Help Retired K9 Duke Walk Again After Tragic Accident

Story

Our names are Mark and Laura Thompson. A few months ago, we welcomed Duke into our home — a retired black and tan German Shepherd who had spent eight years serving as a K9 officer. After a lifetime of work, he finally deserved a quiet, loving retirement. He deserved lazy afternoons, belly rubs, and slow walks around the neighborhood.

On the evening of September 8, 2026, everything changed.

Duke was walking with our family on the sidewalk near our home when a car lost control on the wet pavement. Before anyone could react, the vehicle struck him. The sound still haunts us. By the time we got him to the emergency vet, both of his hind legs had been injured beyond repair. The veterinary team did everything they could, but the damage was too great. Duke underwent emergency surgery to amputate both rear limbs.

He made it through. That brave, stubborn heart of his kept beating. But now Duke needs help learning to walk again.

Duke needs a custom pair of bilateral prosthetic limbs and a mobility harness, along with months of specialized physical therapy. The total cost is estimated at $18,500. This includes the prosthetics, fittings, rehabilitation, and ongoing veterinary care to keep him comfortable and strong.

We have done what we can, but these costs are not fully covered. We cannot do this alone. We are a working family with two children, and while we will cut every expense we can and do whatever it takes, we still need the help of people who understand that a dog like Duke is never "just a dog."

Duke gave his best years in service to others. Now we are asking anyone with a kind heart to help give him the comfortable retirement he deserves.

Every dollar matters. Every share matters. If you cannot donate, please share this page. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

— Mark, Laura & Duke