Indie’s Journey: From Mast Cell Tumour Diagnosis to Remission
In April 2025 Indie’s family noticed a small lump on her lip. At first they thought it might be an insect sting, but when it didn’t change after antihistamines they sought veterinary advice from their local practice, The Vet Whitehaven. Their vet, University of Liverpool graduate Iina Väänänen, performed further investigations and the results confirmed their worst fear — Indie, their young Labrador, had a mast cell tumour. She was referred to the Oncology team at the University of Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital (SATH) for specialist care.
Surgery and Recovery
On 30th April Indie was admitted under the care of Dr Prue Neath, part of our Soft Tissue Surgery team, and underwent significant surgery to remove the tumour with 2cm margins as well as removal of a lymph node (mandible lymphadenectomy) due to metastasis (spread of the tumour to the lymph node). This meant removing around 5.5cm of tissue from the side of her face followed by a lip flap advancement.
Indie returned home a few days later to begin her recovery. Her owners recall the shock of seeing her so swollen after surgery, but with dedicated aftercare including hand-fed meals and plenty of rest she began to heal remarkably well.
Chemotherapy
Two weeks later Indie started chemotherapy on a 12-week vinblastine–prednisone protocol. While the first treatment caused some tummy upsets and occasional dips in blood counts, Indie soon found her rhythm and breezed through the rest of her chemotherapy with her tail wagging.
Her owners say:
“Apart from the bald patches and the occasional tummy upset, you wouldn’t have known she was having chemo. Indie is now in remission and living her best life to the full.”
A Team Effort
Throughout her treatment, Indie quickly became a favourite with our staff — she was always excited to come into the hospital, and never missed an opportunity to check the chemo room treat jar. Her journey has been supported every step of the way by her devoted family, her local veterinary team at The Vet Whitehaven, and the specialists here at SATH.
Living Life to the Full
Today, Indie is in remission and enjoying life to the full. Her story is a testament to her bravery, the love of her family, and the importance of veterinary teamwork. We are proud to have been part of Indie’s journey and wish her many happy, healthy years ahead.