Oreo's Critical Need: We've Hit a Wall
Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, we're filled with hope for what this year can bring for the animals in our care. But today, we're coming to you with an honest update and an urgent need.
We believe in transparency with our community—it's the foundation of trust. So we're being direct: Oreo needs your help, and we need it now.
We just received concerning news from our holistic veterinarian: Oreo’s liver values have increased.
Despite our careful holistic care and personalized nutrition plan, her ALT liver values have gone up on recent bloodwork. This is unexpected and requires immediate investigation.
What This Means
Our veterinarian is recommending additional diagnostic testing to understand what’s happening with Oreo’s liver:
1. Liver Ultrasound - To check for structural abnormalities, masses, or other issues
2. Bile Acid Test - To determine precisely HOW Oreo’s liver is functioning These aren’t optional. Without understanding why her liver values are elevated, we can’t safely continue her other treatments. We need to know if this is:
- A reaction to medication
- A pre-existing condition we didn’t know about Something treatable with dietary changes
- A more serious concern requiring intervention
Ballpark cost for both tests: $2,000
This is on top of the $820 we were already raising for her electroacupuncture, PT equipment and her daily medicine and supplements.
The New Reality
Original fundraising need: $820
New diagnostic testing: $2,000
TOTAL URGENT NEED: $2,820
We know this is a lot. We’re devastated that just as we were making progress on one front, we’ve hit this setback. But Oreo’s liver function is critical—we cannot move forward with any treatment plan without understanding what’s happening.
This isn't a wish list. This isn't a "nice to have." This is the difference between Oreo staying where she is or continuing her healing journey.
What Oreo Needs RIGHT NOW
Healing Support for Oreo
- Liver Ultrasound - To check for structural abnormalities, masses, or other issues
- Bile Acid Test - To determine precisely HOW Oreo’s liver is functioning These aren’t optional. Without understanding why her liver values are elevated, we can’t safely continue her other treatments.
- Three electroacupuncture treatments to stimulate nerve regeneration and improve the deep pain response we discovered in her consultation. Electroacupuncture combines traditional acupuncture with gentle electrical stimulation to enhance nerve function and healing.
Why three sessions? Research shows that nerve stimulation therapy is most effective when done consistently. Three sessions allow us to see meaningful progress and adjust the treatment plan based on Oreo's response.
The good news? When we pre-purchase three sessions, we get a price break: $300 instead of $375. But we need to pay upfront.
Cost: $300
4. Adaptive Physical Therapy Device - $350 Oreo's current wheels help her get around, but she needs a second set that can be modified into a physical therapy device.
This specialized equipment will allow us to: Think of it like the difference between crutches and a physical therapy harness—both help mobility, but one actively builds strength for potential recovery. Her physical therapist has specific modifications in mind that could make a real difference in Oreo's function and comfort.
- $50/month – Denamarin:
Helps lower her liver enzymes and reverse her liver disease.
- $20 – Gabapentin prescription:
Eases her nerve pain so she can rest and heal comfortably.
- $100 – Jing Tang herbal formulas:
Vital for reducing muscle pain & fighting her antibiotic-resistant UTI
(She requires 2 formulas daily, totaling $70/month.)
TOTAL NEEDED: $2,820
Every treatment brings Oreo one step closer to walking again — and she’s already showing encouraging signs of healing thanks to compassionate supporters like you. 💛
Can't Donate? You Can Still Help!
🔄 Share Oreo's story on social media - Tag 3 friends who love animals
💬 Comment on our posts to boost visibility in algorithms
📧 Forward this newsletter to someone who might want to help
EXCITING NEWS: 2026 Gold Seal of Transparency!
We Did It—Thanks to YOU!
We are THRILLED to announce that we've earned the prestigious 2026 Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar/Candid!
What does this mean?
The Gold Seal of Transparency is awarded to nonprofits that go above and beyond in sharing their operations, finances, and impact with the public. Out of 1.8 million nonprofits in the United States, fewer than 1% achieve this Gold level of recognition.
This seal means:
✅ Complete financial transparency - You can see exactly where every dollar goes
✅ Verified impact metrics - Our outcomes are measured and reported
✅ Governance accountability - Our board and operations meet the highest standards
✅ Mission clarity - We practice what we preach
This isn't just an award—it's a promise to you.
When you donate to our organization, you can trust with absolute confidence that your money goes directly to animal care. No hidden fees, no administrative bloat, no surprises. Just honest, transparent work saving lives.
Why This Matters for Oreo (and All Our Animals)
This Gold Seal means when we tell you Oreo needs $820 for her next phase of treatment, you can trust:
- That's the actual cost
- The money will be used exactly as stated
- We're managing resources responsibly
- Your donation makes a direct, measurable impact
We don't take your trust lightly. This recognition validates what we've always believed: donors deserve complete honesty and transparency.
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Want to Volunteer with Us?
Do you love animals, holistic health, and helping grassroots nonprofits grow? We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re local or live miles away, we welcome your talents.
Reply to this email to learn more about volunteering opportunities.
Thank you for being a part of our community, and for helping Emerald Ark take flight—one paw, wing, or tail at a time.
With love and light,
The Emerald Ark Team
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