Boom's Growth (Removal)

[guidofatherof5]

Boomerang has a number of skin growths. I had her checked about a month ago but decided not to have this one removed due to her being gravid.
Since then it has doubled in size and I felt it must be removed regardless of how it will effect her being gravid.
It will be lasered off later in the day. Once removed it will be sent off for identification. (well worth the $30 fee)
This is boom chillin' in the hood of my jacket before the Vet. came in.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/growth.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom_chillin.jpg

[kibakiba]

Awww poor Boom. I hope she does alright! You and Boomerang will be in my thoughts.

[BLUESIRTALIS]

Poor girl i hope everything goes well.

[infernalis]

Ditto from us Steve....

[andycul]

Fingers crossed everything goes well and hope she makes a speedy recovery :)

[guidofatherof5]

Boom is back home and doing well. According to my Vet. the growth was not very deep, which he felt was a good thing.
She's got a few stitches and the incision will be treated with Silver Sulfadiazine.
She'll spend the next couple weeks upstairs where I can keep a special eye on her.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/newboom.jpg

[Stefan-A]

Glad to hear it went well.

[Mommy2many]

Hope all turns out well.

[indigoman]

Glad everything went well. Will be interested in what that growth was.

[gregmonsta]

What he said ^^ very strange looking. Fingers crossed for a good recovery.

[guidofatherof5]

Glad everything went well. Will be interested in what that growth was.

I'll post the histopathology report as soon as I get it.;)

[infernalis]

Glad it went well, and any snake is extremely fortunate to be in your care.

[guidofatherof5]

Boom seems to be just fine after her ordeal yesterday.
I love this snake.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom.jpg

[BLUESIRTALIS]

Great!!!

[count dewclaw]

Boom seems to be just fine after her ordeal yesterday.
I love this snake.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom.jpg

Glad she seems to be doing well.

BTW, which ones don't you love? ;)

[guidofatherof5]

Glad she seems to be doing well.

BTW, which ones don't you love? ;)

You got me there.:D

[nitrogen15]

Glad the procedure went so well Steve. I wonder if it's anything like human benign cysts and could grow back. I hope not!

[andycul]

Glad to hear it went well. :D

[guidofatherof5]

She downed a few pinkies today.
Hoping her recovery continues well.

[infernalis]

great news!!

[Spankenstyne]

Glad to hear she seems to be doing so well.

[ConcinusMan]

She was trying to grow arms to hug you with, and you had to go and cut it off.:p

Glad to hear she's doing well. The wound looks really good.

[drache]

good to hear she's doing well
that wound does look good, especially considering that thing came out of it

[guidofatherof5]

I just recieved the histopathology report on Boom.

Final Diagnosis: Melanoma (melanophorma), malignant

This news is devasting.
I'm at a loss for words.
My poor Boom.

[Stefan-A]

Really sorry to hear it, Steve.

[BLUESIRTALIS]

Sorry to hear it steve. Is there anything they can do?

[guidofatherof5]

Sorry to hear it steve. Is there anything they can do?

I'll be taking with the Vet. over the next few days to see.
She has approx. 5 other small growths on her and I will see if they should be removed or just what should be done.
This new is just terrible. Like getting gut kicked.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/histo.jpg

[BLUESIRTALIS]

Well i hope everthing works out for you and boom.

[PINJOHN]

sorry Steve, the worse possible news, we will all be pulling for her

[kibakiba]

I'm so sorry about the news, Steve. You and Boom will be in my thoughts.
I hope everything will work out for you guys!

[Mommy2many]

I am so sorry to hear this news, Steve. Hugs for you both.

[nitrogen15]

I'm sorry, Steve. Lost a dog to a malignant growth and it sucks. I'm glad Boom's quality of life doesn't seem to be affected yet.

[guidofatherof5]

I'm sorry, Steve. Lost a dog to a malignant growth and it sucks. I'm glad Boom's quality of life doesn't seem to be affected yet.

Hoping it will go dormant or be slow to grow and give her a few more years.
Still need to talk with the Vet. about possible treatment.
Knowing darn well there's not much in the way of cancer treatment for snakes.

[andycul]

So sorry to hear that Steve. Like you said I hope it goes dormant and she has a while left.

[Sonya610]

Knowing darn well there's not much in the way of cancer treatment for snakes.

