Niko is a 3-year-old Jack Russell Mix in Cincinnati, OH, who needs $1,700 for a Fracture Repair (Super Item).

PetSmart had an adoption event going on and my husband wander over to see the dogs and fell in love with Niko. We went home from the event and put an application in on him immediately. Niko already had an amputated front paw, and I believe was severely abused. He still has the best little personality and is such a great little dog.

Niko is a very happy dog. He is a loving little guy and truthfully doesn't know a stranger. He will happily take all the pets he can get while giving kisses in return. He does get jealous when he brother gets any attention and tries to come between him and whoever. But, I can say that Bayley is also like that. Niko likes to talk, he is very vocal, especially if he thinks your ignoring him.

My husband passed away 2 years ago in April. He was our health care carrier and I am now on Cobra which is extremely expensive. I no longer have a savings and am barely making from month to month.

Several months ago, Niko started holding up his back right leg when walking. I already had an appointment to get their shots, so I asked the Vet at that time to take a look at his leg. I had already been examining it myself, but could not find the issue. They prescribed some medication, which didn't work. Finally, they took x-rays and found he has a broken hip. He needs to have surgery.

I believe Niko was abused and I think something happed to his tail. His tail does not wag side to side, but rather up and down and circular when he is really excited. Niko loves to play tug of war and we have many rope toys for this reason. He also loves to attack his brother and they sometimes can play a little rough. That is when I have to get involved.