A brave Weimaraner, given the pseudonym Gilbert Grape, faced a monstrous 12-pound tumor that left rescuers and onlookers in awe. Responding to a report about a Weimaraner on death row at a high-kill shelter, rescuers discovered Gilbert Grape with a massive tumor on his underbelly, barely able to stand.

The shelter’s protocol for strays allowed a 72-hour holding period without screening for potential rescue, but the county had a program allowing pre-approved rescues to accept animals under medical clearance. Tickled Pink Weimaraner Rescue (TPWR) was informed, and they swiftly intervened.

Nicknamed Gilbert Grape due to the gigantic grape-shaped tumor hanging from his chest, he was transported to a veterinary facility. A life-saving surgery to remove the tumor was deemed necessary, requiring blood transfusions and intravenous catheter stabilization.

The cost of diagnosis, stabilization, and surgery amounted to approximately $7,000. The decision to spare Gilbert’s life was an easy one for rescue volunteers and veterinary personnel.

However, the rescue faced a delicate balance between providing life-saving treatment and recognizing the limits of what a rescue dog should endure.

Gilbert’s health history and exact age were unclear, but his blood testing showed normal results, aside from a high white blood cell count due to the infected tumor. Estimated to be around seven years old, Gilbert’s eyes sparkled with life, prompting the decision to give him a chance.

To cover the significant costs, a campaign was launched, garnering support from social media followers. Gilbert underwent a straightforward surgery and a quick recovery in the ICU, being released two days later.

A week after surgery, the pathology report on the 12-pound tumor revealed it to be nothing more than a benign lipoma. Gilbert had been cancer-free for a long time.

At a re-check, staples from surgery were removed, and he received a clean bill of health. However, Gilbert endured muscle loss and physical strain due to the compensatory effects of carrying the tumor for an extended period.

Physical therapy, involving manipulations, massages, and water treatment, was planned to address these issues.

While physically fragile, Gilbert’s charming and funny nature shone through more with each passing day. His story reached many, and adoption applications were likely approved. Though not quite ready for adoption, Gilbert Grape has a bright future ahead.

A year after his rescue, Gilbert had been adopted into a loving and dedicated family. Despite a hip dysplasia diagnosis, he thrived in his new home, enjoying regular water treatment in the family’s pool and getting along brilliantly with his adoptive family.