Duke’s fight against Pericardial Effusion

Firstly, I’d like to thank everyone who has been there for me and Duke since the news of his illness.  We’ve received so much love and support in addition to those that have financially pitched in.  I’m filled with so much gratitude knowing that he has touched so many lives and is loved by so many that want to see him live a full, happy, and healthy life. And to those who are just now hearing about this and will be contributing, Duke and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support in saving his life.

Duke is a beautiful, loving, energetic, playful, goofy 8 year old Cane Corso with a huge personality.  He loves to play and is always center of attention.  Anyone that has ever met him falls in love with him immediately especially his puppy-like spunk.  He has been my beloved companion and rock since he was 8 weeks old.


Up until about 6 months ago, Duke was a healthy, life-loving dog.  All of his routine vet visits were flawless so it came as a complete shock when he was diagnosed with heart disease.

Pericardial Effusion is excessive fluid around the heart.  Once enough fluid is present, the fluid then starts to accumulate in the abdomen.  The fluid causes pressure on the heart which in Duke’s case caused him to go into right-side heart failure.

After months of working with a specialist, there is still no known cause for his condition and treatment has been very limited.  Several very risky fluid taps (ultrasound guided pericardiocentesis) have been performed to removed fluid from his heart and abdomen in an attempt to avoid surgery and in hopes that it might resolve itself.  It has not and our options have run out.  It is clear to me and the cardiologist that my only hope for saving my amazing dog is heart surgery (Thoracoscopy  Pericardiectomy).  With Duke being an otherwise healthy dog, his prognosis is very good and he is expected to make a full recovery.

Duke needs this life-saving heart surgery immediately before he goes into cardiac arrest and after thousands in vet bills and nearly maxing out my CareCredit, I’m in desperate need of help for Duke’s surgery.  The surgery is estimated to be about $6,500-$7,500.  It breaks my heart to know that without the donations for this surgery, Duke’s life will be cut short.  He has so much life in him and everyone who has come to know him want to see him live a full and healthy life.  Thanks again for your support in saving Duke’s life.