Help Abby get Double TPLO/ CCL Surgery — Takoma Park, MD

About this campaign

Help Abby Walk Again Three weeks after I adopted her, Abby, my sweet three-and-a-half-year-old rescue dog, suffered a sudden, severe injury while playing. Before coming to me, this 48 lb terrier mix lived in West Virginia, where she was left orphaned after her previous owner passed away. She came from a wonderful all-volunteer shelter whose dedicated volunteers have continued to offer guidance and support. When I adopted her, she was a vibrant, boisterous ray of sunshine. She quickly began learning commands, loved to play, and greeted people of all ages and other dogs with a loving spirit. While playing, she suddenly began limping and then lay down at my feet. A veterinary evaluation by Dr. Dykus at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics revealed torn cranial cruciate ligaments (CCL) in both knees, uncovering advanced underlying CCL disease. Both knees are severely compromised and already show the beginning of arthritic changes. She is unsteady and uncomfortable, and is limited to brief, leashed potty breaks while her pain is managed with medication. Dr. Dykus and his team evaluated her carefully and determined that surgery is needed to help her walk steadily and without pain. It is hard to see such a young, active dog completely sidelined. She adapts as best she can. She spends her days quietly playing with her favorite stuffed toys, and she is such a gentle soul that she lets me brush her teeth every night without a fuss. On her short potty breaks, she makes the most of things by sniffing everything within reach. We are looking forward to the surgery and recovery so she can return to her long walks. The cost: The total for surgery on both knees is $8,495. This is a significant cost for me. I am raising $2,500 toward it, and I am covering the rest. Dr. Dykus has kindly offered Abby a shelter-rate discount since she has only just arrived from the shelter. About insurance: Abby's diagnosis came shortly after her pet insurance policy began, so the insurer classifies the condition as pre-existing, and surgery now is not reimbursable. Where the money goes: All proceeds go directly to the veterinary clinic to fund her surgery. Any remainder will go toward her rehabilitation, medications, and follow-up visits. Thank you for helping Abby get back on her feet.

Location

Takoma Park, MD

Species:

Dog

Breed:

Mix-Breed

Age:

3 years old

Sex:

Female