Animal shelters do an incredible job of giving pets a second chance. Some animals arrive at shelters in shocking conditions, but the staff still go out of their way to give them the love and care they need. That was the case with a dog named Libby, who had a tumor the size of a volleyball. But now her story has a happy ending.
In August 2023, the Humane Society of Tacoma and Pierce County in Washington State took in a stray pit bull named Libby. They said the dog was “full of life” and had a “sweet face and kind eyes.” However, Libby also had a serious medical problem: a 10-pound tumor the size of a volleyball, one of the largest they had ever seen:
Libby arrived at the shelter at a busy time: HSTPC says Libby was just one of three emergency cases they responded to in 48 hours, and as Washington’s largest shelter, dozens of new animals were arriving daily. Despite this, they were determined to give Libby the best care possible, even though they weren’t sure what the future held for the poor dog. “She deserves the most compassionate care possible, but we don’t yet know what the outcome will be,” the shelter wrote. “Our veterinary team is working on all options and will begin with an examination to understand what type of tumor Libby has. In the meantime, she is receiving pain medications to ease her discomfort and endless love from our staff.” After Libby was x-rayed, it was discovered that the tumor was located in the bone of her upper right leg and would require amputation. Reactive inflammation had caused the tumor to grow to an unusual size and was causing her excruciating pain.
Thanks to generous donations from supporters, the shelter was able to pay for the amputation of Libby’s leg. The surgery, performed by the veterinary staff at BluePearl Pet Hospital, was a success, and Libby is finally free from the pain she had been living in. Unfortunately, even after the tumor was removed, she was diagnosed with aggressive bone cancer, and her time on earth may be limited. But the good news is, Libby has found a home!
Libby Finds a Forever Family
According to HSTPC, a veterinary technician fell in love with Libby and agreed to adopt her. Although she knows Libby may not live long, she wanted to fill the dog’s remaining days with love. “There’s something in her eyes that begs for love and safety,” her new owner said, according to a Facebook post. “I couldn’t turn my back on that.” Libby, now renamed “Wiggles,” is enjoying her new home, playing with her canine brother and family, and taking plenty of cozy naps on the couch. “While we don’t know how much time she has left, we know she will spend her remaining days surrounded by love and comfort thanks to the kindness of our community,” the Humane Society wrote.
Thank you to everyone who rescued Libby and gave her a second chance! We hope she enjoys the time she has left in her new home! ❤️ Please share this story if you love dogs!
