Read Inspiring Stories
Tatum
Age: 9 Years Old
Breed: American Pit Bull Terrier
Condition: Nasal Fibrosarcoma
Tatum, a 9-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier, was referred to us by Hunter Animal Hospital after being diagnosed with a nasal mass, fibrosarcoma, back in March 2019. This diagnosis came after a four-month history of nose bleeds.
At VetMed, our team carried out multiple nasal tumor debulking procedures on Tatum to manage the small tumor regrowths, and improve his quality of life. Through 19 separate visits for tumor debulking, Tatum bravely faced each procedure, resulting in an additional 3.5 years of quality life post-diagnosis. This outcome was a testament to the collaborative effort between VetMed and Hunter Animal Hospital, aimed at providing Tatum with the necessary care. Tatum's family is deeply thankful for the additional 3.5 years they had with him.
Janus
Age: 17 Years Old
Breed: Siamese
Condition: Nasal Carcinoma
In April 2021, Janus, a 17-year-old Siamese cat was referred to us by Mountain View Animal Hospital following a diagnosis of nasal carcinoma, exhibited by persistent sneezing and mucousy discharge. On arrival at VetMed, our team worked diligently to debulk the nasal mass obstructing her nasal passage, a procedure that significantly benefited Janus. This was followed by a treatment of HDR Brachytherapy (radiation) to manage the carcinoma further.
Our continued care, involving regular follow-ups to monitor and debulk any regrowth of tissue, significantly extended Janus' life by an additional two years post-diagnosis, enabling her to share numerous cherished adventures with her owner. Though the journey posed challenges, it was enriched with moments of joy and comfort, exemplifying the profound effect of timely, collaborative veterinary care. Janus' story ended peacefully as she passed away in her sleep from an unknown cause, leaving behind a tale of resilience, expert care, and the enduring bond between pets and their owners.
Scooter
Age: 11 Years Old
Breed: Shih Tzu
Condition: Chronic Bladder Stones
Referred to us by Hillside Veterinary Hospital due to a chronic history of bladder stones—once managed by surgical cystotomy—Scooter found respite through our innovative, less invasive approach. Despite initial surgery, Scooter's discomfort resurfaced, evidenced by frequent urination and straining, with radiographs confirming recurring stones.
Transitioning to our care, we employed a regime of regular ultrasound examinations to monitor his bladder, identifying stone formation early. Through gentle, timely flushing procedures, we effectively removed the small stones, averting the dangers of urinary obstruction or the need for laser lithotripsy to fragment larger stones.
Diesel
Age: 3 Years Old
Breed: Miniature Pinscher
Condition: Gastrointestinal Foreign Body
In March 2021, we were introduced to Diesel, a vivacious 3-year-old Miniature Pinscher, whose sudden illness over a span of 2-4 days brought him to our clinic. His alarming symptoms included a loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, dehydration, and noticeable weight loss. A prior visit to an emergency clinic hinted at a possible mass in his stomach.
However, upon arrival at VetMed, our dedicated team performed repeat diagnostics and an endoscopy to ascertain the root cause of his distress. To our surprise, the culprit was a foreign body—a small potato—lodged within his stomach. With meticulous care, we successfully removed the foreign body, casting a promising prognosis for Diesel's swift recovery.
Maddie
Age: 11 Years Old
Breed: Chihuahua
Condition: Epiglottic Retroversion
Maddie was having breathing issues from October 2023, until January 2024. Maddy's owner took her to multiple veterinarians who put her on steroids thinking she had either an allergy or obstruction in her nose.
After not much improvement, their vet referred Maddie to VetMed. We did several procedures to help Maddie breathe better. Maddie's owner said, "They were beyond patient and always checked in with me to see how she was doing. After three different procedures, we finally figured out what her issues were, and she is now doing very well. She’s an older dog and I was worried about her, but VetMed reassured me that she had plenty of years left."
Share Your Pet's Story
If VetMed has been a part of your pet's journey to wellness, we invite you to share your story here—because nothing offers hope and encouragement to a pet parent facing challenges quite like real-life tales of transformation and healing.