Animal shelters do incredible work by offering pets a second chance at life. Some animals arrive in terrible condition, but shelters still give them the love and care they need.
That was the case for a pitbull named Libby, who arrived at the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County (HSTPC) in Washington in August 2023. According to staff, Libby was “full of life” and had “a sweet face and gentle eyes.” However, she was suffering from a massive tumor weighing 4 kilograms—almost the size of a volleyball—on her right front leg, one of the largest they had ever seen.
Libby arrived during a busy period at the shelter: HSTPC said she was just one of three emergency cases received within 48 hours, and as the largest shelter in Washington, dozens of new animals came in every day. Still, the team was determined to give Libby the best possible care, even though her future was uncertain.
“She deserves the most loving care possible, but we don’t know yet what her outcome will be,” the shelter wrote. “Our team of veterinarians is looking at all options and starting a series of tests to find out what kind of tumor Libby has. For now, she’s getting painkillers to ease her discomfort and endless love from our staff.”
After taking an X-ray, the vets discovered the tumor was in the bone of her upper right leg and that amputation was necessary. Due to reactive inflammation, the tumor had swollen to an abnormal size and was causing Libby terrible pain.
Thanks to generous donors, the shelter was able to afford the surgery for Libby’s leg. The operation, done by vets at BluePearl Pet Hospital, was a success, and Libby was finally free from the pain she had endured for so long.
Sadly, although the tumor was gone, the vets diagnosed Libby with aggressive bone cancer, meaning her time on earth might be limited. But there was good news: Libby found a home!
According to HSTPC, one of the veterinary assistants fell in love with Libby and decided to adopt her. Even though she knows Libby may not have long to live, she wanted to fill her final days with love.
“There is something in her eyes that begs for love and safety,” her new mom said via a Facebook post. “I couldn’t ignore that.”
Libby is now called “Wiggles” and is enjoying her new home, playing with her canine brother, her loving family, and napping happily on the couch.
“Although we don’t know how much time she has left, we know her final days will be surrounded by love and comfort thanks to the kindness of our community,” wrote The Humane Society.
Thank you to everyone who helped save Libby and gave her a second chance! We hope she enjoys every moment in her new home! ❤️
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