Murphy, a County Durham retriever, has been praised by vets for his ongoing battle with cancer.
He was first diagnosed with a high-grade canine lymphoma in November 2022.
Since then, he has been treated by the specialist oncology team at Linnaeus-owned Wear Referrals in Bradbury, County Durham.
They wanted to share Murphy's story as part of World Cancer Day on February 4.
Aaron Harper, head of oncology and an RCVS and European Specialist in veterinary oncology, said: "We first got to know Murphy after he was diagnosed with a canine lymphoma known as Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.
"He had an abdominal ultrasound scan, chest x-rays and had his bone marrow taken to help us better understand how far his lymphoma had spread around his body.
"Murphy was then started on the gold-standard management of this type of lymphoma, called a CHOP protocol, which features a combination of injectable and oral chemotherapy."
Emily Macleod, a dedicated oncology registered veterinary nurse (RVN) at Wear, said the protocol is a 19-week long course of treatment which requires weekly visits to the hospital.
She said: "Murphy’s visits last around two hours thanks to the expertise and efficiency of the oncology and laboratory teams, which means he is soon back home with his family.
"He was a superstar patient and completed his treatment in March 2023 and attended the hospital for monthly remission checks.
"However, in October 2023, his lymph nodes appeared enlarged again, indicating a relapse in his lymphoma, and it was decided to repeat the CHOP protocol again."
Murphy’s owners, Alan and Mags Tallentire, from Weardale, County Durham, are full of gratitude to Aaron, Emily and the Wear team for their help, support and care during their beloved pet’s ongoing cancer battle.
Mags said: "Murphy was only two years old when he was first diagnosed. We were in shock; very worried and upset. He’s one of our family and was still a baby with his life in front of him.
"It was explained that canine lymphoma is a very serious condition which is rarely cured. The aim of treatment is to give good quality of life for as long as possible.
"He tolerates his treatment very well. He is a happy boy, who enjoys playing with his siblings, exploring on long walks and loves his snuggles with us."
Alan added: "We’re so grateful our primary vet’s thorough examination initially identified the problem and the oncology team at Wear has been absolutely fantastic from the start.
"They have been supportive throughout. They were there for us and answered all of our questions and concerns.
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"Cancer treatment is long term, so we have got to know each other well and built up a trusting rapport.
"Their care for Murphy is evident. They know him and his idiosyncrasies so well, which is a comfort for us.
"He bounces in to see the team, tail wagging, and loves all their fussing. Their knowledge, care and compassion are second to none."
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