“Pit Bull with a Volleyball-Sized Tumor Overcomes Incredible Odds to Find a Forever Home”
Last Modified: April 3, 2025 by Sylvia Silverstone | This post may contain affiliate links for products we love and suggest. The views expressed in the article are solely the author’s opinions.
When 5-year-old Libby, a sweet pit bull, walked through the doors of The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, it was impossible to ignore both her kind heart and the enormous tumor on her front leg. The mass, roughly the size of a volleyball, was the largest the shelter had ever encountered.
Despite her painful condition, Libby’s gentle nature won the hearts of the shelter staff immediately. A spokesperson from the shelter recalled, “When we first saw Libby, her sweet face and kind eyes stood out. But right after, the massive volleyball-sized tumor on her shoulder was impossible to miss.”
After a thorough examination, the diagnosis was grim. Libby was suffering from an aggressive form of bone cancer. The tumor had spread to the bone in her upper right leg, causing severe inflammation and swelling, leaving her almost immobile and in constant pain.
The only option for survival was a difficult decision: amputation. But the shelter knew this was her best shot at a life free from pain.
With support from generous community donors, the shelter was able to raise the funds for Libby’s surgery. The skilled medical team at Blue Pearl Veterinary Partners performed the operation, successfully removing the 10-pound mass along with her right leg. This procedure gave Libby a fresh start and a second chance at life.
“Even during recovery, her loving spirit never wavered,” the shelter said. Libby’s resilience and unwavering kindness proved she was a true fighter.
A FOREVER HOME FILLED WITH LOVE
As Libby healed, one of the veterinary technicians who had cared for her was so touched by her strength and sweet disposition that they decided to adopt her. Even after learning that Libby’s cancer was aggressive and her time might be limited, the vet tech knew they couldn’t let her go.
Libby’s journey from pain and uncertainty to love and security is a true testament to the power of compassion and second chances.