Tripp is the sweetest boy who was dumped and left to fend for himself. We rescued him about three weeks ago, and in that very short time, he has completely stolen our hearts.
Unfortunately, we quickly learned that Tripp has serious medical problems. He has an extreme case of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), as well as a large sliding hiatal hernia. Together, these conditions cause him to struggle to breathe and repeatedly regurgitate, putting him at constant risk of aspirating into his lungs or having his airway become completely compromised.
This medical condition was discovered on September 30, Tripp experienced an extreme episode of more than 20 back-to-back regurgitations. We rushed him to NC State Emergency Services, where he was hospitalized for two days. He was sent home to await a surgical consult so his airway could be corrected and the hernia repaired.
After coming home his problems continued. Another series of episodes sent him back to the emergency room on October 3, and by October 5, he needed to be hospitalized again, this time at Wake Veterinary Hospital. The doctors planned to do surgery when he was more stable.
Unfortunately, today October 7, while still hospitalized, Tripp suffered another severe episode. This time, his airway became compromised and he aspirated. His doctors determined that he could no longer safely wait for surgery. He is now undergoing emergency surgery in hopes of correcting the problems that are threatening his life.
In less than one week, Tripp’s veterinary bills have already exceeded $13,000. With today’s emergency surgery and the hospitalization and postoperative care he will need afterward, we expect the total cost to reach approximately $20,000. We got insurance for Tripp the day we adopted him but these problems started while he was in his waiting period and they have been deemed pre-existing conditions and will not pay.
We never expected that just three weeks after bringing this sweet boy into our lives, we would be fighting so hard to save his. But after everything Tripp has already been through, we want to give him every chance possible to finally have the healthy, safe and loved life he deserves.
Any contribution toward Tripp’s medical expenses would mean so much to him and us. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing his story would also be an incredible help.
Thank you for helping us give Tripp the chance at the life he should have had all along.
