In a remarkable tale of resilience and compassion, a twelve-and-a-half-year-old Indian cross-breed canine named ‘Badal’ has defied the odds of an advanced form of cancer, osteosarcoma, thanks to a life-saving surgery performed by Dr. Narendra Pardeshi and his team at the Small Animal Clinic in Pune.
Badal’s owner, Kanchan Khandke, a school principal from Dehradun with a history of caring for 21 rescued dogs, noticed his distress when he began limping and panting at the end of 2022. Despite receiving injections, Badal’s condition did not improve. Khandke, who had relocated from Rajasthan to Dehradun, sought local veterinary help. By October, Dr. Pardeshi and his team traveled to Dehradun to conduct thorough tests, confirming the presence of a tumor through a biopsy, CT scan, and FNAC test.
The diagnosis revealed an advanced stage of osteosarcoma, a fast-growing, aggressive bone cancer affecting Badal’s left leg. Dr. Pardeshi advised Khandke on the necessity of prompt action, emphasizing the need for amputation to improve Badal’s chances of successful treatment.
Opting for the challenging decision, Khandke embarked on a four-day journey from Dehradun to Pune in December, covering 35 hours of driving, to ensure Badal received the specialized care from Dr. Pardeshi. The amputation surgery for osteosarcoma took place on January 9, lasting two-and-a-half hours and proving successful without complications.
Remarkably, Badal was able to walk within 24 hours post-surgery, showcasing the adaptability of dogs to three-legged mobility. Dr. Pardeshi highlighted the importance of amputation in alleviating pain and improving the quality of life for dogs with osteosarcoma.
Khandke expressed immense joy witnessing Badal’s progress, emphasizing the hope and gratitude she feels each day. Dr. Pardeshi discussed the prevalence of cancer in dogs, noting its variability based on breed, age, and genetic factors. He highlighted that osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, can impact dogs, and its exact cause is not always clear.
Badal’s inspiring journey stands as a testament to the bond between humans and their canine companions, demonstrating the power of timely intervention, veterinary expertise, and the unwavering commitment of pet owners like Kanchan Khandke.
