Stray dog with massive tumor gets second chance after urgent surgery

In the bustling streets of Mettupalayam, India, a heart-wrenching sight stopped a seasoned rescuer in their tracks — a stray dog with a massive, swollen growth consuming the top of his head, wandering the town alone. But behind the heartbreaking image was a soul just as massive — one that would soon touch the hearts of animal lovers across the globe.

Image Credit from YouTube video

In India, seeing a stray dog is nothing out of the ordinary, with tens of millions roaming the streets, alleys, and public spaces across the country. But when a dog named Biggie was spotted wandering alone, it was impossible to look away, especially for those with a soft spot for animals in need.

When rescuers first saw him navigating the streets of Mettupalayam, their hearts shattered. Biggie had a massive tumor overtaking the top of his head. Locals had seen him wandering aimlessly for some time, his head hanging low from the weight, his body worn down, and his spirit clearly fading.

But what unfolded next would become one of the most unforgettable animal rescue stories of the year. Biggie’s guardians came in the form of a compassionate veterinary team from Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), an organization based in the UK whose mission is to bring expert veterinary care to the world’s most vulnerable animals — no matter the distance or the difficulty.

For Biggie, they arrived just in time.

The team from WVS’s India center immediately sprang into action. Despite the grotesque size of the tumor and the suffering he endured, Biggie responded with love. He wagged his tail, leaned into the hands of those who cared for him, and never once lashed out in fear.

Veterinarians were shocked by what they saw. “We’d never seen anything like it,” said one of the staff. The mass on Biggie’s head weighed more than 4 pounds — an astonishing size, particularly for a dog his size. Yet somehow, he endured.

Initial treatment included fluids and pain relief, allowing Biggie some momentary comfort. X-rays followed, revealing that the tumor hadn’t yet penetrated his skull. It was a miraculous discovery that gave them hope — they had a chance to save him.

Image Credit from YouTube video

Just two days later, Biggie was brought into surgery. The operation was intense and challenging, as the tumor had wrapped itself tightly around a large section of his skull. The surgical team worked meticulously and carefully removed the mass, which weighed approximately 2 kilograms — over 10% of his entire body weight.

If left untreated, Biggie’s fate would have been sealed. The growth would have continued expanding, eventually causing irreversible damage or death. But thanks to the intervention of WVS, Biggie’s life took a new turn.

Even as he endured so much, Biggie’s gentle nature never waned. He showed affection to everyone around him, becoming a symbol of courage and trust. Dr. Shreya Bahl, one of the veterinarians who worked closely with him, shared her thoughts: “Biggie has been the most affectionate dog I have ever met. We are thrilled that he can now start a new life as a much happier and healthier dog.”

The recovery journey wasn’t over after the initial surgery. Biggie required two additional reconstructive surgeries to address the damage left behind and to aid his long-term healing. There were daily wound care routines, bandage changes, and physical support required. But through it all, Biggie remained calm and loving.

“He’s the star of our center,” Dr. Bahl added. “We’re spoiling him with lots of love and attention — just as he deserves.”

Today, Biggie is thriving at the WVS India center. He is stronger, more energetic, and finally able to hold his head up high — literally and figuratively. Each day he plays more, engages with his caretakers, and continues to heal. For the first time in a long while, his eyes are bright, his posture proud, and his future full of promise.

He’s currently living at the WVS center in Ooty, surrounded by compassionate staff, volunteers, and visiting animal lovers from around the world. They provide him with the attention and love he was so cruelly denied in his earlier life.

Biggie’s journey from a suffering stray to a beloved rescue is nothing short of extraordinary. Once a dog burdened by pain and ignored by the world, he’s now a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of compassion.

Image Credit from YouTube video

For anyone who’s ever wondered whether a single act of kindness can make a difference, Biggie stands as living proof. His survival wasn’t just about removing a tumor — it was about restoring dignity, health, and love to a life that had almost been forgotten.

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