Post Surgery Check-Up And New Diagnosis

Pathology Reports

November 8, 2022

Now that the pathology report from both the chest masses as well as the jaw sample has returned, we have a new diagnosis, but still much to be thankful for!

• Chest masses
  • pathology result: follicular cysts
    • Follicular cysts are large bumps, or nodules, on a dog’s skin that originate in the hair follicle. The hair follicle becomes dilated and fills with a dark brown substance that looks similar to a blackhead. These cysts are prone to becoming infected. Lager’s follicular cysts should not grow back now that they have been removed.
• Oral Mass
  • The mass originally deemed Oral Papillary Squamous Cell Carcinoma was reevaluated as Canine Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma (CAA)
    • The tumor diagnosis can sometimes change as a better sample is acquired during the removal of the “heart” of the mass. This type of tumor has “layers” and the superficial part of the mass is made up of similar squamous-type cells which often produces an inaccurate diagnosis. During Lager’s first surgery, only the superficial part of the mass could be removed and sampled.
    • About Canine Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma (CAA)
      • Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma is a locally aggressive tumor that originates from the epithelial cells of the dog’s jaw.  Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma forms a large red mass on the gums. Beneath the visible portion of the mass, there is usually considerable bone destruction. These tumors have not been documented to spread to other areas of the body. As Lager’s tumor was removed with clean margins, it is not expected that there should be any recurrence. Without treatment, this type of tumor will continue to grow and destroy the jaw bone, becoming life-threatening for the dog.

Post Surgery Oral Exam and Check-Up

November 11, 2022: BluePearl Pet Hospital

Dr. Jennings said that Lager looks great! Dr. Jennings is pleased with the surgery site and healing process. Any remaining oral sutures will fall out and/or dissolve on their own over the coming few weeks. During today’s appointment Dr. Jennings answered all of my questions in detail. The following was covered in today’s appointment:

• We have observed some teeth chattering. Dr. Jennings said this should subside as the mouth continues to heal
• Lager may begin return to a normal diet. Over the next week, we will work on transitioning from wet food meatballs to soaked kibble to regular kibble as we monitor Lager’s progress in re-learning how to eat on his own.
• We can begin brushing Lager’s teeth immediately. Dr. Jennings also recommended that we continue to use products to help reduce plaque and tartar. We currently use a water additive called Vetradent, which is included in products that have earned the VOHC Accepted Seal , so we will continue to use this.
• Lager is cleared to compete in dock diving once we start up again in the Spring, and is cleared to train and condition throughout the fall and winter once his jaw and chest is completely healed!
• As long as no issues arise, Lager does not need to have further follow-up visits with Dr. Jennings. Dr. Jennings recommends that we have Dr. Campbell monitor Lager’s oral health at his regular check-ups. If we happen to notice any bad breath or dental buildup/inflammation of the gums, Dr. Jennings instructed me to have Lager evaluated by Dr. Campbell or himself.
• Lager can begin to have soft toys within the next week. We experimented today during the appointment with an Extreme Vertical/Speed Retrieve bumper. Upon sight of the bumper, Lager grabbed it up! After dropping the bumper on the floor, in less than 30 seconds Lager had learned to pick it up on his own! He is truly amazing and an inspiration! There was some minimal dilute blood on the bumper which Dr. Jennings said was normal at this point. In about 5-7 days when Lager is closer to being completely healed, we will try giving him some soft stuffie toys.

Dr. Michael Jennings and his nurse, Ashley McCullough, provided outstanding care and surgical excellence for Lager. Confidence in a medical team and their abilities was imperative to us.  Beyond the medical aspect, Dr. Jennings and Ashley displayed such care and compassion not only for Lager, but also for me as I broke down in tears (at every single appointment)! They not only patiently answered my notebook full (literally) of questions, but also took the time to explain everything in detail. I will never forget the personal touch and willingness they spent making sure I felt comfortable with all of the information being presented to me, and comforting me during a terrifying time to ensure me that Lager was going to pull through this procedure just fine. Dr. Jennings and Ashley’s love and passion for animals is remarkable, and shines bright for all to see. We are blessed to have been lucky enough for Lager to have this the dedicated, thoughtful, and compassionate surgical team.   

Chest Suture Removal

November 11, 2022

The Surgical staff at Blue Pearl was also wonderful! Their attention to detail on Lager’s chest surgery and kindness towards me was beyond appreciated. Today Michael Pawenski evaluated Lager’s chest incisions. After removal of Lager’s cross-your-heart bandage, Dr. Pawenski noted that the incision is healing well, but there are two small areas of dehiscence and a small amount of discharge that may be due to an early surgical site infection. As a result, the sutures cannot be removed, and Lager will be required to take antibiotics. This also means that his activity restrictions will still need to be in place. The bandage was not reapplied but Lager will have to wear a tee-shirt or Suitical Recovery Suit to prevent rubbing or scratching of the incision. Lager will return to Blue Pearl on Thursday November 17th for an exam with the Surgical Team, and and hopefully suture removal.

We Don’t Know Them All, But We Owe Them All

Lager’s check-up fell on Veterans Day 2022. Blue Pearl Hospital is located on Veterans Highway with a Veterans Memorial 0.2 mile down the road from the hospital parking lot exit. with Lager being a Veteran himself, I knew we had to stop at the memorial. It was raining pretty steadily, but we stopped anyway, and I’m so glad we did. Lager got a break from his cone and was able to take a small, slow walk around the beautiful memorial.

With respect, honor, and gratitude, Cello’s Corner would like to thank all who have served and continue to serve our country. Your bravery and the sacrifices you have made to protect our freedom will never be forgotten. Thank you to all veterans – you are our heroes! 

Things That Make You Go MMM…

…A vanilla McDonalds milkshake! Lager had a few licks of the milkshake as a treat on his way home.

Keep on Keepin’ On

Over the next week, we will continue Lager’s restricted routine while working on transitioning his diet back to his regular kibble. I will post another update after Lager’s appointment on November 17th. Thank you ALL for your continued prayers, positive thoughts and good vibes for Lager and for your support for Lager’s PAWrents!