Kiwi is a 3-year-old Australian Shepherd/Golden Retriever Mix in Hermitage, TN, who needs $2,000 for megaesophagus.

It was a gift from a friend to help me cope with the loss of my father, to give me company and love. He became my best friend and showed me unconditional love, no matter the circumstances we faced together. I chose his name at a family barbecue we were all trying to choose a name together and he was such a little thing running around, and my little nephew start calling him kiwi and I loved it.

Everybody in the family loves Kiwi! Kiwi is the kind of dog that loves kids, never gets mad, nothing bothers him ; and one of his greatest qualities is that he always "protects the weak". For example, when we go to a dog park, and another dog is bothering or barking at another, he jumps right in and protects the one that is being bothered. He just wants everyone to be friends!

I lost my job 3 months ago and I am currently going through a divorce. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea after I had a stroke years ago and I finally saved enough money to get me a C-PAP machine ($1,000+). Also, had to spend another $300 to treat Kiwi's kennel cough.

About a month ago he was treated for kennel cough with medication and quarantine. He had a teeth cleaning procedure for the very first time as well as a check up. The doctor said that in the middle of the procedure he threw up. Since then he stopped eating and drinking water as well having diarrhea. My vet told me to bring him to the ER today (06/02).

Kiwi is definitely a "talker" and he expresses every feeling! When we are at home and he want to go potty, he sits by the door or in front of the TV to get my attention while looking at me and at his leash back and forth. That makes me laugh every time and I am glad he expresses himself that way so I know when he needs to go out.