My name is Marnie, and my dog Sadie is my whole world.

Sadie is a 7-pound toy poodle, my constant companion, and truly my best girl. I never planned on getting a dog — she just kind of happened to me — and from that moment on, we’ve been inseparable. She comes everywhere with me, sits proudly in the cab of my truck as my little supervisor, and fills my life with so much love and joy. She rarely barks unless it’s to say hello to another four-legged friend, and she has the sweetest, most affectionate soul.

I work very long hours, often 90-hour weeks, and Sadie is always right there beside me. She’s my comfort, my routine, and my heart.

In late December, I booked a last-minute trip to Puerto Vallarta. Sadie and I have spent our winter breaks in Mexico for the past few years, and it’s something we both look forward to. To fly, she simply needed her deworming medication. Due to unexpected flooding on the highways while we were working in the Okanagan, I wasn’t able to make it back home for her regular vet appointment and instead had to take her to a clinic in West Kelowna.

Sadie passed her exam with flying colours. She was given NexGard Spectra, as the clinic didn’t carry the medication she normally receives. I explained that she has never had issues with fleas or ticks, but because they were certifying her to fly, they recommended this medication and reassured me it was safe. I even checked with my vet at home before agreeing.

Shortly after, everything changed.

Sadie declined very rapidly — from lethargy to loss of coordination. When her back legs became unstable, I rushed her to an emergency vet. From there, we had to fly to Vancouver to see a neurologist. As suspected, Sadie suffered a rare autoimmune reaction to the medication. She developed inflammation in her spine (myelitis), which has paralyzed her hind legs.

My world stopped.

Sadie is now on immunosuppressive drugs, steroids, and antibiotics to reduce the inflammation and give her the best chance at recovery. She has undergone an MRI, a CT scan, and several nights of overnight observation. The MRI alone cost $5,000. In just one month, I’ve spent over $17,000 on her care, and the costs continue to grow.

I never imagined I would need to ask for help like this. I am careful with money, but heartbreakingly, I had recently cancelled my pet insurance. I also haven’t been able to work, as Sadie is immunocompromised and requires constant care. I’m on my own, and I can’t leave her with anyone else.

Putting a price on love is impossible. I will do absolutely anything for my dog — and I am. But I can’t do it alone.

If you’re able to help in any way, even a small donation — $5, $10, anything at all — it truly makes a difference. Every bit adds up and goes directly toward Sadie’s treatment and recovery.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you to everyone who has already donated, shared, or sent love and support. Sadie feels it, and so do I. We are so grateful, and we’re holding onto hope every single day.

With love and gratitude,

Marnie & Sadie 🐾💛