07/22/2026
Tessa is an 11-year-old pit bull who is as petite as she is adorable, weighing just 36 pounds and sweet as can be.
In February 2026, Tessa was brought to Avets Neurology department after her family noticed a decrease in her energy and mobility. An MRI performed by Dr. Sandler and her team revealed a mass on her 10th thoracic vertebra that was causing marked compression of the spinal cord, which was most consistent with osteosarcoma.
Because of the tumor's location, surgery was not a safe treatment option. Instead, the team recommended a combination of stereotactic radiation therapy and chemotherapy to help manage her disease. Tessa was immediately started on oral pregabalin and prednisone to improve her comfort and mobility, and a referral was made to PetCure Oncology in Pittsburgh for stereotactic radiation therapy.
After experiencing significant improvement on her medications and completing three radiation treatments, Tessa returned to Avets to continue her care with Dr. Calo and his Oncology team. In March, she began a chemotherapy protocol with carboplatin, receiving one intravenous treatment every three weeks for a total of six treatments. Throughout her treatments, Tessa's family went above and beyond for her, traveling a considerable distance for each appointment without hesitation. For them, every mile was worth it to ensure she received the best possible care - a true reflection of the devotion they have for their girl.
In July, Tessa proudly completed her chemotherapy protocol and has never felt better!
From diagnosis to her final treatment, Tessa was surrounded by a team committed to her care and a family who never stopped showing up for her. We are honored to have been part of her story and are so proud of everything this sweet girl has accomplished.
Congratulations, Tessa!
