This week’s segment features Lula the 12-year-old chihuahua!!! Lula came to us for a swollen toe on her back leg that was persisting and not improving with medications. After several weeks of medical management and a needle biopsy, it was elected to amputate Lula’s toe. Once the biopsy results returned, it was determined that Lula had melanoma in her toe. A swollen toe or a broken toenail may not seem like an emergency, but sometimes these seemingly minor problems can be signs of something much more serious.
Melanoma is one of the most common malignant tumors affecting the toes and nail beds of dogs, and it can easily be mistaken for an infection or injured nail. If your dog has persistent swelling, bleeding, pain, a loose nail, or a toe that just doesn’t seem to heal, it’s important to have it evaluated as soon as possible.
In this video, we discuss the warning signs of digital melanoma, how it’s diagnosed, and why early intervention can make a significant difference in treatment options and prognosis. After a successful toe amputation, Lula is on the road to recovery!!