Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue wasted no time when they received a distressing report about a Weimaraner facing euthanasia at a high-kill shelter.
But when they arrived, they were shocked—the dog had an enormous 12-pound tumor hanging from his chest, making it nearly impossible for him to stand.
Nicknamed Gilbert Grape due to the tumor’s size and shape, the stray had been picked up by animal control in Arizona on a scorching summer day. He was placed in the shelter’s isolation ward, where sick or aggressive animals often await their fate.
Due to standard shelter protocol, he had to remain unexamined for 72 hours, giving a potential owner time to claim him. But under a special county program, pre-approved rescues could intervene sooner for medical emergencies.
When volunteers alerted Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue, they sprang into action. They rushed Gilbert to a 24-hour veterinary facility, where he underwent emergency stabilization, including blood transfusions and intravenous support. Surgeons determined that removing the tumor was his only chance at survival.
The cost of diagnosis, treatment, and surgery was estimated at $7,000—a daunting amount for a rescue organization relying on donations.
“For rescue volunteers and veterinary staff, saving his life was the only option,” said Kerry Pink, a media relations volunteer for the rescue. “But we knew we needed public support.”
Recognizing the urgency, the rescue launched a fundraising campaign. They shared Gilbert’s story on Facebook, and soon, donations poured in.
With the funds secured, he underwent surgery. The massive tumor was successfully removed, and just two days later, he was strong enough to leave intensive care.
A week after his operation, the pathology results brought incredible news—the tumor was a benign lipoma, meaning Gilbert was cancer-free. Though he had endured months, possibly years, of suffering, his future was now full of hope.
Despite his newfound freedom from the tumor, Gilbert had challenges ahead. Carrying the extra weight for so long had weakened his muscles, causing ataxia in his hind legs and an unstable gait.
He would need extensive physiotherapy, including massage, mobility exercises, and water therapy, to rebuild his strength.
As he recovered, Gilbert’s personality began to shine. “Even though he’s still physically fragile, his goofy and loving nature becomes more evident every day,” said his foster parent. His heartwarming journey reached thousands online, and adoption applications poured in.
A year after his rescue, Gilbert found his forever home with a dedicated and loving family. Although he was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, his new home included a pool, allowing him to continue water therapy.
He thrived in his new environment, quickly bonding with his family and enjoying a second chance at life.
Gilbert was rescued in 2013, and his story remains a testament to the incredible work of Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue.
They continue to save dogs with special needs, severe medical conditions, and those abandoned in shelters with nowhere else to turn.
If Gilbert’s journey inspired you, consider supporting your local rescue or sharing this story with others!
