Our Story

In November 2025, my Chihuahua, Cujo, was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). As the veterinarian explained the disease and what may have triggered her symptoms, my mind raced. I felt confused, terrified, and completely overwhelmed.

Then came the guilt.

I should have known.

I should have recognized the signs.

I should have gotten pet insurance.

I should have taken her on more adventures.

These thoughts replayed over and over in my mind. Along with the emotional weight of her diagnosis came financial stress, sleepless nights, and trying to hold myself together while continuing to work. It felt like my world had been turned upside down.

The Grief No One Talks About

The hardest part wasn't just hearing the diagnosis. It was watching Cujo.

She didn't understand why she couldn't go on walks. She would look at me with her hopeful eyes and all I could offer her were stroller rides. She loved every single one, but I still cried. I wished I had taken her on more walks. I wished I had known how quickly life could change.

One of the hardest truths about IVDD is that it doesn't just simply disappear because they are literally born with it. Recovery is possible, but IVDD is a lifelong condition that requires care, awareness, and management. Even after healing, the fear of another flare up never completely leaves.

No one talks about the grief that comes with finding out your dog has IVDD. Grieving the life you thought they'd have, the carefree walks, the spontaneous adventures, and the routines that suddenly change overnight.

Finding Hope

For the first month, I felt completely alone. Then in December, I found an online IVDD support group.

I wasn't someone who posted, I quietly read the stories of people who had walked this road before me or the posts of the new families navigating the diagnosis. They shared their victories, setbacks, fears, and hope. Every post reminded me that I wasn't alone. That community changed everything for me.

They helped me understand the disease, gave me hope during the darkest days, and reminded me that healing isn't celebrated in giant milestones. Sometimes it's measured in one more step, one more tail wag, or one more good day.

Becoming an Advocate

As I learned about IVDD, I began wearing a custom lanyard that read, "IVDD Awareness" and "For my Chihuahua." Almost every time that someone noticed it, they asked me the same question:

"What's IVDD?"

That's when I realized how little awareness there is. I knew I wanted to change that.

If sharing Cujo's story could help even one family recognize the signs sooner, feel a little less alone, or spread hope, then it is worth telling.

That is why Cujo's Hope was born.

Be Positive

When Cujo experienced another flare up, I read something that I will never forget:

Dogs feel our energy.

No matter how anxious I felt inside, I chose to be her calm. I celebrated every tiny victory.

Every step. Every good day.

Everyday I reminded her that she was brave. I told her she was strong. I told her she was going to be okay. Somewhere along the way, I realized those words weren't just for her. They were for me too.

Today, Cujo is happier than ever. She continues to remind me that joy can exist alongside uncertainity.

She became my reason to advocate. My reason to educate. My reason to spread hope and positivity.

Meet Cujo

Cujo is more than the inspiration behind this website, she is its heart.

She taught me resilience, unconditional love, and the importance of finding joy in life's smallest moments.

She reminded me that healing isn't about perfection. It is about taking one step at a time.

Everything you see is because of her.

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