This is Dixie — our sweet Border Collie girl who loves to give hugs and chase her cat brother. Earlier this year, she was diagnosed with cancer. We noticed a growth on her lip and brought her to the oncologists at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. It was diagnosed as a mast cell tumor shortly before COVID-19 shutdowns were put in place. We had to wait almost two months before further testing could be done, and the cancer had metastasized to her lymph nodes. 


Because the tumor is on her face, surgery to remove it is very difficult. They cannot remove the entire tumor so she will also require chemotherapy and radiation. If she can get this treatment, her prognosis goes from months to years. The cancer has not metastasized to her liver — but will soon without any intervention.

We adopted Dixie from Companion Animal Alliance just after moving into our first home. She was a shy girl but quietly cuddled up to us immediately upon meeting her. She has been a velcro dog ever since and is happy to lay by our sides for hours. She is an extremely loving companion and everyone who meets her falls in love. 

The estimate for the surgery and further therapies is up to $10,000. We are able to cover some of the costs but cannot realistically afford the entire bill. Anything you can donate will go directly to her treatment and care, and will be forever appreciated.