The Tiger who came to play

There was a Tiger in our midst yesterday!  She wasn’t orange nor stripey. In fact, she wore pink!!!!But we knew she’s Tiger because her collar said so!

Tiger ran with new friends – she liked Lucca a lot
And there’s gentle Charlie  And she checked out others as well She did her doodle dash – being chased by Georgie!Oh, yes, let’s not forget the treats.She too was curious about the other doodles and followed them around.We’re glad you came to play, Tiger.

We know that Tiger is terminally ill and her human sister and mummy and daddy want her to have the best time possible!  We have much to do still, Tiger and we’ll show you a good time.

May’s comment:  Tiger had been diagnosed with inoperable spindle cell carcinoma, a type of cancer.  This malignant tumour, usually originate from the connective tissue of, or beneath, the skin that line or cover internal organs.  This lump usually occurs in the limbs of older dogs. In such cases it can be removed, but occasionally more radical surgery such as amputation is required. Sometimes an aggressive form of fibrosarcoma is reported in dogs less than one year of age.  Tiger is two and a half.

In Tiger’s case, it is in her rib cage, and even though the tumour could be removed by taking out five of her ribs (six ribs being the max), it would mean a long period of radiotherapy with potential side effects.  And so far radiotherapy had disappointing results. Surgery would prolong her life for a short while longer.  But what sort of life would she have?

Her family had decided to let her enjoy living as long as she’s not in pain.  And instead of weeping tears of sadness, her family decided to put together a bucket list of things to do. And we’re so glad that Tiger came to play with other doodles today – she looked well and as happy as can be. And we hope they will all come again in December!