Cocoa is a 11 year old Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever in Orland Park, IL, who needs $7,000 for Anal Sacculectomy.

I adopted Cocoa from a humane society in Tampa, Florida, three years ago when she was 9 years old. She had been their longest resident after multiple shelter stays and came with severe allergies, chronic ear infections, and a past leg injury. Despite her difficult start, she is incredibly loving. As a 24-year-old teacher living on my own, Cocoa has been my constant companion through adulthood.

Cocoa was recently diagnosed with Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma (AGASACA), a cancer of the anal sac glands. Thankfully, testing showed it had not spread, and she underwent surgery at VCA Aurora Animal Hospital in Illinois to remove the tumor. She is awaiting results to determine if radiation is needed and will require ongoing monitoring. Hearing "cancer" was devastating, but I am grateful we caught it e

Cocoa loves everyone, people, children, and other animals. She has made friends through doggy daycare and the children I babysit. She is a lovable weirdo with no spatial awareness who thinks she is a lap dog. Her favorite things are belly rubs, car rides, and being close to her people. She has been my best friend and source of comfort through every stage of my adult life.

As a third-year teacher living on my own, Cocoa's cancer diagnosis and surgery costs were completely unexpected. With a move back to Florida and graduate school ahead, any support will help me focus on her recovery instead of overwhelming medical bills.