Pippa's Bucket List
10-year-old Pippa's story began like many others in our shelter: she arrived at BARCS through no fault of her own after her owner could no longer care for her. She was a happy, spunky gal who loved spending time outside and munching on treats.
During her intake examination, our skilled and caring veterinary staff noted that Pippa had several mammary masses. During her spay surgery, our team removed two masses and sent them to a laboratory for a more thorough examination. While we waited for the results, Pippa went into foster care with Kailynn, a BARCS volunteer who became interested in fostering. It didn't take long for Pippa to win Kailynn's heart. Though her initial plan was for Pippa to be a temporary resident before she would be adopted, she received news that changed everything.
A biopsy of Pippa's mammary mass indicated that she had developed stage three malignant cancer. Given the severity of her condition, it was likely that Pippa only had six months to live.
Kailynn didn't hesitate: she knew that Pippa was already right where she belonged. After several weeks of fostering her, Kailynn made the decision to officially adopt Pippa.
Today, seven months after her diagnosis, Pippa is doing well. She loves to spend time with Kailynn and her doggy friends. She's receiving chemotherapy and has been hard at work on her bucket list, a special project that Kailynn put together to make sure every day Pippa has left is better than the last.
Pippa's bucket list has made her quite the local celebrity and gained her more friends than anyone would have imagined for a once-overlooked shelter dog. Kailynn and Pippa have been using the project as a way to raise awareness and give back to animals in need, ensuring that more seniors get a second chance as beautiful as Pippa's.
Kailynn tells us, "Pippa is now my little best friend. I look forward to coming home from work to be greeted by a wagging tail and a happy prance across our house. Cancer has not stopped her. She is living life to the fullest and is always up for a new adventure. She has taught me more about resilience and bravery than I could have ever imagined."
This is exactly why senior lives are worth saving.
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