Rescued Dog’s Second Chance: Overcoming Abandonment and Massive Tumor to Start Anew

Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue sprang into action when they received a report about a Weimaraner at a high-𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 shelter facing euthanasia. However, their initial shock turned to horror when they discovered the dog, who they named Gilbert Grape, had a large tumor on his underbelly making it difficult for him to stand. It’s unclear how long Gilbert had been suffering without medical attention or how he managed to survive. Keri Pink, a media relations volunteer with TPWR, shared Gilbert’s story with DogHeirs, detailing his rescue and ongoing recovery. Gilbert was found as a stray during a scorching Arizona summer day with a diseased tumor, leaving him confined to the concrete floor in the shelter’s isolation section.

We affectionately named him Gilbert Grape due to the enormous grape-shaped mass hanging from his chest. Gilbert Grape was taken to a veterinary hospital that specializes in 24-hour care. The veterinary team determined that he required blood transfusions and intravenous catheter stabilization before the surgeon could attempt to remove the tumor in order to save his life. The estimated cost for the diagnosis, stabilization, and surgery was approximately $7,000. For the rescue volunteers and veterinary staff, rescuing Gilbert Grape was an obvious choice. However, there is a fine line between the life-saving treatment that a private pet owner would provide for their animal and the treatment that a rescued dog should receive. While private pet owners have the freedom to make their own decisions, rescues rely on the support of the public.

It was not clear about Gilbert’s age and health history, but his blood test results were mostly normal except for a high white blood cell count caused by the infected tumor. It was estimated that he was around seven years old. Despite this, the team noticed a glimmer of hope in Gilbert’s eyes and wanted to provide him with a chance. However, they recognized that they would require support from the public.

Therefore, we consulted with several veterinary professionals and surgical experts to determine the best course of action for the dog’s well-being. In addition, we launched a social media campaign and informed our Facebook followers about the situation, resulting in a significant influx of donations.

During his follow-up medical evaluation, the surgical staples in his chest were taken out and he was declared healthy. However, Gilbert had to endure the loss of muscle mass and physiological strain due to carrying the tumor for over a year. The veterinarians noted that his rear legs were ataxic and he had very little muscular mass throughout his body. This causes him to have an awkward gait due to his incorrect center of gravity. Despite his physical fragility, Gilbert’s foster father is delighted to witness his charming and humorous personality shining through more and more every day. Soon, Gilbert will undergo a physical therapy program consisting of manipulations, massages, and water treatments to aid in his recovery.

Gilbert’s story touched the hearts of many, and it is likely that numerous adoption requests were granted as a result. Although he is not yet available for adoption, Gilbert’s future looks promising. Thanks to the love and dedication of his adoptive family, he has been thriving after being rescued a year ago. Despite being diagnosed with hip dysplasia, his family installed a pool so that he could receive regular water therapy. Gilbert has also bonded extremely well with his new family.