Please help Merlin the Great Dane get his leg braces.

Welcome! We are proposing to raise funds to help with the purchase of leg braces for a furry friend in need. We will spread the word to our friends, family, rescue groups and those with caring hearts to help us reach our goal of $800. We hope to accomplish this goal by July 4th, 2007!

Here is his story:

Our precious boy Merlin is a 6 year old Great dane. He has been fortunate enough in his life to always be fed, warm, loved and adored, unlike most animals on Fundable. Not only is he huge but he has a huge heart. He has helped rescue and raise over a hundred orphaned or abandoned cats, kittens, puppies and dogs. His Mom , a veterinary technician, brings her work home alot and Merlin is always there to help. He plays with and teaches the dogs and helps comfort and clean the kittens. No creature is too great or too small to escape him. Unfortunately Merlins rescue efforts may come to an end. Two years ago Merlins back legs began to deteriorate. First the muscles atrophied and weakened then the bone began to shrink. At first thought to be osteosarcoma the outlook was grim. After several orthopedic specialist, numerous x rays and a frighting ultrasound they finally out ruled cancer. The specialist ran more and more tests only to determine that the bones may eventually weaken to the point of fracture with out any known cause. With his large size and age surgery after a break like that would not be successful, especially if it were both legs at the same time. Well for us that was not an answer so we took matters into our own hands. Over the past year and a half we have done our own research and treatments and successfully kept the bones from shrinking any further. Merlin gets around and still enjoys time at the dog park and camping but every day is a struggle. Even though the bones are keeping size they are still very weak and thin. He compensates by carrying most of his weight on his front legs and staying off his feet, which he cant keep up much longer.

1 week ago we ran across an ad for a doctor who specializes in constructing custom orthopedic devices. www.orthopets.com. It was a long shot but we decided to give it a try. We got an appointment the very next day to our surprise. The specialist gave us news that we have wanted to hear for a long time now. He believes that with the help of leg braces we can strengthen the bones, realign the legs, and rebuild the muscles in both rear legs! Not only will it prevent the bones from breaking but it will allow Merlin the use of both his rear legs normally without the pain.
The devices are costly, $862.00 to be exact. We want this more then ever for Merlin but need your help. Please help us give this deserving friend the devices he needs to live a comfortable life.
Any donation you can make will be greatly appreciated by Merlin and his family.

Wont you please help Merlin run and play again?