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  1. #1
    House Broken Aerodogs's Avatar
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    The Dreaded 'C' Word

    A humble reminder that no dog is immune to cancer. After devoting almost twenty years to rescue dogs and fostering, Ryder, who is my heart and soul, was recently diagnosed with a Mast Cell Tumor on his penile sheath. He is a raw fed, minimally vaccinated, performance Labrador and yet we are still in the midst of a nightmare. It's proof that no matter what we feel is 'right' for our own dogs, life can throw a curveball. Some of you may remember me from the old board when I more regularly participated in conversation (previously Hailey's Mom) and some may not, but one thing Lab folks do well is support one another and more than anything, we can use some prayers, positive vibes, and well wishes!

    For the past two weeks, while supporting friends through their troubles, we have begun a fight of our own. I ALWAYS encouraged pet insurance, only to have life happen and not have coverage for my own dog in a time of great need. Andrea (previously GatorBlueEyes) graciously took it upon herself to create this GoFundMe page to help us in a huge way and I'm absolutely blown away! I have met the most AMAZING people through dogs and this board. This experience has been humbling and eye opening to say the least and I am so grateful for everyone who has rallied behind us. I have provided the GoFundMe link if you would like to donate or for those who would like to simply follow his progress. I'll try to keep this page updated as well.

    Help Ryder Rally Against Cancer!!!

    https://www.gofundme.com/ryders-rally-against-cancer

    Ryder
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    Update as of June 10:
    Dr. Hanson of East Coast Veterinary Surgery is the highly skilled surgeon chosen to oversee Ryder's care. We had our initial consult Wednesday 6/7 and I was asked to fast him in case the surgeon opted for same day surgery. However, due to the location and size of Ryder's tumor, we scheduled surgery for Wednesday 6/14 in hopes a weeks worth of steroids will decrease the size some and allow for better surgical margins. He will require at least one overnight stay so they can monitor vitals and better manage his pain. We won't know how much reconstruction of the prepuce area will be required until the surgeon removes the tumor and sees what healthy tissue remains. Various options have been discussed and we are hoping for the best possible outcome.

    As you may know, MCT's are Graded on a scale (1-3, 3 being most aggressive) and tier (low/high probability of metastasis). Based on location and presentation alone, it is highly unlikely we are dealing with a Grade 1 or benign mass. They just don't ever appear in that area. We are keeping positive though and hoping it's a Low Grade, Low Tier that will respond to treatment. We also have an Oncologist from the Cancer Care Clinic on his case with whom we will consult post-operatively.

    In the meantime, imaging specialist Dr. Mitchell completed an abdominal ultrasound to rule out metastasis which was CLEAR!!!


  2. #2
    Senior Dog POPTOP's Avatar
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    So sorry for all that is happening to Ryder and you. You know how powerful Lab Board Mojo is and I send along much along with prayers and gentle pats. Sending along support for you.

    I have heard of the penis being removed and an opening created similar to a female. Hope that is not the case here but if needs to be, it makes him no less the devoted, loving lab you know.

    Please keep us updated.
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  3. #3
    Senior Dog
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    What a blow...I'm so sorry this has happened to Ryder. It sounds like he's going to be getting the best possible care...and all good thoughts are on their way for an uneventful recovery!

  4. #4
    Senior Dog janedoe's Avatar
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    I am so sorry. We've had three dogs with cancer in the last seven months. Argos passed suddenly from hemangiosarcoma when the tumor burst. We didn't even know there was a problem. Nikki is starting chemo on Monday and Fran is clear for the moment and finishing up chemo in a month. I'm just grateful that, at their age, Nikki and Fran were in good enough shape to get through surgery virtually without any problems and the chemo barely affected Fran.

    All good thoughts for your Ryder. It's a rocky road so take care of yourself.

  5. #5
    Senior Dog Berna's Avatar
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    I am really sorry to hear that you and Ryder are going through this. Keeping my fingers crossed that he beats it and can resume his carrier in sports!
    Cookie Black Snowflake
    July 12th, 2006. - May 25th, 2023.

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  6. #6
    Senior Dog labsnewfy's Avatar
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    I am sorry to hear about Ryder, will keep you both in our thoughts and prayers.
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    rescued felines - AJ - 8/00 - 1/11, Merlin - 5/20/05-8/23/21
    Tucker - 8/3/10, Penny - 7/7/13, Toby - 6/14/21

  7. #7
    Senior Dog IRISHWISTLER's Avatar
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    Prayers and positive thoughts out to ye. Having been there meself, t'is not an easy road.

    Irishwhistler☘️
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  8. #8
    House Broken Aerodogs's Avatar
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    Update as of 6/14

    Thank you prayer warriors!!! Ryder is out of surgery and per Dr. Hanson it went better than expected. He was able to close the prepuce area with the existing tissue (no skin graft!) and get several good sections for biopsy. There was an area of thicker skin nearby he biopsied as well, just to be thorough, but we are praying it's just swelling of the tissue and not another MCT which would require a more radical surgery. We expect to have the pathology back in about ten days and will follow up with the Oncologist for a treatment plan. Ryder will have to stay overnight so they can closely monitor his vitals and manage his pain, but should be able to come home tomorrow.

    I know we have a long road ahead, but Ryder is a fighter and has so many amazing people in his corner. There are no words to express my sincere gratitude to everyone rallying behind us. Everyone has been simply amazing!

  9. #9
    Senior Dog
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    Great update...good pathology and uneventful recovery mojo headed your way.

  10. #10
    Senior Dog Sue-Ram's Avatar
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    Sending good thoughts for Ryder.

    I've posted a link below for a site that can help with your fundraiser if you qualify.

    The link does work despite the error message.
    403 - Forbidden Error
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    Ram - Adopted @ 6 y/o - 7/18/2011 - 7/4/2019
    CGN - 6/10/2013


 



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