Update on Nina

We have learned that Nina was found living in an old car on the property from which she was confiscated. The people who “owned” her were suffering from severe drug addiction, and this was no doubt at the root of the terrible neglect she endured. We have also learned from her radiographs that she was shot in her left shoulder some time ago. There is no denying that Nina has suffered greatly in her 8 years of life, and we want to do everything we can to change that.

On a positive note, we have eliminated the fever that she arrived with and she is now eating with vigor, unlike when she first came to us. In addition, an initial ultrasound of the mass did not reveal any fluid pockets, which would indicate abscesses within the tumor and further medical complications. Also, her first round of radiographs shows that there is no complication from a hernia, which would have meant that her intestines were part of the mass. We are relieved that these concerns have been ruled out, and we will take every small victory we can get.

Unfortunately, repeat blood work shows her white blood cell count remaining 5x higher than normal, indicating that she is battling cancer.

Nina is continuing her medication regimen of painkillers, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics, and she is receiving extra fluids as needed. Over Thanksgiving, we sent her to a 24-hour clinic so that she would still be closely watched while our veterinary staff was taking a much needed holiday.

Nina has been seen by a total of six veterinarians, and they all agree that, if the tumor does prove to be operable, she will have to be in better overall condition in order to survive the surgery itself. The mass is completely vascularized, and it is close to half her bodyweight. Her emaciated condition makes immediate surgery a dangerous and reckless proposition.

That said, she is improving quickly! She is eating and drinking well, and her spirits are much improved. She is alert, eager to go on short walks, and she has completely won the hearts of our staff. (They can even be found after their shift is over just hanging out with her.)

On Monday, she is meeting with a surgical specialist and being scheduled for a CT scan. The CT scan will allow us to determine exactly what the tumor is anchored to within her abdominal cavity and if any internal organs or portions of her intestines are at risk.

In the meantime, we are getting her bodyweight up, keeping her as comfortable and happy as possible, and hoping that the next round of tests gives us good news. The future here is uncertain with the exception of one thing -- she will be loved.

Thank you for all your support of Nina. We will keep you posted.