Full Notification

Earlier this year Janesville Police K9 Fred developed a limp associated with what appeared to be an injury to his left hind paw. After treatment from our regular veterinarians at the Janesville Animal Medical Center, the wound did not heal. Fred was referred to Madison Veterinary Specialists (MVS) where it was believed one of his pads may contain a foreign object. On June 6, 2019, a procedure was done to remove a portion of the pad on his third toe. That section of pad was sent for testing and we were later informed that it tested positive for melanoma cancer. As a result, other tests were completed to see if the cancer has infected his lymph nodes or other parts of his body. Those tests came back negative. At this time it is unknown if the original procedure to remove a section of the pad has removed all of the cancer. The location of this cancer is not typical for canines.

After consulting with MVS, the course of treatment suggested is an initial round of four melanoma vaccine shots followed by a shot every six months. Continual monitoring of the affected site will determine the effectiveness of the shots or if a more aggressive treatment may be needed such as amputation of the toe.

Officer Drew Severson, Fred’s handler, discovered an organization based out of Madison that funds canine cancer research and treatment. Czar’s Promise was contacted and has graciously agreed to pay for all of Fred’s cancer treatments. He will begin his first treatment next week. Fred remains on the street, providing service to the citizens of Janesville.

Cancer is a difficult word to hear for anyone and anything. We appreciate the support from all of the medical professionals at the Janesville Animal Medical Center, Madison Veterinary Specialists, and Czar’s Promise. For more information on Czar’s Promise, visit their website at www.czarspromise.com .

By: Sgt. Dean Sukus
Date: 6/28/2019