Masha is a 11-year-old Siberian Husky in St. Louis, MO, who needs $1,999 for TPLO Surgery.

Masha joined us in 2012, a little unexpectedly. We were grieving the recent passing of our rescue pup of 11 years, when a neighbor told us there was a dog they thought we should meet. Their grandchild had moved back in with family after a couple years living on their own and brought with them a puppy they didn't have room for. Masha came to visit us, and she never left.

When financial and emotional abuse rocked our family, followed by a traumatic divorce, Mom found herself alone and relying on state disability. Her children, who Masha loves and who love her, were grown and living out of state, with established lives and significant expenses of their own. But, Masha has always been there. She is Mom's shadow, doing everything and going everywhere together.

She became an anchor for Mom. A silent expectation that ensured she got out of bed every morning, left the house every day, made at least one decent meal as Masha’s food sensitivities meant kibble couldn’t be on the menu. She's deeply loving, and to more than just Mom. She knows when others are upset and she will try her best to comfort them, by leaning against them or offering a rare kiss or paw.

Masha recently began to limp on her rear right leg, and Mom took her in to seek care. X-rays revealed that she’d torn her cruciate ligament, leaving her bone on bone and in pain. We have seen two doctors, who have confirmed she is a good candidate for the required surgery, which would return her to a good quality of life, continuous love, and companionship.

Relying on state disability means covering a bill nearing 5k alone isn't feasible without jeopardizing Mom and Masha's housing, but Mom would put every last dime towards Masha's care if she could. Masha saved Mom’s life and now we want to return the favor.