Brownie Sheep's Skin Cancer Treatment

Just like people, animals can get skin cancer, and we've nursed a number of residents with this condition over the years. These cancers typically present as basal or squamous cell carcinoma, and can be treated, or at the least managed, with veterinary assistance. Brownie is one such patient, having undergone two procedures for skin cancer since his arrival in the Valley as a young lamb.  When tiny, Brownie was impacted by serious fly blowing which damaged over one third of the skin on his back. He came to the Sanctuary with extensive wounds, and his recovery was slow. While the wounds healed, sadly his thick woolly coat in those damaged areas never did, which then became hot spots for cancer growth.

Last year, two large cancers emerged on Brownie's back. These grew quickly, and a third surgery was imminent. Fortunately, for this third surgery, Dr Barney, a specialist equine surgeon from the Animal Hospital at Murdoch, was available. Dr Barney suggested laser surgery, something we had not previously tried. Given the extensive growth of the cancers we were keen to give it a try, and within a week, Brownie was fasting in anticipation for his procedure.  

The cancer removal went to plan, and within an hour, Brownie was in his recovery stall and enjoying a snack. We were able to visit Brownie the following day, and were so relieved to see him comfortable and bright. He loved the attention of clinic staff and students, and his dressing changes could be done without restraint thanks to his favourite brush, which we had packed with his belongings for his hospital stay. Brushing Brownie encouraged him to happily stand while his dressings and ointments were applied, making post-surgery treatment a breeze!  

Within a week, Brownie was able to come home to the Sanctuary for continuing care, and the vet team were very impressed with his rapid recovery. Brownie will always need ongoing skin checks. We are vigilant of cancerous growths on his skin and we are so appreciative of the medical expertise available to assist our farm friends!

 

Beatrix Sheep

 

Beatrix sheep arrived at Possum Valley during the autumn. She was only around six years old, but had been surrendered to the Sanctuary due to a case of progressed mastitis. We had never seen an udder in such bad shape, so her first stop was Murdoch Veterinary Hospital where she underwent over two weeks of intensive antibiotic treatment. Sadly Beatrix did not respond to any of the drugs used, and was released from the hospital with her issue unresolved. 

During the winter months, Beatrix was monitored and underwent regular vet checks for changes. In herself she was well, but her huge udder was certainly an impediment to running and playing with friend Sammy, and her daily checks and cleans were not welcomed. 

By the end of August, her udder was looking larger, and with warmer weather and increased fly risk imminent, the decision was made for Bea to have a full mastectomy. A sheep mastectomy is a serious procedure, and the removal of her 4.8kg udder took over eight hours by a specialist vet team. Beatrix is certainly a little fighter, and just hours after waking, was stomping her foot at clinic staff and eating her hay with enthusiasm. 

It's been several weeks now since Beatrix’s life saving surgery, and she is recovering well. She is receiving lots of TLC, and while her surgery site still has a long way to go, she is bright and keen to get back on her hooves!

If you are able to contribute to Beatrix’s ongoing health costs, donations can be made at www.givenow.com.au/possumvalley

Be sure to keep up to date with beautiful Bea’s recovery updates on Facebook!