When cancer has metastasized there often really isn't much they can do for humans or other domestic animals, well sure they can "do stuff" but many of the treatments to buy more time are pretty horrid (though the articles usually only talk about the "survivability period" not the details of what goes during that period).

I have lost dogs to cancer, I have faced a terminal (errant) diagnosis myself and in all cases I chose to forgo the horrid treatment options that would ruin ones quality of life. While people can make the choice to undergo those treatments, our animals don't have a choice so we need to be mindful of putting their comfort over our own.

[drache]

I'm so sorry about this bad news

[guidofatherof5]

While people can make the choice to undergo those treatments, our animals don't have a choice so we need to be mindful of putting their comfort over our own.

Well put. Thanks.


My focus is on Boomerang. Her comfort and what's best for her.
I know that losing her from this cancer is in the cards.
I will not let her suffer from treatment or this diagnoses.
Right now I'm just enjoying this awesome snake. Took her outside tonight and dug her a few fresh night crawlers.
Spoil her, you bet.;)

[gregmonsta]

Spoil her, you bet.;)

And keep 'em 'crawlers comin' ;)

[guidofatherof5]

And keep 'em 'crawlers comin' ;)

She'll be treated like a Queen.
No different than any other day for her.:D

[guidofatherof5]

Spoke to Boom's Vet today.
He said there's not much that can be done to prevent or lessen the eventual outcome. Any additional growths that bleed or cause her discomfort will be removed.
He will leave the call on her quality of life to me.
I'm hoping for a long quality of life for my girl.

[infernalis]

I just recieved the histopathology report on Boom.

Final Diagnosis: Melanoma (melanophorma), malignant

This news is devasting.
I'm at a loss for words.
My poor Boom.

so sorry to read that Steve. You are both in my thoughts.

[Selkielass]

Poor Boomerang.
I hope she delivers a nice bunch of babies to carry on her legacy.

[zirliz]

just read this so sad :(

We lost 2 dogs to cancer it was devastating one lasted over a year before it became obvious that she was lost :(

I hope your snake has lots of babies :)

and she lives a nice life before the ill effects hit her

Poor girl

[guidofatherof5]

Boom just completed a shed cycle and looks beautiful.
Here's a photo of the operation site.
Looking very good. Stitches have dissolved and I think one more shed should finish all the work.
Boom continues to look gravid and hopefully there will be babies in the very near future.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom4.jpg

[infernalis]

Healing up nice Steve..

[andycul]

Looking good Steve. Fingers crossed for lots of little snakies :D

[Sonya610]

Steve take heart in the fact that this is a roll of the dice. I am betting there have NOT been many studies on Garter Snake malignant melanoma therefore there are likely no survival statistics or for that matter no stats on spontaneious recovery. If it does not impact human survivability it is not usually even a footnote.

She looks good, she feels good, the AVMA nor the AMA would come out with a nationwide article if things did NOT turn out as expected so enjoy the moment without the shadow. Fact is malignant cancer cells pop up all the time in normal healthy individuals, and only some times grow wild and kill.

Anything can happen, sometimes/oftentimes things we never expect, so chin up. : )

[RdubSnider]

She is looking good. I wouldn't be surprised if she doesn't stick around the ranch for quite a while. Hope those babies come out nice

[drache]

the healing looks good
is there still swelling underneath?

[guidofatherof5]

the healing looks good
is there still swelling underneath?

No, that's just the way I was holding her. Sorry about that.

[drache]

oh good
it all looks really good then

[ConcinusMan]

Boom looks great Steve. Nice job. I know there may be nothing you can do about cancer in the long run but I'm sure this extended Boom's life. No doubt. I'm really impressed with the fast healing.

[guidofatherof5]

I've noticed over the last week or so that Boom is swelling some where that growth was removed.
Not sure what's going on but her attitude remains great.

[kibakiba]

I hope that it's noting too serious. She'll be in my thoughts :)

[guidofatherof5]

The area where the melanoma was removed is growing larger.
I will be contacting her Vet. on Monday to see if more surgery is needed or if there is any other course of action that can be taken.
Boom's attitude is good and she shows no signs of slowing down.
Part of me says no more surgery and part of me wants to do all I can to help her.
I'm not ready to let go of this fine radix. She is one special girl.

[kibakiba]

I hope everything will be fine with Boom. Could it just be swelling from the surgery?

