Save Atlas: Urgent Help Needed for Puppy

Hey guys,

So this is Atlas. 2 days ago my friend found him in downtown San Diego being beaten and kicked by an unhoused individual in a liquor store parking lot. He had a shoe lace as a leash and his tail had been broken. My friend managed to pay this guy to give her the puppy and I said I would take him in.

He is the sweetest, happiest boy despite his situation and loves everyone! I immediately took him to the vet to get checked out and found he’s about 3 months old and he has Parvo. A very contagious virus that can kill dogs if they are not properly taken care of and vaccinated.

Since the vet appointment yesterday, he has seriously declined and I was up with him all night because he had a fever, diarrhea, vomiting, wouldn’t eat or drink, and couldn’t even stand well on his own. I took him to the emergency vet this morning and they told me he needs to be hospitalized, and if not, he could die.

I had gotten pet insurance to help out with whatever costs I assumed I would incur because of the situation he was found in. However, I found out today that there is a 14 day mandatory waiting period in the state of CA that will not cover any “non accident” medical costs until that time has been reached. So here I am now with already $6,000 in medical bills for 1 vet appointment and 1 overnight stay at the hospital and insurance wont cover any of it… This number might increase depending on how long he needs to recover. The main cost is a Parvo specific medication that has been shown to be highly effective at treating it, but is also very pricey.

If you or anyone you know is able to donate something to help cover the cost to save little Atlas, that would be so immensely appreciated! Even if you cannot, please share!

For those who prefer Venmo: @Vicky-Finnegan