8-year-old sells prized Pokémon cards to pay for ailing dog's treatment — then neighbors set up a gift
Some stories just steal your heart. In a heartwarming incident, an 8-year-old sold his collection of Pokémon cards to save his ailing dog, Bruce. Bryson realized that his family was strapped for cash when the vet recommended $650 worth of treatment. Almost immediately, the eight-year-old made a decision that even adults would think twice before committing to.
Virginia resident Bryson went above and beyond in caring for his dog. Being an avid fan of the iconic cartoon series, Pokémon, he spent years collecting each card. The price of Pokémon cards can range between $10 and $5,280,000, but the little boy never thought his knack for archiving memories could be utilized in such a pure way. It was in 2021 when Bruce turned lethargic and avoided leaving his cage. His unusual activities prompted the family to take him to the Southwest Virginia Veterinary Services, where he was diagnosed with parvovirus — a contagious disease common among canines. The treatment cost was around $700, which was extremely expensive for the family. But for Bryson, he couldn’t risk losing his pet so soon, and that is when he decided to sell his Pokémon card collection.
After analyzing the situation, the next day, he packed a bunch of papers together in his school bag and drew a stand that he envisioned using to sell his Pokémon cards. The decision was made, the plan was ready, and only the execution was left. He was discouraged by his mother at first, but stern Bryson completely ignored her and moved ahead with his plan to save Bruce. The next day, his father called his mother informing her that their son was sitting outside with a sign that said “Pokemon 4 sale.”
Each Pokémon card was sold for $5 to $10. Soon, neighbours started noticing his efforts and initially wondered if he was seeking extra money, but when they learned the reason behind his actions, the word spread, and he collected $400. For the pending amount, his mother initiated a GoFundMe titled “Just a boy trying to save his dog,” and finally, after a combined effort, the money to save Bruce was raised. His actions were a hit and all for the right reasons. The campaign has raised $28,505 so far with people all over the world, including Australia and China, stepping in to contribute to his efforts. Although their initial goal was only $800, the additional money was donated to local animal shelters. The money was also used for four other families who needed help to rescue their dogs.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), all dogs are affected by parvovirus, which was caught by Bruce. Although puppies between the ages of 6 and 20 weeks, unvaccinated, and dogs of breeds including Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, Bull terrier breeds, German Shepherds, and English Springer spaniels are highly susceptible. Lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common symptoms, but a proper vet checkup is a must. The disease is equivalent to a cold in humans, easily communicable by coming in contact with an infected animal. Regular booster doses are given to puppies for their treatment, which costs around $700 — the same as Bruce's. Getting your dog vaccinated can help prevent this disease.