Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out with a heavy hearts and hopeful spirits to ask for your help. My beautiful dog River has been diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening condition called cutaneous pythiosis—an aggressive skin infection caused by a waterborne organism that rapidly destroys tissue and doesn’t respond to typical medications.

River likely contracted this infection through a small wound after contact with standing water. Since then, it’s progressed quickly, causing a large, painful lesion that continues to grow despite our best efforts.

River is scheduled for surgery on May 5th, where veterinarians will remove all infected tissue along with a wide margin of surrounding skin to give her the best chance at recovery. This is a major and urgent surgery, followed by weeks—possibly months—of healing, specialized care, and possibly additional treatments like immunotherapy to fight off any remaining infection.

River has been so strong through all of this. She’s still wagging her tail, leaning into cuddles, and trying to enjoy her days despite the pain. We want to give her every chance to keep fighting and to get back to the joyful, active life she loves.

The cost of surgery, aftercare, and treatment is overwhelming, and that’s why we’re asking for help. Every donation, no matter how small, goes directly toward River’s medical expenses and recovery. If you’re not in a position to donate, we completely understand—but even sharing this page means the world to us.

Thank you so much for your support, your kindness, and your love for River.

With Love

Alexa & River