A rescue dog in upstate New York has got the happy ending animal lovers dream about — she beat cancer and found a forever home with the person who cared for her throughout treatment.
Officially cancer-free, Marley — a 5-year-old Labrador who was once living as a stray — has been adopted by the caregiver who helped her through recovery.
What happened?
In a Facebook update from the Fulton County Regional SPCA in Gloversville, as WNYT reported, the shelter said Marley's pathology results found no remaining cancer cells, meaning she does not need chemotherapy.
The community had already been following Marley's case. In May, the shelter was looking for a permanent home for her after she was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, which WNYT described as an aggressive form of cancer.
That diagnosis came only after Marley had already been through a difficult rescue. WNYT said she had been living as a stray when she was taken in following a fight with a porcupine, and veterinarians found cancer in her mouth while removing quills from her teeth.
Marley's new home is with the person who had been providing her hospice care, the shelter said.
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Why does it matter?
Her case brought together rescuers, veterinary specialists, donors, and supporters who helped make lifesaving care possible.
Serious illnesses can make shelter animals harder to place for adoption. Marley received treatment, foster care, and time to heal before being adopted.
The SPCA said donations raised for Marley fully covered her procedure and could also pay for much of another dog's medical treatment.
What's being done?
This pup's recovery was made possible with critical veterinary, surgical, and oncology care, while foster care gave her a stable place to heal and feel safe.
According to WNYT, the SPCA also thanked the people who donated, helped spread Marley's story, and backed her care.
If you want more ideas for getting involved to help furry friends and similar causes close to home, check out the TCD Guide's page on taking local action.
"She will need continued monitoring over the next two years to make sure there is no regrowth," the shelter said. "After those two years, for all intents and purposes, she will be considered cleared from oncology."
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