I've had Missy since she was 10 weeks old when I adopted her and her brother Elliot from a local dairy farmer. Unfortunately, she and her brother both contracted panleukopenia and due to Elliot's already existing ear condition, his immune system was already compromised. After I lost him, Missy was left behind.

A few days later Missy showed the first symptoms of having contracted the disease and was rushed to the vets. With much care and love, I cooked for her every day for 6 months a meal of chicken, rice and charcoal tablets and against all odds, she pulled through but always remained very small. Missy and I have been together for over 16 years now and she's never had any problems until now...

Missy's teeth are rotting away and due to some surprise bills that hit me right before Christmas (because bill collectors like to harass you around that time of year with bills you never even heard of) I am currently not in a financial position to help my little furry partner.

They say, "if you can't afford to care for an animal, you shouldn't have one" and most of the time, I will agree with this statement. But I also believe there are exceptions. Someone should not have to give up a furry family member just because of a 1 time outstanding bill. I would do the same for anyone in my position. I live on my own and Missy provides the only companionship I have! Please, if you can spare anything at all, Missy and I would be so very grateful. Knowing she's in pain is breaking my heart and all I can do for her myself is give her a little pain relief in her food every day. Please help her, she's been my rock for such a long time, and I couldn't have done without her.