where it’s not always a possibility can be very difficult for anyone. It can wear a person down physically, emotionally, and mentally. Having Niko in his life makes times like this seem easier to adjust to on a daily basis. Niko not only supports Ron emotionally and mentally but also helps him with tasks around the house and some safety issues that arise. Niko is his alarm clock in the morning, he alerts Ron when someone is at the door, and last month warned him of the fire alarm that was going off. This is just a small list of the many roles Niko plays in Ron’s life.
Towards the end of March, Ron noticed blood in Niko’s urine. He immediately took him to the vet to have some tests run. After the test results came back, they scheduled Niko for an ultrasound for the following week. Two nights before the scheduled ultrasound, Ron had to rush Niko to the Emergency Veterinarian Hospital because Niko was having trouble standing up. They gave Niko fluids and performed the ultrasound. That night Ron got earth-shattering news. Niko was diagnosed with Kidney cancer and the doctors were unsure how much the cancer has spread. Niko was given approximately two months to live.
With the costs of all the doctor visits and medication Ron had to make the difficult decision to opt out of the surgery and take Niko home. He has had to take him to the vet since then because of a possible seizure.
We are raising money for Ron and Niko to help with costs already expended and for the cost of palliative care. In the future the funds will also help provide Ron with another service dog.
Prayers and any donations will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks go out to everyone who have already shown their love and support for Niko and Ron.
Niko has been Ron’s saving grace. Being born deaf, Ron has had to overcome many things a lot of people take for granted. Constantly having to acclimate yourself to your surroundings in a world where it’s not always a possibility can be very difficult for anyone. It can wear a person down physically, emotionally, and mentally. Having Niko in his life makes times like this seem easier to adjust to on a daily basis. Niko not only supports Ron emotionally and mentally but also helps him with tasks around the house and some safety issues that arise. Niko is his alarm clock in the morning, he alerts Ron when someone is at the door, and last month warned him of the fire alarm that was going off. This is just a small list of the many roles Niko plays in Ron’s life.
Towards the end of March, Ron noticed blood in Niko’s urine. He immediately took him to the vet to have some tests run. After the test results came back, they scheduled Niko for an ultrasound for the following week. Two nights before the scheduled ultrasound, Ron had to rush Niko to the Emergency Veterinarian Hospital because Niko was having trouble standing up. They gave Niko fluids and performed the ultrasound. That night Ron got earth-shattering news. Niko was diagnosed with Kidney cancer and the doctors were unsure how much the cancer has spread. Niko was given approximately two months to live.
With the costs of all the doctor visits and medication Ron had to make the difficult decision to opt out of the surgery and take Niko home. He has had to take him to the vet since then because of a possible seizure.
We are raising money for Ron and Niko to help with costs already expended and for the cost of palliative care. In the future the funds will also help provide Ron with another service dog.
Prayers and any donations will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks go out to everyone who have already shown their love and support for Niko and Ron.
Organizer
Kristie Reges
Organizer
Leland, NC
