Shelter dogs might not have a family of their own, but they still deserve all the love and care they need. When one three-year-old Chihuahua was sick with cancer, his friends were determined to give him a fighting chance for a better life.

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Now, this little dog’s story has a pleased ending.

Eric the Chihuahua arrived at the San Diego Humane Society in July. He was covered in ticks, and with blood on his feet, the Humane Society wrote on Facebook.

Veterinarians examined the poor dog and found a heartbreaking diagnosis: Eric had a cancerous Transmissible Venereal Tumor.


Treatment would be a long process, but even though Eric had only been in their care for a few days, the San Diego Humane Society set out to treat his cancer through chemotherapy.

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The Chihuahua immediately began his first round of chemo, beginning a months-long treatment. They also worked to treat his Ehrlichiosis, a disease caused by ticks.

Eric reportedly underwent 17 rounds of chemotherapy. Vets sedated the dog during his treatments for comfort, and he stayed in the care of a friendly foster family.

Battling cancer is always a tough fight, but thankfully, this little dog pulled through.

On November 13, the San Diego Humane Society announced that Eric had finished his cancer treatments and was now cancer-free!

Photos show the Chihuahua proudly sporting a “chemo grad” bandana and celebrating the milestone with all his friends.

“Four months and 17 rounds of chemotherapy later, everyone who cared for Eric is thrilled to see that this resilient pup is now cancer free, healthy, and available for adoption!” the Humane Society wrote.

And being cancer-free also meant that Eric could finally find a forever home. Thankfully, it didn’t take long for him to find a new family.

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