Stray Dog with Massive Tumor Gets Life-Saving Rescue — and a Second Chance

In the busy streets of Mettupalayam, India, a heartbreaking sight stopped rescuers in their tracks: a stray dog with a massive, swollen tumor growing over the top of his head, wandering alone and clearly in pain.

Stray dogs are sadly common in India, but this one—nicknamed Biggie—stood out. Locals had seen him aimlessly roaming the streets, barely able to lift his head, his spirit slowly fading. Despite his condition, Biggie still wagged his tail at those who approached him.

That was all it took to spark one of the year’s most touching rescue stories.

Biggie’s life changed when a team from Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS)—a UK-based nonprofit working in underserved areas—spotted him. Though his case was extreme, they sprang into action.

“We’d never seen anything like it,” said one of the WVS vets.

Biggie was rushed to WVS’s India facility, where he was given fluids, pain relief, and X-rays. The tumor, weighing nearly 4.5 pounds (about 10% of his total body weight), hadn’t yet broken through his skull—giving the team a narrow window to save him.

Within 48 hours, Biggie underwent a complex surgery to remove the tumor. It had been wrapped tightly around his skull, but the operation was a success. Without it, he likely wouldn’t have survived.

Even in pain, Biggie never lost his gentle, affectionate nature.

“Biggie is the sweetest dog I’ve ever met,” said Dr. Shreya Bahl, one of the veterinarians who cared for him. “Now he finally has a chance at a happy life.”

After the major procedure, Biggie underwent two more reconstructive surgeries and continues to receive wound care and rehab. But he’s on the mend — playing more, gaining strength, and finally able to lift his head and look his rescuers in the eye.

“He’s the star of our center,” Dr. Bahl added. “We’re spoiling him with love — and he deserves every bit of it.”

Where is Biggie now?
Biggie is recovering at WVS’s center in Ooty, India, where he’s become a favorite among staff, volunteers, and visitors. He’ll stay there until he’s ready for adoption and a loving forever home.

Once a forgotten stray in pain, Biggie is now a symbol of hope, healing, and what’s possible when people choose compassion.