Baby is a 6-year-old German Shepherd in Point Richmond, CA, who needs $1,400 for the surgical repair of carpal hyperextension in her right front leg.

Salima G. and her husband found Baby four years ago, as they were walking home from dinner out. Or rather, Baby found them. They saw a stray dog running in the middle of the street, and then, suddenly, she was following them home. Nobody was around to claim her, and subsequent efforts to publicize her situation, bore no fruit. And by then, their bond was a perfect one.

Salima and her husband lead a very activity-oriented, outdoor life, and Baby fit right in. "We are very active and we love being out, taking hikes, swimming, working out," Salima beams. "And Baby is part of all of that. We take her to the hills in the morning, and then we take her to swim in the afternoon." Salima notes that Baby loves all these activities as much as her "parents" do. She also says that everybody loves Baby and that Baby reciprocates that love. "She is sweet and affectionate with everybody. She likes being around our families and our kids."

Baby's carpal hyperextension in her right front leg causes constant pain that they are managing; but that is not a solution. Salima says that the leg must be splinted and Baby cannot use it until she has surgery. The joint is torn and until the tissue is repaired, she must refrain from weight-bearing on it. Without surgery, the leg could atrophy and at the moment, by not using it, Baby is compensating as she walks, so this could ultimately impact her other limbs. But happily, this surgery has a bright outlook and outcome: Salima says that the two surgeons she has consulted both say there is a very good prognosis. So, surgery is imperative, as quickly as possible.

"We want her to be healthy again, and we know it will take a long time before she becomes the same as before, but we are prepared for the long haul. We just want the best for her." Salima's husband Is not working right now, so money is tight, a situation that is compounded by health issues that Salima is facing. Baby is a comfort to the family, as well. "She crawls over the couch or in my bed, and then when she sleeps, she snores; it's so cute and we have big laughs about it." Salima adds that Baby is also extremely smart, with an amazing personality.

"We need HELP for Baby," Salima asks. Can you dig into your heart and your wallet to help Baby be the Olympic sprinter and pole-vaulter she dreams of being again?