Meet Neko, a 3-year-old Mastiff/Akita mix with a gentle soul and a very treatable medical need-he just can't heal in the shelter. Neko was recently hospitalized for increased respiratory effort, which doctors believe is due to severe heartworm disease causing congestive heart failure-type symptoms (pneumonia was also considered). The good news? He responded well to treatment, stabilized on medication, and received his first fast-kill heartworm injection (Immiticide). He is now bright, alert, responsive, eating well, and breathing normally at rest. What Neko Needs Now Neko's recovery depends on something the shelter cannot provide: strict, quiet rest in a home environment. For the next 8 weeks, he must have: Strict crate/cage rest Only slow, short leash walks to potty or sit quietly outside Careful monitoring of his breathing and appetite Medication administration (all provided and manageable) This rest is critical to safely complete heartworm treatment and prevent life-threatening complications.