In the summer of 2014 Sheba was rescued by the SPCA from a cruelty situation. She was left outside on a metal prong collar 24/7 and was not well cared for. She was malnourished, infected with fleas, had ear and skin infections, and was missing much of her fur around her neck area. The SPCA had nursed her back to health and when we adopted her in October she only had some small issues left to deal with. We worked with a local vet to resolve these issues and put her on a healthy diet. Her health was excellent after resolving these issues and she was a very fit and happy dog.
In April 2015 Sheba had yelped while turning at the top of stairs and once while running on a hike. Both times she quickly got over the pain and continued on. There was no limp and after examining her closely we found no issue. It was easy to explain away as just tweaking something or possibly stepping on something sharp. Two weeks later we noticed her limping with her front left leg and took her to the vet a few days later. The vet examined her and listed some possibilities, and she was given metacam for 5 days. For several days after finishing the metacam she had no limp and was doing her regular activities, but then started limping again a few days later. We took her back to the vet and they x-rayed her leg, which showed an abnormality. We were referred to a specialist at a nearby clinic and were in the next day for more tests. The specialist felt the x-ray showed either a cyst or cancer, and because of her age and how the abnormality showed on the xray, he felt a cyst was more likely. More x-rays were performed and we decided to do a Fine Needle Aspirate as it was less obtrusive than a biopsy, although would not be as definite. The results came back and showed it was likely cancer. We discussed the results with the specialist and vet. We were in denial, how could this be cancer? The best option seemed to be amputation. We struggled with this decision as we did not have definite results. It was decided a biopsy should be performed. We wanted to be sure we were doing the right thing for Sheba. The biopsy came back with 100% confirmation of Osteosarcoma. Amputation was completed a few days later.
It is just awful to be faced with this diagnosis and then have to deal with amputation. We are all here right by your side, okay
Just remember, Sheba doesn’t give a rip about any ole stupid diagnosis. All she cares about is getting that painful leg removed and soaking up all the loving, the spoiling, the tummy rubs and treats she can get!! And I’ve got a feeling it’s a lot!
Stay in the moment, in the present…Sheba sure is!
Sending hugs and healing energy to sweet Sheba!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
PS. Sheba DEFINITELY won the puppy lottery when she picked you! I shudder to think what would happen nad you not adopted her.
She clearly is a strong willed dog…a fighter…and that kind of attitude goes a long way!