Mazzie is a 1-year-old Shih Tzu in Saint George, UT who needs $4,200 for spine surgery, for intervertebral disc disease .

We adopted Mazzie and her best friend Piper from the animal shelter. They had been abandoned by their owner. Both were neglected, underweight, and severely matted as you can see from one of the pictures. The first time we met, Mazzie ran into the room and jumped on my lap, looked up at me, and began giving me kisses. Originally my husband and I only wanted to adopt one new dog as we already have a Havanese boy. However, when we saw how emaciated she and Piper were, we knew we had to take them both. So our family grew to five and we couldn't be happier. Mazzie has been a special part of my life since she joined us four months ago. I was recently diagnosed with a seizure disorder on top of my regular Epilepsy. Somehow she knows when I'm having one and jumps up onto my lap and licks my face or hands. She is more than a comfort animal or companion to me; she is my child. She makes me laugh everyday. Becoming housebound by this illness had sent me into a depression. Bringing Mazzie into our lives also brought hope and light. Somehow the long days sitting alone on the couch grew much shorter. I had someone to care for and love. This is the reason I am asking for your help. Mazzie deserves the best care possible. Please help Mazzie walk again!