October 21, 2025 is devoted to deep and profound gratitude.

 

8.11.25: I took my precious Jenni-boo to the vet to get her annual exam and had a cytology run on a mass. The results were not definitive due to blood contamination but they did find some cancer cells. The preliminary diagnosis was soft tissue sarcoma. I was referred to a vet oncologist to confirm the diagnosis, discuss prognosis and treatment plans.

 

9.22.25: I took Jenni to see the oncologist and she agreed with the preliminary diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma but said we'd need additional testing and a consult with the surgeon to confirm. We also discussed treatment plans, none of which I could afford. I was left wondering about Jenni's quality of life because I didn't have the financial means to get her treatment. The feeling of helplessness and the possibility of losing her absolutely broke my heart.

 

Before I left the appointment, the oncologist told me about Dogslife. I applied on 9.29.25. On 10.21.25, I received a call that Jenni was approved for a grant! I sat with tears streaming down my face when I wrote this for several reasons: Less than a month before I received Jenni's cancer diagnosis, I had to abruptly put down my sweet Sadie, my first love, due to cancer that had metastasized. The thought crossed my mind that I might lose another one of my precious girls to cancer less than a month apart. I felt like I couldn't catch an emotional break. Hope was restored when the oncologist told me about Dogslife charity.

 

On 10.21.25, my prayer was answered when I received the grant approval call and now with their help I can give Jenni a fighting chance to preserve her quality of life and give her the gift of time to spend with me and her younger sister, Sophie. Being Mama to my precious Jenni for the past 10 years has been one of the greatest joys and blessings of my life. As stubborn and temperamental as she can be, she's even more loving and affectionate. She’s a natural empath and has an innate ability to comfort during the really hard times life inevitably throws at us while also bringing so much joy, laughter and sweetness.

 

From her raspy bark demanding attention, belly rubs or treats to her playful puppy moments (even at 10 years old), my life is immeasurably richer and more meaningful ever since I brought her home on 11.18.15. Thank you Dogslife for being a blessing in our lives during our time of need.

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- Samantha