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After Escaping a Painful Past, Buddy Now Faces the Fight of His Life

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Final update · September 16, 2026

Thank you to everyone who took the time to learn about Buddy and his fight against cancer.

Buddy is a beloved 8-year-old German Shepherd-Golden Retriever mix who has already overcome so much. After being rescued as a young dog, he slowly learned to trust and became a gentle, loving companion who brings joy to everyone around him.

Earlier this year, Buddy was diagnosed with a soft tissue sarcoma on his right front leg. Surgery was recommended to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue and give him the best chance at a comfortable future. His mom, a low-income senior living on a fixed income, was doing everything she could to make his treatment possible, including contributing $300 toward his care. Paws 4 A Cure also provided a $400 grant.

Unfortunately, this campaign did not receive any donations, so we were unable to raise additional funds toward Buddy’s surgery through his Waggle fundraiser. We know how difficult it can be to face a serious veterinary diagnosis while living on a limited income, and we hope Buddy was able to receive the treatment he needed.

Buddy has spent his life showing just how powerful love, patience, and trust can be. He and his mom have been there for each other through difficult times, and their bond is truly special.

We hope Buddy continues to enjoy the companionship, kindness, and community he has come to know and love. Thank you for caring about this resilient boy, reading his story, and taking the time to support his journey

About this campaign

Buddy has already overcome so much in his eight years of life. Now, this sweet German Shepherd-Golden Retriever mix is facing another heartbreaking challenge—one he can't overcome without your help.

When Buddy was rescued at just 18 months old, he was terrified of men and fearful of the world around him. He even had unexplained fresh stitches, leading his mom to believe he had suffered abuse before they found each other. With patience, love, and time, Buddy slowly learned to trust again. Today, he's a gentle, affectionate companion who has become a beloved member of his senior apartment community, making friends wherever he goes. His mom says they rescued each other.

Earlier this year, she noticed a lump growing on Buddy's right front leg. After a veterinary examination, the devastating diagnosis came back: soft tissue sarcoma, a cancerous tumor that will continue to grow if left untreated.

To give Buddy the best chance at a long, comfortable life, his veterinarian has recommended surgery to remove both the tumor and the surrounding tissue to reduce the risk of it returning. His surgery is scheduled for August 21, and every day counts.

Buddy's mom is a low-income senior living on a fixed income. She has already sacrificed what she could, paying $300 out of her own pocket to secure Buddy's surgery date. Thanks to the generosity of Paws 4 A Cure, a $400 grant has been awarded toward Buddy's care. Another organization has also pledged support, but there is still $1,350 needed before Buddy can receive the lifesaving surgery he urgently needs.

Buddy's surgery is estimated to cost $2,679, which includes the specialized care needed to safely remove his cancerous tumor.

Your donation helps cover expenses such as:

  • Surgical removal of Buddy's soft tissue sarcoma
  • General anesthesia and surgical monitoring
  • Pain management before and after surgery
  • Surgical supplies and sterile equipment
  • Hospitalization and recovery care
  • Post-operative medications and follow-up treatment

Every dollar brings Buddy one step closer to a cancer-free future.

Buddy has already proven that love can heal emotional wounds. Now he needs compassionate supporters to help heal his physical ones.

Your tax-deductible donation will help ensure this resilient boy can undergo the surgery he desperately needs and continue enjoying the life he fought so hard to find. If you're unable to donate today, sharing Buddy's fundraiser with friends and family is another meaningful way to help.

Thank you for standing beside Buddy, his devoted mom, and Paws 4 A Cure. Together, we can give this incredible survivor the second chance he deserves.

Location
MN • Paws 4 A Cure
Species:
Dog
Breed:
German Shepherd Dog
Age:
8 years old
Sex:
Male