How Woody Beat the Odds: A Rare Skull Tumor and a Life-Saving Surgery

Woody, a lively 6-year-old dog with endless energy and love for life, almost didn’t make it. What began as small, almost unnoticeable changes turned into a serious, life-threatening condition.

The First Signs

In late summer 2025, Woody’s family noticed subtle changes: he stumbled on stairs, hesitated before jumping, and occasionally lost his balance. At first, they thought it was minor—just clumsiness or a small injury. But over the next few months, the changes became impossible to ignore.

By November, Woody was brought in for a neurological evaluation. That’s when doctors discovered a large, firm mass on his skull pressing against his brain. Testing confirmed it was a rare multilobular osteochondrosarcoma (MLO)—a slow-growing tumor that forms on the skull and, if left untreated, can dangerously compress the brain. For Woody’s family, it was devastating news: the playful, joyful dog who had always filled their home with life was suddenly facing a fight for his life.

The Surgery That Saved His Life

On December 8, Woody underwent a highly complex procedure. Our neurosurgery team performed a craniotomy, carefully removing the portion of the skull that held the tumor. They then completed a cranioplasty, reconstructing the skull with titanium mesh to protect his brain and restore its shape.

After surgery, Woody received 24/7 care: fluids, plasma transfusions, pain relief, anti-nausea medications, and constant monitoring. He had some mild neurological changes, which were expected, but his determination and spirit shone through every day.

Just three days after surgery, Woody was walking, eating, and alert enough to go home. By early January, he was back to walking a mile a day, playing with his canine brother, and barking at squirrels with the same joy he had always shown. The tumor was low-grade and slow-growing, offering hope for many happy months—and likely years—ahead.

More Than Survival

Woody’s story isn’t just about overcoming a rare tumor. It’s about courage, the bond between a dog and their family, and the incredible care of a dedicated veterinary team.

Sometimes, the biggest miracles are quiet—a dog taking a long walk, playing with his brother, and returning to the family who never gave up on him.