Gilbert Grape’s story was shared with DogHeirs by Keri Pink, a media relations volunteer with Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue (TPWR). The tale highlights the incredible journey of this stray dog as he was saved and began his path to recovery.
On one particularly hot summer day in Arizona, where temperatures soared above 95 degrees, animal control officers found a male Weimaraner roaming the streets. He was burdened with a massive, diseased tumor so large he couldn’t stand or move.
The officers brought him to the county’s high-kill shelter, placing him in the isolation section where dogs with diseases or aggressive behavior often faced grim prospects.
In such shelters, stray animals are held for 72 hours to allow time for owners to reclaim them, but there is an exception. A program lets pre-approved rescues take in animals who receive medical clearance.
Two dedicated volunteers alerted Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue about the dog, and the team quickly sprang into action.
They named him Gilbert Grape due to the grape-like tumor hanging from his chest. Gilbert was taken to a 24-hour specialty veterinary center.
There, it was determined that he needed blood transfusions and stabilization through intravenous catheters before undergoing surgery to remove the tumor—a procedure crucial for saving his life.
The anticipated cost of diagnosis, stabilization, and surgery was about $7,000. For the rescue volunteers and veterinary staff, saving Gilbert was an easy decision.
Yet, rescues operate on a thin line where they rely heavily on public support, unlike private pet owners who typically make such decisions themselves.
Seeing a sparkle in Gilbert’s eyes, the team was determined to give him a chance. They sought advice from various veterinarians to make the best decision for Gilbert’s future.
To garner support, they launched a campaign and shared his story with their Facebook followers, leading to an influx of donations.
The surgery went smoothly, and Gilbert made a quick recovery in the intensive care unit. Just two days post-operation, he was released from the hospital and was thriving.
A week after his surgery, results came back showing his 12-pound tumor was a benign lipoma, meaning Gilbert was cancer-free.
Although his recovery was positive, the tumor had taken a toll on his body. Vets noted he had lost significant muscle mass and walked awkwardly due to prolonged compensatory strain while carrying the tumor.
Gilbert is set to start a physical therapy regimen including manipulations, massages, and water treatments soon. Even though he remains physically weak, his playful and charming personality shines brighter each day with his foster family.
Gilbert’s story resonated with many, leading to an increase in adoption applications. Although he was not immediately ready for adoption, his future looked promising.
A year after his rescue, Gilbert found a loving and committed family, where he thrived despite his hip dysplasia diagnosis. His new family even provided a pool for regular water therapy, which significantly aided his well-being.
Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue continues its fantastic work, rescuing dogs with specialized needs, those that are terminally ill, and others like Gilbert who need urgent help.
More information about the rescue’s ongoing efforts and available dogs for adoption can be found on their website and Facebook page.
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