River Maiers is a 12-year-old Labrador in Charlotte, NC, who needs $120 for an Annual Exam Visit.

River came into my life after I lost my job when the "mortgage" bust happened in 2009. I was by myself in my home and needed a companion. I rescued River from a couple who had too many dogs on their farm and lived by a River...hence where I came up with the name. River and I both had no clue that I was also pregnant with my 2nd child.... she was by my side the whole pregnancy!

River lives with my 2 daughters, another dog (Patches) and 2 cats. River is now 12 years old and does not play like she used to. We take very short walks now and she limps constantly. She can't jump on my bed nor couch because of her bad hips. River is the "mother" of the house and looks after everyone. She still loves treats and can't chew up my shoes anymore because her teeth are old.

Due to the pandemic and the nature of my occupation, I was laid off twice last year; out of a job a total of 6 months. This put a strain on me financially as I exhausted savings and maxed out credit cards to provide for my 2 children and 4 animals. River is our rock!!

River has several things wrong.... I am told normal full-blooded Labrador issues and issues associated with old age. She has hip dysplasia, cataracts in both eyes, old teeth and needs routine vet checks/shots/etc. She's been going to Long Animal Hospital since I adopted her over 11 years ago. Alot of the doctor's have assessed her there.

River was there for me when I lost my first job, got pregnant with my second child, during my divorce and multiple moves. She is my oldest daughter's fav animal and gave her solace and support during tough times. My oldest daughter had a brain tumor that was removed during her Freshman year in HS...River was by her side the whole recovery. Today, River has been our rock during this Pandemic.