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In December, our dog Juniper 2 1/2 years old, was diagnosed with Patella Luxation (sliding kneecaps) and requires surgery on both of her hind legs. The estimated cost for her surgery is between $3,200 to $3,600 and I do not have the funds to pay for the surgery.

In August of 2008, I lost my husband Luis, after his 2 year battle with brain cancer. Our son Nicholas, had always been a shy child and after losing Luis, he became more withdrawn and depressed. He desperately wanted a dog and I thought that a dog would be a good companion for him. In May of 2010, we adopted Juniper from Southern California Labrador Retriever Rescue (SCLRR) and brought her home. Juniper is the perfect dog for my family. She is a Labrador and Spaniel mix and is gentle, loving and friendly.

Juniper has truly become Nicholas’ dog. Nicholas doesn’t like being alone and Juniper happily accompanies him around our house to keep him company. He feeds her and fills her water dish every morning. We asked SCLRR for financial assistance, but they are unable to help at this time. In December, once it became apparent that I would not be able to afford the surgery, I discussed with Nicholas the fact that we have to give Juniper back to SCLRR. He was devastated and has been obsessing over losing her. He is constantly asking me if we are going to have to give her back, talks about losing Juniper with his babysitter and a week before Christmas, announced that I would never have to buy him anything again so that I could have enough money for Juniper’s surgery.

At this point, I am desperate to find a way to pay for Juniper’s surgery. Since losing their father, I have done my best to provide my children with a loving and stable home. Nicholas and his sister Ashley continue to grieve the loss of their father and I fear that adding the loss of Juniper, who is truly a member of our family, will further devastate them.

Any help you can provide to my family would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Donations can be mailed to
Animal Assistance League of Orange County
P.O. Box 38
Midway City, CA 92655

Donations can be made via PayPal on www.aaloc.org Please note on donation checks or PayPal memos: "For Juniper"

Thank you for your concern, compassion and generosity.