Snoopy’s First Surgery

“People love dogs. You could never go wrong adding a dog to the story”

– Jim Butcher

Snoopy was evaluated at Yonkers Animal Specialty Center and received a prognosis of fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy. FCE in dogs is also known as a spinal cord stroke in which it causes the dog to loss their ability to stand or walk. For Snoopy, it took away his ability to walk properly and he would often lose his balance. The causes were unknown; however, our worries were through the roof. When you hear devasting news like that, you automatically think worst-case scenario. Fortunately, the stroke he suffered did not trigger any other health concerns.

Hydrotherapy was recommended for Snoopy to help gain strength in his back left hind and overall improve his walking. Snoopy was receptive to the hydrotherapy. In 2018, Snoopy was taken again to Yonkers Animal Specialty Center due to concerns over his left front paw.

I remember being in the waiting room with my brother and Snoopy, waiting for the vet to come in with Snoopy’s results. We were informed that Snoopy had developed cancer in his left front paw (thumb area) and developed a mast cell tumor on his tail. Hearing the word cancer, was the worst ever, no one ever wants to hear those words whether with humans or loving animals. Of course, the first question we asked, “what can be done?” The requirement for Snoopy was surgery, specifically an amputation of his left front ‘2nd digital pad’ in order to prevent the cancer from spreading. The mast cell tumor on his tail was also removed. We wanted the best for him and his well-being; therefore, we proceeded with the decision. My family and I had concerns as Snoopy never did well with general anesthesia, he always experienced negative side effects.

Post-surgery, Snoopy had made a full recovery. Throughout the years, he had minor medical concerns and minor procedures such as removing excess in his ear due to a mosquito bite. After snoopy’s amputation of his left front digital, he only had 3 left instead of 4 due to the surgery - which is represented by our Pawsitive Care Snoopy logo.

One thing you guys must know about Snoopy is that was always a strong soul. He never gave up and no matter what, he always pushed through. Snoopy never allowed any medical situation to interfere with his mood, he always showed love and of course always loved to snuggle. Snoopy did not only enjoy spending time with us but he loved to be around his sister Princess.