Something like that happened with my foot, it's been 6 weeks and should be completely healed, but I get random swelling that gets even larger than what it was when it first happened. My doctor told me it was nothing and to not mess with it. So, hopefully, it's like that?

[guidofatherof5]

I hope everything will be fine with Boom. Could it just be swelling from the surgery?


I wish this were the case but it's not.
I know how this is going to end,
I just hope it doesn't end too soon.

[kibakiba]

Everything will turn out fine, Steve. Keep your chin up and stay positive. I know it's hard, but sometimes things work themselves out more, or at least they seem to, when you stay positive about them.

[guidofatherof5]

I spoke with Boomerang's Vet. this morning with regards to her growth returning.
He said it could be removed again only this time removing a larger area(he doesn't recommend this).
He also said as long as she's doing everything normally it can be left to run its course.
He doesn't think removing it will stop this cancer.
At this point I'm not sure what I want to do.
For now "what boom wants, boom gets" and she's taking full advantage of that.:D

[kibakiba]

Well I'm glad Boom is getting treated like a queen. She definitely deserves it. I really hope that she'll live for quite some time with you, despite the growth. Give her lots of love, Steve. :)

[guidofatherof5]

Not very pretty.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom21.jpg

[kibakiba]

Awwww. Poor Boom. Give her some love for me, Steve. That looks quite uncomfortable.

[drache]

poor girl
I hope it doesn't bother her much

[RicMartin]

Sorry to hear this. I hope she lives as long as possible, I know she will have a great quality of life at Steve's ranch, whatever its duration.

[guidofatherof5]

Found this photo and thought I would post it. She is such a beautiful snake.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom1.jpg

[RedSidedSPR]

She is. Hope all works out

[guidofatherof5]

She's a strong snake both body and spirit.

[RedSidedSPR]

She looks it

[kibakiba]

Those eyes look very determined. Kind of like Mama's eyes. You can always see strength, determination and curiosity in her beautiful eyes.

[flickerfriend]

Anymore news?

[guidofatherof5]

The growth is about the size of a shelled peanut and appears to have stopped growing.
Boom continues to behave normally. It doesn't seem to impede her movement at all.
At this point I do not plan anymore surgerys for her.
I'm hoping this cancer has a certain size limit and will allow her a normal life.
The best thing that could happen is if she could become gravid again next Spring.
She's a very special snake.

[flickerfriend]

did she give birth yet? if so. are there piccys?

[guidofatherof5]

She only had one alive. The others were stillborn or unfertilized eggs(slugs).
Her one and only daughter is named Kaboom and continues to do very well.
http://www.thamnophis.com/forum/general-talk/8645-kaboom-t-radix.html

[guidofatherof5]

I'm planning a photo shoot outside with a few of my snakes tomorrow. Booms on the list.
I'll post a few photos then.

[flickerfriend]

Cool.

[Mommy2many]

Praying that Boom can conquer this disease and live a happy life with you and Kaboom, Steve.

[guidofatherof5]

Boomerang is doing well. The growth on her side has returned but appears to have reach a size and stabilized.
At this point I will not subject her to any further surgery.
She is eating very well and able to move without any noticeable trouble.
Her attitude is wonderful. One of the nicest snakes I have.

[RedSidedSPR]

glad she's doing well. She's an awesome snake.

[guidofatherof5]

glad she's doing well. She's an awesome snake.

In every way. She was given to me as a gift.
Couldn't have gotten a nicer one.;)

[guidofatherof5]

Thougth I would update this thread and I only wish it was better news.
Boom is off food and has been for the last month.
Her cancer has tripled in size.
I've been getting her outside for plenty or fresh air and sunshine.
She's a sweet girl.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//675/medium/boomerang3.jpg

[kibakiba]

I'm sure she appreciate it, Steve. Give her some hugs and kisses for me :)

[Mommy2many]

Best wishes!

[Char361979]

Poor Boom. Give her our hugs plus plenty of snakie hugs from our brood.

[guidofatherof5]

I wish I had better news about Boom. She continues to lose weight and refuses to eat.
I took her to the water dish and she did drink but if not for my intervention she wouldn't have gotten a drink on her own.
The once solid girl is now frail looking and the spark has left her appearance.
The tumor is about the size of a walnut. I will not let her starve to death.
I am monitoring her daily and will put her down soon.
I love her too much to allow her to starve to death.

