Aidan – Results of a Medical Exam

As you may recall, we attempted to complete Aidan’s medical exam on April 17th, but Aidan was resistant the effects of the drugs and we had to postpone it.  Since that time, we have been monitoring a growth on his front leg that seemed to be growing at a faster rate and we had ongoing concerns with his discoid lupus and possible correlations with tumors.  In consultation with our veterinarian, we are always suspect of fast growing growths on a 9-year old wolf.  On June 7th, we completed an immobilization and took him to the vet clinic for x-rays, blood work and a removal of the growth.  He has had an odd back leg  on and off for the last few months, but the x-rays showed good hip and knee conformation, so the stance issue could be related to a nerve condition.   We are still investigating correlations with his discoid lupus and some of the digestive issues that cause him to be slow in processing food after feeding.  He is currently on Metoclopramide and Pepcid AC to aid some of his digestive discomfort and he seems to have improved in that aspect.  The biopsy from the growth was diagnosed as a Low Grade Mast Cell Tumor which is a better scenario than a High grade Tumor which has a less favorable prognosis.   Our Vet was able to get all of the tumor creating clear margins, which is important with this type of growth.  There is no indication that the tumor had metastasized or begun to spread to surrounding tissues (via the bloodstream or lymph) and start new tumors.  Staff are diligent during wolf care checks to monitor for any abnormalities whether they be external parasites, scrapes, bites or growths, especially on our older ambassadors.  It is important to understand the process of veterinary care on the pack leader,  Aidan couldn’t be removed from the pack for this procedure or for any recovery time.  If we took him out, the pack could be testing upon his return, especially Boltz.  We managed this scenario with the pack going into the east side retirement area and Aidan recovering within the Exhibit.  The immobilization drugs were completely reversible, but because he was also under gas anesthesia during surgery, he needed a bit more time.  Aidan was at the clinic by 7:30 am, back on site by 8:30 am and the yearlings (who were less than a threat to him) were back with him by 11 am.  Denali and Boltz waited a few more hours before joining the pack in the heat of the day, when the wolves are least active.  We saw some interesting behavior with Grayson actually blocking Denali from approaching Aidan.  One of our staff witnessed Aidan, licking his leg while it was lying on top of Grayson’s back.  Of course, we would rather he didn’t lick it, but he is keeping it clean.  The Wolf Curator spent the first night on site to monitor activities and saw a similar alliance with Grayson and Aidan though the night.  While Aidan initially spent time away from the pack in the upper enclosure, by the 3rd day, he was back in charge of the pack and interacting in all activities, even running with the pack.  We are continuing to treat the suture site with a topical wound powder and are very glad we were able to successfully keep the pack structure in tact while tending to Aidan’s very important needs.