Teacher Saves Dog Help Save Teacher

Those of you who have dogs know the loyalty and unqualified love they offer. For those of you who rescued dogs, you often question 'who rescued who'? They become our best friends and members of our families. Sadly and unlike humans, when dogs fall ill, folks aren't lining up with casseroles, cards, and support to help and encourage the dog family. Meet my neighbor Jay and his bestie, Arrow!

Arrow is an 11-month black lab/retriever mix. Arrow was rescued from the humane society in Alpharetta in February of 2016. Arrow was exactly what Jay was looking for, a cute quiet puppy that would grow to be medium sized dog. Boy was he wrong! Arrow is going to be huge and a is a wild child! Arrow is very social, high energy and enjoys playing with his dog friends.

A little bit about Jay. Jay grew up in Atlanta. He is 24 years old and currently is in his first job since graduating from South Dakota working as a security officer and football coach at Meadow Creek High School. Jay's dream to become a firefighter has recently been realized as he will begin the firefighter program in Gwinnett County in February of 2017.

Now to the story that really got me during this holiday season. On November 13th, Arrow fell sick. He was vomiting multiple times a day and lethargic. Jay took him to Briarcliff Animal Clinic where he was rushed back for X-rays and evaluation. The doctor discovered he had blockage in his stomach, intestine and bowels. He was extremely dehydrated and he had the beginning stages of an infection. The doctors said there was no chance of survival if they did not perform surgery immediately and even with the surgery there was a very small chance of survival. Jay became very emotional but knew that he would do whatever it took to save his best friend so he authorized the surgery which ended up being $5236.45.
The surgery required that Arrow was opened up so that they could examine his stomach, intestines, and bowels. The doctor found that he had eaten plastic as well as a string that was wrapped around his organs. After removing the plastic and string, the internal damage they caused was repaired and Arrow was sutured and the waiting game began.

Now for the good news! On November 16th, Jay gets a call from the vet saying that Arrow had made it through the surgery! He would continue to be monitored for the next 24 hours. He was released on the 17th. Arrow had to take 5 medications that were administered 3 times a day as well as wear a cone for 2 weeks. Aside from that, you could tell he was so happy to be home again with Jay and just wanted to snuggle.

Right around Thanksgiving, Jay started to notice that Arrow had a little more pep in his step and was feeling noticeably better! He knew at that point everything was going to be ok and he always knew he made the right decision to save Arrow!

This is where I ask your help in saving Jay! While he could have made a choice to let Arrow pass from his injuries, he chose to save him no matter what the cost. Please send your contributions (of any size) to help Jay offset the incredible cost of saving Arrow. Teachers and firefighters have the most noble jobs but sadly are not compensated commensurate to their work and impact on communities. On behalf of Jay and Arrow, thank you for your kindness and generosity!

#GoFundAtl