Save Ark
Ark was diagnosed with a large thymoma, a tumor in his chest that’s pressing on his heart and airways, making it very difficult for him to breathe.
Ark
- Ark Hajdinski
- Slovenia (EU)
- November 29th
- 5 years old
Ark is our beloved 5-year-old German Shepherd, and he is truly a member of our family. His best friend is our little girl, Inaya, who is almost a year and a half old. The two are inseparable, with Ark always watching over her, protecting her, and keeping her company. He has always been healthy, happy, and full of energy, bringing joy to our lives every day.
About the Disease
Three weeks ago his health suddenly took a turn for the worse. Ark began having difficulty breathing and lost the vibrant energy that he always had. During his first examination at the vet, we were devastated to learn that the doctors couldn’t hear his heart, indicating that something massive was blocking the sound. An ultrasound confirmed our worst fears: a huge mass was found in his chest, completely obscuring his heart and other organs.
After further tests and a CT scan, it was determined that Ark has a large tumor in his chest, measuring 23.5 x 18.5 x 14.5 cm (9.25 x 7.28 x 5.71 inches). This tumor, known as a thymoma, is pressing on his heart and airways, causing him immense discomfort. While under anesthesia during the CT scan, tissue samples were taken, and a cytological exam confirmed that the tumor is indeed a thymoma, which can be surgically removed.
But not yet!
The surgeon is very optimistic about the operation, as such tumors are successfully removed in 90% of cases. In our case, the surgery is somewhat riskier due to the tumor’s size, but the success rate is still estimated at 85%. Despite the good odds, there is a risk that part of the tumor may remain due to its invasive growth near the heart’s blood vessels, which could mean further treatment with chemotherapy.
Are You Able To Help?
As a family, we cannot bear to let Ark suffer from this illness, especially with such hopeful chances of recovery. Unfortunately, the treatment comes with significant financial costs that we, as a young family, can hardly afford. Therefore, we have decided to reach out to you, kind people, for help.
Every contribution, no matter the size, will be a tremendous help to us. If we raise more funds than needed for Ark’s treatment, we will donate the remaining amount to a charitable organization that helps abandoned animals. We will share all the details transparently.
The expected costs are as follows:
- Initial vet visit, X-rays, blood tests, urine tests: €260
- CT scan, cytological tissue tests, IV, blood tests: €840
- Cost of the surgery to remove the tumor: €4.500
- Estimated cost of chemotherapy: €4.000+
- Post-treatment: still unknown…
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Phone number:
041 65 42 65
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Slovenian bank
Intesa Sanpaolo Bank
IBAN: SI56 1010 0006 0689 694
BIC: BAKOSI2X
Jure Topolak
Vizore 13a
3203 Nova Cerkev
Slovenia
Scan QR code and donate (SEPA):
Deutsche bank
N26 Bank AG, Berlin
IBAN: DE21 1001 1001 2624 2788 55
BIC: NTSBDEB1XXX
Jure Topolak
Vizore 13a
3203 Nova Cerkev
Slovenia
MoneyBeam:
Course of Treatment
First local vet visit
During the initial examination, several diagnostic tests were performed to assess Arko’s health. The ultrasound and X-ray images provided a basic view of the chest, raising concerns about significant fluid accumulation or the presence of a mass.
A urine analysis was conducted, checking 14 parameters, and a hematological analysis with a differential blood count was also performed, along with a comprehensive diagnostic profile.
Total costs: 259,13€
CT scan in Ljubljana
During the examination, a pre-anesthetic evaluation and blood sampling were performed, including biochemical tests (creatinine, urea). During the 30-60 minute inhalation anesthesia with monitoring of vital functions, a CT scan of two regions was conducted. The images were sent to Italy, where specialized radiologists provided a report and their opinion. Additionally, a fine-needle aspiration was performed under ultrasound guidance, and the cytological analysis of the tissue was conducted in Austria.
Total costs: 840,46€
Blood tests before surgery
It was necessary to perform biochemical tests on Ark’s blood, as calcium levels are important for anesthesia and the surgery itself. We also needed to determine Ark’s blood type to find suitable blood donors for transfusion during and after the surgery.
Total costs: 59,76€
The Surgery
Before the surgery, several important procedures were carried out to ensure safety and success. First, biochemical and hematological tests were performed, including pre-anesthetic tests and a complete blood count. Due to the lengthy and complex nature of the surgery, a blood transfusion was also required. Ark was prepared for surgery with an intravenous catheter, endotracheal intubation, and infusion. Additionally, various medications were administered before the surgery, including Propofol for anesthesia, Comfortan for pain relief, Zinacef as an antibiotic, and other drugs to prepare for the procedure.
The surgery involved a sternotomy (opening of the chest) and resection of the thymoma (removal of the tumor). The operation lasted over 240 minutes, requiring prolonged inhalation anesthesia with precise monitoring of vital functions. Various medications were used during the surgery to maintain anesthesia and manage pain, including Fentanyl, Lidocaine, Ketamidor, and Levobupivacaine. A thoracic drain was also inserted to remove fluid from the chest after the surgery. Tissue samples were taken during the operation and sent for additional pathohistological examinations. The surgery was performed by Dr. Tanja Plavec, DVM, from the Veterinary Faculty in Ljubljana.
After the surgery, Ark received intensive care (3 days), which included close monitoring of his vital functions and the use of pain management medications such as Durogesic patches in various dosages. A post-operative X-ray was performed to check his condition after the surgery. Ark was catheterized to ensure proper care and facilitate urination. During his care, he received multiple infusions and blood transfusions.
Total costs: 4.516,05€
A Fluid Puncture
Since a large amount of serohemorrhagic fluid was leaking from Arko’s thoracic drain wound and was also accumulating in the chest and abdominal cavities, it was necessary to visit the veterinarian immediately and perform a fluid puncture.
Total costs: 191,00€
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping Ark in his fight for life!
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