Queen Creek resident gets relief from pet’s veterinary bills

After months of emergency veterinary visits, surgery and mounting medical expenses, Queen Creek resident Kylie Jefferson and her beloved dog, Rosie, received $2,000 in pet relief through First Credit Union’s Tails of Giving program.

Rosie and Jefferson received the prize on Tuesday at First Credit Union, 25 S. Arizona Place in Chandler. The presentation marks the first award through Tails of Giving, a community initiative launched this summer in collaboration with Squaw Peak Animal Hospital and HOT 97.5 to help Arizona families facing the financial burden of caring for their pets.

“Pets are family, and we know that unexpected veterinary expenses can create real financial hardship,” Jay Curtis, president and CEO of First Credit Union, stated in a press release. “Through Tails of Giving, we’re proud to provide meaningful support while celebrating the incredible connection between people and their pets.”

The prize will help cover Rosie’s recommended physical therapy, joint and dental supplements, prescription food and other ongoing care, along with veterinary support for her younger canine brother, Rocky, the release continues. 

“Rosie plays hard and loves harder,” Jefferson stated. “I am so thankful to have Rosie still with me, but it does not come without significant financial hardship.”

The 8-year-old Heeler mix has been Jefferson’s constant companion since she was 19. Earlier this year, a routine game of fetch took a turn when Rosie returned limping and stopped putting weight on her right leg.

A veterinarian determined she suffered a torn cranial cruciate ligament. Rosie then experienced a serious reaction to pain medication, requiring five days of emergency veterinary care, the release stated.

Jefferson pursued a custom brace in hopes Rosie could heal without surgery, but her condition worsened and began affecting her meniscus. Surgery ultimately became the best option to help Rosie return to the active life she loves. More recently, Rosie required another veterinary procedure to remove a tooth.

According to Jefferson, the months of veterinary care exhausted her savings, but Rosie is now recovering and slowly returning to her favorite activity: playing fetch.