Maddox is a 3-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier in Des Moines, IA, who needs $149 for consultation to determine options.

I got Maddox when he was 10 weeks old. He was unconscious and barely breathing, but this little guy who was only 4lbs then and is only 40lbs now, has the heart of a lion. He made it and is now almost 4 years old. Maddox is special needs. He has canine dysfunctional behavior which is the equivalent of autism in dogs. He is the sweetest most gentle boy. Everyone who knows Maddox loves him .

Maddox keeps to himself for the most part. He lives with 3 other dogs but rarely interacts with them. He is not a social happy go lucky dog. But that's okay, we accepted Maddox for who he is a long time ago. Much like a human with autism Maddox is socially challenged. He doesn't like change. It scares him so we keep things simple and routine here.

I lost my job last February. I am currently in the process of starting my own business making dog clothes and pet memorial jewelry. This could not have happened at a worse time.

Maddox started having what appeared to be pain in his legs when he would sit down. X rays were done that revealed nothing. 3 weeks ago it got worse. I took him back to the vet and they think it is neurological. AVS in Omaha has a neurology department so Maddox will be seeing them this Tuesday. We are praying it is not neurological.

Maddox will not walk on hardwood floors. He has to be on carpet or he isnt going. Maddox has ocd. He also doesn't play or wag his tail. He's a very monotone dog who likes to keep things calm and simple. We haven't rearranged the furniture since he was a puppy. He has one bowl he will eat out of but only that one bowl.