Jewel Medical Update

Here at Paws Give Me Purpose, we pride ourselves on the ability to fully disclose information about our sanctuary residents to our supporters and donors. 

We must admit that we did procrastinate when it comes to the news we are about to share, but we did not want to put a damper on anyone’s New Year’s celebrations. We ask that you take a deep breath, read, and continue to send positive vibes and prayers Jewel’s way. 

Sadly, our tiny, senior Jewel does have cancer. While just 6 of her 10 tumors were removed during the first surgery, the biopsy results indicate some of the tumors are stage 2 and others stage 3 Carcinoma; it was also discovered during surgery that she also suffers from yellow fat disease. 

For the types of tumors Jewel has, median survival times and local tumor recurrence rates are significantly better for dogs with tumors measuring less than 3cm. Jewel’s tumors range from 3-5cm. Similarly, survival times are improved for dogs with lower stage disease, and Jewel falls right in between. The best course of action at this time was the surgery and she will have her last 4 tumors removed on January 18th in order to give her the best quality of life for as long as she is with us. 

Briefly we would like to touch on her issues of yellow fat disease. Yellow fat disease is the common name for a medical condition known as steatitis or pansteatitis. It is a very rare condition in dogs and is characterized by an inflammation of the fatty tissue that causes a hardening of the fat reserves, giving them a rubbery texture and yellowed appearance.

The possible factors which can cause a dog to develop this type of condition can include ingestion of affected animals, microcystin toxicity, poisoning from heavy metals, and unidentified pathogens. The prognosis for this condition is generally good, but her cancer is the more concerning issue. 

We know all this sounds scary and very technically medical, and it is, but what you all need to know is that Jewel is currently doing amazingly well. Her staples have been removed, she is enjoying being cone free for the next couple weeks, eating well, playing with other dogs, and taking her medications and supplements like a champ! 

We have discussed treatments with our Veterinary team and Jewel is taking necessary medications, supplements, and some homeopathic remedies in order to keep her feeling her best. Quality of life is top priority to us here at Paws Give Me Purpose, and we are making sure Jewel has everything she needs.

Although we cannot change Jewel’s past or take away the pain she must have felt the day her family surrendered her to the shelter, we can assure all of you that the day she arrived here was the beginning of her healing and her journey to enjoy the life she should have had. 

With you by our side, we can give Jewel the chance to have the opportunity to live out her golden years to the fullest – she deserves this second chance to be happy, loved and cherished.