Please help Matrix the German Shepherd

Iku Yoko is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Hello, my name is Yoko.

I have decided to start this fundraising to save our beloved dog, Matrix. Here is the story of Matrix and our journey together from the day we met to the present.

Matrix joined our family at the end of April 2024. He is a former police dog, who was soon to retire and needed a new home. His previous owner had to move to Canberra for work and could no longer keep him. I found him through a Facebook post and decided to adopt him.

Soon after he moved in he started scratching his belly, and his condition progressively worsened. He began to itch all over, and his body was covered in sores, blood, and pus. His face was rubbed raw against hard surfaces, and the house filled with a foul smell. His fur fell out, and he scratched constantly, unable to sleep, howling in distress at night. The living room floor was covered in his fur and skin flakes, and I spent my days vacuuming and cleaning. The lack of sleep took a toll on both of us, leading to severe stress and exhaustion.

After consulting with a few dog-owning acquaintances, I found a skilled vet. He prescribed several medications and shampoos for Matrix. Initially, there was significant improvement, but his condition worsened once the medication ran out. We tried steroid injections and different medications, but the results have been inconsistent. We are currently monitoring his condition.

When Matrix arrived, he weighed 43 kg, but he has since dropped to 29.5 kg. Despite his constant hunger and increased feeding frequency, he remains underweight, with increased bowel movements. The vet suspects EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency), meaning his body can’t absorb nutrients properly. He is now on medication to aid nutrient absorption. Although still thin, he has stopped losing weight.

Matrix has multiple congenital conditions and will need ongoing treatment and medication. When I adopted him, I had no idea about these health issues. I am committed to caring for him and alleviating his suffering, but the monthly medication costs around $1,000. Unfortunately, pet insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Matrix is only three years old, and it’s challenging to support him financially on my own. Your support and donations would be greatly appreciated. The funds will be used for his treatment, medication, and exploring new therapies. I will provide regular updates on his condition and expenses. With your help, we can find the best treatment options and ensure Matrix receives lifelong care.

Please consider contributing to Matrix’s recovery. Thank you for your support.