Koda is a 9 year old German Shepherd Dog in Washington, DC, who needs $2,000 for Surgery to Remove a Cancerous Tumor.

Koda was rescued from an abandoned barn by my dad when he was just a puppy. He's lived with me and my family for all 9 years of his life. When I came home from serving in the military, Koda was just a puppy but we were tied side by side to one another and have been ever since. He has traveled all over the country with me as my shotgun rider, and he now lives with me in Washington DC.

Last week, we received heartbreaking news—Koda has cancer. He has a tumor growing on his anal gland next to his colon, and the vet says he needs surgery as soon as possible to prevent it from invading his colon and causing fecal incontinence. His primary vet is Live Well Noma in DC, but his cancer is being treated at Friendship Animal Hospital - also in DC.

Koda is as special as they come. He's had a fixation on lights and shadows ever since my little brother used a laser pointer to entertain him as a pup. He loves spending time outdoors and he gets super competitive when it comes to fetch. He really doesn't like when other dogs are faster than him and he knows how to fake a limp to excuse himself as needed LOL. He also LOVES sweet potatoes!

Koda isn't just my emotional support dog. He is my best friend. I wish so much that I could save him the way he saves me. After a sudden move due to black mold & my spouse's hospitalization, I simply don't have the money despite selling everything I can to save him.