Ron’s Journey: Surgery, Recovery & Ongoing Care

Ron is our sweet 15-year-old Cocker Spaniel who urgently needed surgery to remove a tumor in his ear. The mass was causing frequent bleeding and putting him at high risk for infection. He wore a cone for weeks to prevent further damage, but surgery became the only real solution to keep him safe and comfortable. 

 On April 17, Ron underwent the procedure. The vet discovered that the infection had spread deep into his ear canal. They were able to remove most of the infected tissue, but due to the severity, there’s still a chance Ron may need a full ear canal removal surgery in the future. A biopsy was also done during the operation, and we’re now anxiously waiting for the results, which should come back within a week. 

Since coming home, Ron has been in a lot of pain and has been crying during recovery. It’s been heartbreaking to see him like this. He’s currently on gabapentin, clavacillin, and carprofen to help manage the pain, infection, and inflammation. His next follow-up appointment is scheduled for May 2nd.  

Before the surgery, Ron also needed an echocardiogram to make sure his heart could handle anesthesia due to his age. His recent lab work showed elevated amylase levels (2032 U/L), which may indicate inflammation of the pancreas, and high white blood cell and neutrophil counts—likely from his body fighting the infection. The estimated cost for everything—surgery, echocardiogram, biopsy, medications, and follow-up care is around $3,100. 

We’ve been doing everything we can to cover it, but we still need help. 

Depending on what the biopsy shows and how Ron recovers, he may need more treatment ahead. Ron means the world to us. We just want him to heal and enjoy more happy days ahead, resting peacefully and surrounded by love. Any support whether through donations or sharing his story — truly means so much. Thank you for helping us care for Ron.