Arya is a 7-year-old Red Heeler in Westinster, CO, who needs $1,450 for Survey Radiographs ( x-ray ), Ultrasound, GI Panel, Parasite Test.

We have two dogs, Max and Arya. Max is lively and boisterous. Arya, however, is sweet and reserved. Strangely, Arya was our neighbor's dog, so we only just met her this year. About two months ago the neighbor asked if we wanted to take her, as she was A) moving to New York, and B) Arya was declining in health due to presumed depression. We took her hoping children and a companion dog would help.

Arya is the most gentle, peaceful, and calm dog. She is always ready to give kisses and love to the whole family. She loves to plop herself right in the middle of whatever is going on and observes like a little wall flower. She lets my 10-month-old Rowan cuddle with her. I feel deeply connected to her, and swear that we have an unspoken bond and understanding. She sleeps right next to my bedside

Arya is very quiet and dainty but uses this to her advantage. She is, quite unexpectedly, a pretty big social butterfly. She will quietly sneak away if we are playing fetch in the front yard. She then enjoys some great little solo adventures, meeting many neighbors along the way (as we frantically look around for her) We usually look for wherever there are people, and she will be right there!

Arya continues to rapidly lose weight dropping 20 pounds since December. She eats a lot but doesn't gain. She has also incurred a bacterial skin infection (presumably). Today, we did X-Rays and blood work. She was prescribed antibiotics and steroids, but they are worried it could be cancer or heart disease. Next urgent steps: to get an ultrasound, a GI Panel, and a parasite test.

This last year I have been a stay-at-home mom, so we have been relying on only one income with family of four + three fur babies. We also incurred some pretty hefty expenses for the funeral of my boyfriend's father. The unexpected costs are a large obstacle for our family.