Terrence

About the Campaign

Terrence is a senior Terrier mix who already underwent TPLO surgery in October (with help from Free Animal Doctor), and his follow-up X-rays initially showed what looked like proper healing. But despite that, Terrence has continued to refuse to use the leg. After months of home physical therapy with little progress, his family paid for more specialist visits and new imaging—only to learn that the problem may be far more serious than delayed recovery.

Recent radiographs and surgeon follow-up raised several concerning possibilities, including infection, bone cancer, or severe osteoarthritis. Terrence’s family was told there are now difficult options to consider: pain management only, a biopsy with plate removal to identify the cause (and possibly relieve pain), or even amputation if necessary. They are also pursuing a second opinion, but at this point, the immediate next step appears to be another surgery for plate removal and biopsy to find answers.

Terrence has been with Tamara and James since he was about a year old, after being transported north from the South through a rescue in Minnesota. They had hoped to wait before getting another dog after losing Tamara’s childhood dog, Bandit, who lived to 19—but when they met Terrence, he won them over instantly. He was quiet, looked sad, and when he came over and rolled onto his back for belly rubs, they knew he was their guy.

This all started with what seemed like a limp that might improve with time. Terrence was first seen for this issue in April after limping for a few days, and this has now become the fourth vet visit related to the same leg. What they hoped was a strain or chronic tear that would settle has turned into a long, painful, expensive medical journey.

Tamara and James both work full time, but they are stretched thin by LA-area living costs, student loans, and housing expenses. Tamara works in theater education for a nonprofit, and James works in a chauffeur/car service job. They already paid a substantial portion of Terrence’s first surgery and have since spent heavily on specialist diagnostics trying to figure out why he still won’t use the leg. They are now maxed out on credit and running low on funds just as Terrence needs another major decision and likely another procedure.

Donations will help cover Terrence’s next surgery, including plate removal/biopsy and related specialty care to determine the cause of his ongoing pain and give him the best chance at comfort. All donations are paid only to the veterinarian. Estimate below, click to enlarge: