Just like people get cancer, dogs can too. Early detection can help your dog’s chances of survival. Meet Teddy, and listen to her story and then follow our tips to check your dog for any changes in his body that might indicate cancer. By so doing, you may save its life.
There was something in Teddy’s eyes, something intangible, but Donna Didonato, the Dalmatian’s owner, knew there was something wrong. There was a tiny bump on Teddy’s leg. Donna, worried about the combination of symptoms, shuttled Teddy to several veterinarians who dismissed her concerns and said the 6 year-old-dog was fine. Sure there was something wrong she persevered, and this gut instinct paid off by saving Teddy’s life.
“Early decision is important,’ says Didonato. Teddy was finally diagnosed with a nerve sheath tumor, a cancer that caused her to lose her right front leg. But Teddy is getting along just fine. ‘She’s so frisky,’ says Donna. Teddy had to go through rehabilitation and learn to walk again.
‘These days are all about ‘Teddytime,’ Didonato says. The long walks in the park have been replaced with long drives around the city, and long, luxurious baths. ‘Bathing your animal is the best way to get to know your pet’s body, so that you can immediately detect any changes,’ and of course, ‘Teddy loves it.’
Neighbors in Donna’s apartment building rallied around Teddy when she had her surgery, sitting outside and just spending time with her. A doorman from a neighboring building would have a handful of treats each morning to encourage Teddy towards recovery.
Didonato started baking treats herself to thank all of her dog-loving neighbors for their kindness. Not long after, she turned it into a business she called Teddy’s Dog Treats, where Teddy serves as CEO – Chief Eating Officer. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the treats is donated to the American Cancer Society’s Annual Dog Walk.
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