So
was the Weimaraner delivered: with an incredibly large tumor on his
stomach. One can only crudely imagine how painful it must have been to
carry this foreign body around. He couldn’t even stand up on his own
anymore.
The
vets estimated that the he must have carried this tumor around inside
for more than a year. It’s unbelievable that he managed to survive with
this burden.
Since
Weimaraners are a very rare breed, the benevolent society “Tickled Pink
Weimaraner Rescue” took an interest in the dog. The organization
specializes i rescuing dogs of this breed.
Despite
the good intentions of the organization, the chances were not good for
the dog. The organization’s representative had two difficult decisions
to make: either to spare the animal from its suffering or to subject it
to a likely arduous and dangerous operation without knowing whether the
tumor was malignant. And who would cover the exorbitant costs?
They
decided to take the dog with them to a clinic and consulted several
doctors who, unfortunately, could not make the decision easier.
But
then something transpired that gave them crystal-clear clarity. After
an hourlong examination, the dog stood up and approached his rescuers.
In his eyes burned the unbridled will to live. The solution was clear:
he would be operated on! Luckily, his sad tale was able to mobilize
enough people so that donations covered the costs.
The
unbelievable: the tumor weighed 12 pounds and must have grown for an
eternity, for Gilbert Grape - as he was newly christened - found it hard
to walk without it. His body had obviously adjusted to the weight of
the tumor, leading to a malaligned hip.
But
nonetheless: Gilbert was happy. Finally, someone had helped him. And
with his powerful will, he will surely master his therapy. In the
meantime, he is able to gleefully roll around on his back for the first
time in what must be an eternity. These little signs of joy and wellness
are rewards for his helpers.
And
as it turns out, Gilbert is even luckier than anyone could have ever
epxected: Gilbert has been adopted and has found a new home! Thanks to
his rescuers and countless supporters, Gilbert is able to lead a happy
and healthy life.
And
again: valiant helpers are able to save the day when everything seems
hopeless. Unfortunately, this presents the inconvenient question: why
must poor animals suffer for so long before something happens?
