Matilda is an aged female Papillon Cross. She had been seen by a young family wandering the local area for the previous 7 days. It was obvious she was unwell. There were 2 large breast cancers of a minimum 6-7cm diameter hanging under her belly.
Matilda was brought to the surgery for further care by the young samaratans. She was at least 12 - 13 years of age. She was mildly anemic. She had a very poor mouth with at least 4 loose rotten teeth. One of the large breast tumours had ruptured and was infected. There were 6 further breast tumours forward of the larger masses. She had a fever of 39.9oC. The familiy took a shine to their new friend and wished to give her a second chance for what time there may be left.
Preoperative intravenous antibiotics and fluids were administered. Chest xrays revealed no spread of the tumours to the lungs. Matilda was desexed. Her uterus was one step from turning into a nasty infection. Two of the smaller breast tumours were removed on the left hand forward side of the abdomen as well as the two large breast cancers. Three rotten canine teeth and a large premolar were extracted. Given the extent of the surgery, there was minimal haemorrhage. However Matilda was very weak post-operatively. Her pupils were unequal in size and her eyes were slowly flicking horizontally. Her red cell volume had dropped to 10% (normal 37 - 55%). The family were informed and support care was continued. By 6pm, Matilda's nerve problems had resolved and she started to respond to voices. Her red cell volume had risen to 13%.
The following day, a full blood test revealed Matilda's anaemia was stable and the bone marrow was responding appropriately. The serum protein however was dangerously low. Intravenous doses of synthetic colloids quickly corrected the situation. By the second day after the massive operation, this lovely old dog was alert, mobile, walking outside to go to the toilet and eating well. She surprised everyone and her blood volume had increased to 15%. Her new family were ecstatic to take her home with antibiotics and iron folate capsules.
One week later we were delighted to see Matilda. All her surgery sites had healed completely. Her appetite was great but she was cheekily becoming fussy.Her red cell volume was virtually normal (29%). She was microchipped and vaccinated. Plans have been laid to remove the remaining strip of 4 breast tumours in one month.
Matilda's story underlines the strength and courage of our pets and how tender hearts can be warmed by any age.