Facebook | Kimberly Woodruff

8-Year-Old Sells His Pokémon Cards To Help Pay For His Dog's Vet Bills

The news that a beloved family pet is sick can be heartbreaking, even more so when you're made aware you may not be able to save them.

When one family risked not being able to afford the procedure needed to save their puppy's life, the oldest son stepped in, ready and willing to part with something else he loved very much in order to pay the bill.

The love we have for our pets can sometimes rival that of family members.

They become integral parts of our lives and, yes, our family. That's why many people would be willing to do anything for their pet's safety and health.

That's why 8-year-old Bryson Kliemann was ready to part ways with his most prized collection in order to save the family dog, Bruce.

Four-month-old puppy Bruce had been acting strangely for a while. One trip to the vet later, and he was diagnosed with parvo, a virus that can be lethal if left untreated. The procedure needed to help him was $700, a cost the family couldn't manage.

"It made me kind of sad because usually my brother and sister play together, and I don't have anybody to play with. So, I usually play with him," Bryson said to ABC News.

Bryson wasn't about to let anything take his playmate away from him.

He thought up a quick business that could help him raise money for Bruce's treatment: selling his Pokémon cards.

He'd been collecting them for over four years, so he had quite a few to sell. He set up a table in front of his house with a large sign, aiming to sell them for $5-$10 apiece.

Bryson's mother, Kimberly Woodruff, received a picture of Bryson's setup from her husband.

The photo was then uploaded to Facebook, where it started growing popular. As People reported, members of the community wanted to donate to help out without needing a card in return, so Woodruff created a GoFundMe with a goal of $800.

Currently, they've raised over $24,000.

They were able to afford Bruce's treatment and Bryson didn't need to part with his passion, a most perfect ending.

Woodruff updated the fundraiser page after they met their goal, saying Bruce had his procedure and is recovering well. She also said any excess money would be donated back to other families in need.

"Bryson and I just want to thank everyone for all that you have done for us," she added. "He has received a lot of love and support from all over the United States and has well enough to help other families and reward himself as well."

h/t: People

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