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Some dogs are a little shy around strangers. Haru, on the other hand, doesn’t know the definition of shy.
The four-and-a-half-year-old Maltese from Calgary believes every person he meets is simply a friend he hasn't kissed yet. He's a professional wiggle butt, a champion cuddler, and, according to his mom Lili, equal parts adorable and sassy.
Whether he's making new friends or collecting compliments, Haru trots through life with enthusiasm. Which is why seeing him suddenly become so sick was incredibly frightening.
When Something Didn't Feel Right
The happy little dog who normally bounced through the house looking for attention suddenly seemed quiet and tired. He developed diarrhea. He wasn't interested in eating. His energy disappeared.
Lili knew Haru wasn't acting like himself and brought him in for veterinary care. What started as concerning symptoms quickly became something much more serious.
Bloodwork revealed that Haru's platelet count and white blood cell count had dropped to dangerously low levels. He required hospitalization and intensive treatment while his veterinary team worked to stabilize him and figure out what was happening.
The Hardest Part: Not Knowing
While Haru received treatment, Lili found herself dealing with the fear and uncertainty that so many pet parents know all too well. She just wanted her fur baby to get better.
"Haru's illness was one of the most difficult experiences I've been through, both emotionally and financially," she shared.
As the days stretched on, medical costs continued to grow alongside the stress of having a sick pet.
Thankfully, she wasn't facing it alone.
How Furkin Helped
By the end of Haru's treatment, veterinary costs had climbed to more than $16,000.
While Haru focused on healing, Furkin was there to cover 80% of eligible costs and helped make the claims process simple and straightforward, giving Lili one less thing to worry about during an already overwhelming time.
"Knowing that I had support allowed me to focus on Haru's recovery instead of worrying about the cost of his care."
— Lili, Furkin Member Since 2024
For many pet parents, financial stress can add another layer of worry to an already emotional situation. Having coverage meant Lili could focus on what mattered most: being there for Haru.
"I am truly grateful to the Furkin team for being there for us when we needed it most."
One Tough Little Maltese
Haru still had a journey ahead of him, but throughout it all, he showed just how resilient he could be.
"This experience reminded me how precious our time with our pets is and how important it is to seek care early and never give up hope," Lili says.
Slowly but surely, Haru began getting stronger. And little by little, the dog Lili knew and loved began reappearing.
Back to Being Haru
Today, Haru has recovered remarkably well. The appetite is back. The personality is back. The wiggle butt is back in full force. And the endless supply of kisses? Also back.
For Lili, seeing him happy, playful, and enjoying life again feels like the greatest gift.
The little dog who suddenly became so quiet is once again making friends everywhere he goes, collecting compliments, and charming absolutely everyone he meets.
After everything they went through together, these little moments mean a little more.
