Dennis is a 15-year-old Lab and Golden Retriever mix in Greensboro, NC, who needs $1,400 for diagnostics.

Dennis and I met 15 years ago at the animal shelter after the death of my previous dog. I went for weeks and one day I walked into the shelter with all the loud barking and dogs jumping, I come across this little guy sitting peacefully and calmly. I looked at him and he looked at me and it was love at first sight.

I have muscular dystrophy and the progression began when I got Dennis. Dennis had extreme allergies and ear infections the first 2 years I had him. After expensive allergy tests and serum injections, changing to a good food and vitamin supplements, he overcame that. Dennis adapted to my lifestyle as my disease worsened. Now I owe it to him to be there for him for the rest of his life.

I'm disabled with muscular dystrophy and in the transition stages of using a wheelchair. I have to budget monthly to survive and I put Dennis before myself, making sure he has his food, meds and other needs for the month. I've been unable to keep up with his checkups

Dennis's health issues now are old age and his body is catching up to his age. He's slower now but has extreme gum disease and now having issues walking and standing. I'm having to go to the vet now and see what's going on. Not knowing how I'm going to pay for it. His new vet office as of tomorrow, July 29, is Animal Ark Of Brassfield, 3205 Brassfield Rd, Greensboro, NC 27410, (336) 282-1800.

He's constantly making me laugh and smile. He's always excited to be around me and follows me everywhere to take care of Daddy, or just to get a bite of what ever I'm eating. Dennis is the sweetest soul ever. He loves people more than other dogs. Give him a kitten and he's a loving caretaker. The best dog ever. I'm just wanting him to stay around a little longer if possible.