Cancer Therapy Dog Diagnosed with Lymphoma

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NEW JERSEY – Inker is a therapy dog at Trinitas Hospital in Elizabeth, NJ. Since taking on that role two years ago, the nine-year-old golden retriever has visited nearly 900 patients suffering from cancer.

Owner Pat Dobson has been Inker's best friend since he was 18-months-old. Just over a month ago, Dobson noticed her pooch's lymphnodes felt swollen. A vet visit revealed the worst – Inker suffers from Canine Lymphoma – cancer.

Now Inker must be subjected to chemotherapy. The 20-minute sessions leave the dog feeling the same way a human feels – he suffers from the same side effects.

Yet Dobson says Inker remains happy. He's continued his work, meeting with cancer patients twice weekly. Now he wears a t-shirt that makes patients aware of the unique connection they have with this special dog. They are both dealing with cancer.

Inker will undergo 21 more treatments. His vet says things are going well so far. However, he may not have as much energy once he's further along with chemo. Until then, he'll keep cheering up his fellow cancer patients.

Overall, Canine Lymphoma is said to be common and treatable. Fifty percent of cases go into remission – and so far, Inker seems to be on that path.

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