Help Baloo Breathe Easy Again

Hello and thank you for taking a moment to read our story. My name is Ken Matthews, and I'm starting this campaign on behalf of my good friend Oleh and his beloved 8-year-old Newfoundland, Baloo.

Baloo is not just a pet; he's a cherished member of Oleh's family, a constant companion through thick and thin. Recently, Baloo was diagnosed with a condition known as laryngeal paralysis, a nerve-related disorder that prevents the larynx (voice box) from opening and closing properly. This condition has made it increasingly difficult for Baloo to breathe, eat, and even bark, turning every breath into a struggle. The dangers of laryngeal paralysis are not to be underestimated; without proper treatment, it can lead to life-threatening situations, especially in cases of severe distress or heat.

Oleh has already taken significant steps to ensure Baloo's quality of life, with the recent purchase of a $3,000 wheelchair for spondylosis-related mobility issues. This investment has allowed Baloo to walk and enjoy the outdoors again, bringing immense joy and relief to both Baloo and his family.

The next crucial step for Baloo is this surgery—a procedure specifically designed to treat laryngeal paralysis by providing a permanent opening in the larynx. This surgery promises not just to alleviate Baloo's current distress but to offer him a chance at a happy, healthy life once more. However, the cost of this surgery is beyond Oleh's current financial capabilities, especially after the significant investment in Baloo's wheelchair.

That's where we hope you come in. We are reaching out to kind-hearted individuals who understand the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners, who recognize the lengths we go to for our furry family members. Your contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward funding Baloo's surgery and ensuring that this gentle giant can breathe easily, play, and live without the shadow of distress hanging over him.

Let's come together to give Baloo the life he deserves, full of joy, comfort, and endless adventures with Oleh. Every donation, share, and word of support brings us closer to a brighter future for Baloo.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for being a part of Baloo's journey to a better life.

Sincerely,

Ken, Oleh, and Baloo!

During Baloo's most recent vet appointment on April 3rd, 2024 at Capital City Specialty & Emergency Animal Hospital, the veterinarian indicated Baloo's surgery would cost $7,500. He has a 6-month life expectancy without this urgent surgery, and would gain at least two years with a successful surgery.

"Baloo has...marked inspiratory stridor, consistent with laryngeal paralysis.

The unusual finding is the long course of Baloo's upper respiratory noises as the

majority of dogs with laryngeal paralysis have a more rapid deterioration than over a

5-year period. [Baloo] has Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis and

Polyneuropathy (GOLPP) and this may [be] contributing to his hind end mobility issues. We

discussed that these changes are irreversible and progressive.

Based on the severity of Baloo's clinical signs, surgery should be strongly considered."