[EasternGirl]

Oh Steve...I am so sorry. This must be very difficult. You and Boom are in my thoughts and prayers.

[chris-uk]

Not a good update Steve. All you can do now is make sure she doesn't suffer. :(

[Light of Dae]

So sorry to hear about Boom, Glad she gave you a beautiful girl to carry her legacy. :)
We be needing some new pictures... Maybe of mom n daughter together one last time?

God gives you all these snakes because He knows your strong enough for them n that they will get the best care in your hands.

[RedSidedSPR]

Sorry Steve.:( That sucks... Right choice though, starving is not cool...

[guidofatherof5]

Here are a few updated photos of Boomerang. It will be a shame to see her go.
She has been perfect in every way while here at the Ranch.
I'm looking forward to working with and watching her only daughter (Kaboom) grow and mature.

http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom5.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom6.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom41.jpg

[kimbosaur]

Poor Boom. She really is stunning!

[guidofatherof5]

It's a shame to watch her waste away.
She's one of those snakes that has made a big impact on my understanding of garter snakes.
To have a snake that comes to see you for more then just food. That will come out with you just to hangout.
No startle movements or quick get away moves. Just a comfortable snake chilling with a human. Total trust.
Everyday I've had with her has been a blessing.

[guidofatherof5]

Time is short for Boom as her cancer continues to grow. On a good note she ate a worm today.
I love her but don't want this to continue much longer.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom7.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom8.jpg

[EasternGirl]

Poor sweet Boom...she has had a great life with you and is as blessed to have you as you are to have her.

[GarterGuy17]

This honestly made me cry :'( She will be in my thoughts.

[chris-uk]

She's a lucky snake to have you care for her, I know she's a special snake to you and you have done more for her than most owners would have done. I was thinking about you and Boom yesterday evening and hoping that you were OK.

[PINJOHN]

Time is short for Boom as her cancer continues to grow. On a good note she ate a worm today.
I love her but don't want this to continue much longer.
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom7.jpg
http://www.thamnophis.com/thamphotos/data//500/medium/boom8.jpg

Dont know just what to say Steve, earlier posts seems to have covered it, except to say you will know when the time is right so sorry

[Selkielass]

Sorry times looking short. I feel honored to have met her, both in person and thru your touching posts.

[Mommy2many]

She is a really stunning snake. I'm so sorry she is losing this battle. What a sweetie!

[mikem]

poor girl :( that looks uncomfortable. you've done the best you can for her. keeping you guys in my thoughts. i know this has to be a tough time for you. wish i could do something to help. keep us updated.

[guidofatherof5]

All of the thoughts are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[guidofatherof5]

R.I.P. my precious Boomerang.

[ScimitarX]

Sorry Steve :( she will be remembered by us all

[chris-uk]

Sorry Steve. Knowing that this day would come doesn't make it easier. Char and I are thinking about you.

[GarterGuy17]

Rest in peace boom :( She will be remembered.

[Mommy2many]

So sorry to hear that the battle has been lost.Rest in Peace, Boom.

[snakehill]

So sorry Steve! RIP Boom. :(

[EasternGirl]

Rest in peace beautiful girl...you will be remembered by all of us. You and Boom are in my thoughts and prayers, Steve.

[PINJOHN]

Had a few days which have not allowed me on the site, was looking forward to catching up with at least some of the posts, but this was one i really didn't want to see, we all know the personal one to one relationship you develop with your snakes Steve and we know even taking that into account this lady was an extra special friend, as Chris said knowing what's coming helps not at all... so so sorry

[gregmonsta]

Gutted for you mate.

[Ryachanira]

So sorry to here about Boomerang - will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Spend some extra time with her daughter to remember her legacy.

[guidofatherof5]

So sorry to here about Boomerang - will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Spend some extra time with her daughter to remember her legacy.

She has a lot to live up to but I'm confident she will do very well.

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and comments.

[mikem]

Sorry for your loss.

[Selkielass]

Sorry she's gone. Glad she was appreciated while she was here.
Fond memories, always.

[aSnakeLovinBabe]

I am just now seeing this... so sorry Steve! I know what this is like... I lost my beloved texas blacktailed rattlesnake Cuppycake to cancer, actually cancer that looked and behaved very similar to Boom's. It was aggressive and it only took a matter of months for her to go downhill :(

[katach]

Just read this Steve. I'm so sorry for your loss. She was an amazing looking snake!