Photo By Keisha Frith | Dennis sitting with his handler, Pfc. Cierra Ritter during his chemotherapy treatment...... read more read more
Fort Bragg, NC – U.S. military working dog, Dennis, a six-year-old Belgian Malinois, with the 550th Military Police Detachment has successfully completed chemotherapy treatment for osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, at Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC).
Dennis, a patrol and drug certified canine was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in May and underwent amputation of his affected limb. He then received five chemotherapy infusions at WAMC following his first treatment at a local medical facility with the final treatment taking place on September 10.
He completed his final chemotherapy session with a celebratory bell-ringing ceremony, a tradition typically reserved for human patients. Surrounded by the Fort Bragg Veterinary and WAMC Team.
The treatment was made possible through a partnership between Womack's Oncology Department and the Fort Bragg Veterinary service, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary care for service members and their animals.
This partnership enabled Dennis to receive five rounds of chemotherapy, at no cost to his unit. “The synergy between or veterinary and medical team exemplifies our commitment to providing comprehensive care for service members and their K9 partners,” said Capt. Paige Sommer, Veterinarian, Veterinary Readiness Activity, Fort Bragg.
By utilizing Womack, we were able to complete his chemotherapy at no cost which would have incurred a significant cost.
Dennis’s treatment included cutting edge services like computed tomography (CT) scans and chemotherapy infusions, facilitated by seamless coordination between veterinary and medical staff.
"This was a collaborative effort between our team and the veterinary service," said Dr. Sherry Lamberth, an Oncology Clinical Pharmacist at WAMC. "We're proud to have provided this critical care to Dennis, and we're grateful for the opportunity to serve our nation's service members and their animals."
Dennis’ handler, who is currently deployed, plans to adopt him upon her return.
WAMC is committed to ensuring the best care for all our warfighters, even the ones with four legs.
| Date Taken: | 09.30.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.30.2025 16:36 |
| Story ID: | 549741 |
| Location: | FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 97 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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