Bear is a 6-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier in Savannah, GA, who needs $2,000 for cranial cruciate ligament tear and arthritis.

It all started with that look - you know the one. Puppy dog eyes, whatever you call it -- those eyes stared into my soul. Sounds cheesy, but if you meet Bear you know what I mean. It was so sweet, I even took a picture (picture 8!) I saw Bear at a rescue shelter while at college 6 years ago, and my life hasn't been the same since. We do everything together - he's absolutely my best friend.

Bear has always been intertwined in my life completely, he gets along with everything. My friends, family, even strangers to me - EVERYBODY knows this dog. When he got to about 3 years old, life slowed down a little and we moved home. He lost that extra puppy energy, we took slower walks in the sun around the neighborhood. He stays at home with his sister Nala, who is currently 3 years old.

Full disclosure - I am truly posting to share his process with whoever may need it. I'm posting for every person that has had their heart touched by this dog, cause there are plenty of them!

Bear started having noticeable trouble walking, and a vet visit and some x rays revealed ligament tears in both of his knees, with arthritis present in the left. We are looking at 2 (possibly 3) surgeries, with lots and lots of recovery time. I have taken him to Pooler Veterinary Hospital and received surgery estimates as well.

To me, he's special because he is & has always been right by my side. He came into my life at a point in time that wasn't the most ideal for cultivating a stable environment (college), but every moment for 6 years has been met with loyalty, unrequited love, and mutual respect. He teaches me patience & kindness when I need it the most. All that he is, I love and would give him the world.