In September 2024, a family in St. Augustine stumbled upon a beloved Basset Hound, Filomena Menolascino, wandering the streets. This sweet girl was in rough shape, suffering from severe periodontal disease, a heart murmur, ectoparasites, and multiple masses on her body. Despite her rough exterior, her family described her as having a big toothy smile (with cracked teeth) and an energetic wagging tail, which immediately captured their hearts.
Filomena’s family brought her to UF Small Animal Hospital Primary Care & Dentistry for much-needed attention. Under the care of Dr. Wendy Mandese and student Anastasia Psilos, Filomena received essential vaccinations, parasite control, a cardiology consultation, and a dental cleaning with Dr. Cullen Domaracki.
In February 2025, Filomena’s progress was disrupted by a sudden inability to walk. A mass under her left armpit had grown significantly, impairing her mobility and compressing her lymphatic system. She was needing to be wheeled around in a pet wagon at this time and could not walk at all. The mass was sampled, and a consultation with surgical oncology, led by Dr. Elizabeth Maxwell, revealed that a CT scan was necessary to determine if the mass could be safely removed. The stakes were high, as the mass was closely associated with the brachial plexus, and amputation was a possible outcome. Unfortunately, Basset Hounds are not great candidates for amputation given their conformation, so the plan was to do everything we could to save her leg.
Filomena’s family was heartbroken, but they refused to give up. Fortunately, the UF Pet Samaritan Fund stepped in to help cover the costs of surgery. With the support of their community, Filomena’s owners were able to provide her with the care she needed.
On February 18, 2025, Filomena underwent surgery with Dr. Josep Aisa, Dr. Misha Lubanski, and Shelby Brown. The procedure was a success, and the mass was removed without compromising the nerves and vessels in her left forelimb. When Filomena woke up, she immediately started wagging her tail and walking around happily, a testament to her resilience and determination.
Filomena’s biopsy results are still pending, and her family anxiously awaits the outcome (Update: the mass is benign!). If the mass is malignant, it’s possible that it will grow back or metastasize to other areas of her body. However, with the support of her community and the expertise of the UF Small Animal Hospital veterinary team, Filomena’s family remains hopeful.
Filomena is now walking around and loves to come back to UF for her recheck appointments since everyone here loves her. She always receives a showering of hugs and treats!
