Below is a letter written by US Navy member, Aaron Fortes, about his dog Tonton. These are his own words. To make a donation to support Tonton and Dogs on Deployment’s Pet Chit Financial Assistance Program which helps service members like Aaron, click here.
Aaron and Tonton together after surgery. Donate to help them here.
Dear supporters of Dogs on Deployment,
I am writing this letter to make a plea for my dearest dog Tonton. Tonton is my 5 year old pet and my most loving companion especially in times when I was having a crisis in my life in the military. Tonton has been with me since she was 2 years old when I adopted her and became part of my family together with my girlfriend. She has been my source of happiness, strength, and joy.
Around the first week of June 2020, Tonton suddenly started shaking, vomiting, and developing fever. I had no choice but to take her to her usual vet and they ran some blood work on her. To our surprise and worry, this was not just some regular vomiting; Tonton’s liver is starting to fail! We were referred to a Veterinary Specialty Hospital with an Internal Medicine unit to further diagnose what is causing her symptoms.
The veterinary specialty hospital did Ultrasound, blood tests, and other tests that initially cost us $1,000.00. The veterinarian ultimately gave us the answer: Tonton has gallbladder stones that need to be removed because it is about to rupture her gallbladder. This procedure (cholecystectomy) alone would cost more than $7,000.00.
My heart sank at the diagnosis and cost, but I could not say no to my most loved companion and family member!
Below are a few of Aaron’s favorite photos of Tonton.
I do not wish this to anyone that has a dog because it had been nothing but a rollercoaster of emotions. This is why I am pleading to all of you for any type of help or donation. I am currently in deep financial debt and trouble. I would be eternally grateful for any funds to alleviate my financial burden and help me and my dear dog Tonton!
Thank you!
Very Respectfully,
Aaron John S. Fortes
Hospital Corpsman, US Navy
Make a donation to support Aaron, Tonton and our Pet Chit Financial Assistance Program.
