Ellie is a 4-year-old German Shepherd in Moorpark, CA, who needs $2,000 for Right TPLO.

Ellie was rescued by Westside German Shepherd Rescue. She was then lucky enough to land with a foster family who took care of her until she came into our lives. She has been the best dog you could ask for. Ellie was our first baby until Blue came along and then our daughter. She went from being an active dog who loved to walk and play frisbee, to now laying on a cushion most days.

When Ellie was healthy we would walk every morning all around our neighborhood and around town. Anyone who comes into contact with Ellie always comments on how beautiful she is. She's friendly to all! We adopted another dog two years ago, and although she wasn't too sure of him at first, they became best buddies. I have a 16 month old daughter who loves Ellie so much she snares her snacks with her

Ellie does the classic head tilt that most German Shepherds do, which has always made us laugh. We also call Ellie the protector because no matter where we go she finds a spot where she can lay down and observe/guard the surroundings. Sometimes she will even cross her front paws, prompting her to be called the princess of the family!

Over the last few months Ellie has been having issues with her right knee. We have recently found out she tore her crucial ligament that can only be fixed with surgery. On top of that our vet says she will also need surgery on her left knee since that has also begun to tear. We were not prepared for a double surgery mentally or financially.

Finding out Ellie needs surgery on both knees is something we did not plan for. We cannot afford a surgery that can range from $14,000-$16,000. We are devastated. Ellie is our family and we want her to be healthy again and play with her buddy Blue and our daughter!