US veterinarian: Hero dog that lost snout saving 2 girls appears to have beaten cancer

The Associated Press / Times Colonist
December 25, 2012

File - In this August, 12, 2012 file photo provided by the University of California, Davis, a Bunggal family member plays with Kabang the dog in the Philippines. A veterinarian at the University of California, Davis, has some good news about a dog from the Philippines who became an international hero after sacrificing its snout to save two young girls. Veterinarian Gina Davis says the dog named Kabang appears to have beaten the cancer it was suffering from. (AP Photo/UC Davis, Anton Lim, File)

DAVIS, Calif. - A veterinarian has some good news about a dog from the Philippines who became an international hero after sacrificing its snout to save two young girls.

Gina Davis with the University of California, Davis, tells the San Francisco Chronicle the dog named Kabang appears to have beaten the cancer it was suffering from.

Kabang still faces treatment for heartworms in its arteries before it can have the gaping wound on its face closed.

Newspapers in the Philippines reported that Kabang had her snout and upper jaw sheared off when she jumped in front of a speeding motorcycle, saving her owner's daughter and niece who were apparently about to be hit.

A nurse from New York state led a fundraising campaign to bring the dog to the U.S.

Surgeons are planning to perform two or three procedures for dental work, extractions and covering exposed roots.

They will then try to close the dog's wound and restore nasal functions. The dog's bony structures are currently exposed to air, increasing the chance of infection, Davis said.

Kabang may return to the Philippines in May or June. The bill for her treatment is expected to top $10,000.

Davis said despite Kabang's many conditions, the dog appears in good spirits.

"She has come through everything very well," Davis said. "Her appetite is still good. She's still bright and happy."