Hi friends! Reef the Fox here with your weekly “Reef’s Report.” This week I am reporting on Penny’s latest medical adventure. Apparently, being a distinguished senior lady now comes with surprise mouth problems and a calendar full of appointments. Personally, I think aging should come with unlimited snacks and fewer people inspecting your gums.
Dr. Doug Mader and Dr. Geraldine Mader, otherwise known as the A-Team, recently came to Key Largo to give Penny a full examination at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. Yes, a fox at a bird center. Only in the Keys does that sound like a perfectly reasonable Monday.
Once Penny was sedated, the doctors discovered that the necrotic tissue previously found between her lip and gums was no longer there. What remained were some raw, irritated areas where the mass had been. Certainly welcome news, although we are keeping our toe beans cautiously crossed until all the results arrive.
A tissue biopsy was collected and sent for testing, along with bloodwork. Penny also had X-rays of her skull and chest. There was no evidence of infection in the bone around her mouth. Her chest images showed some calcified bits and arthritis in parts of her spine, findings typical for a lady of her considerable vintage. I would say “old,” but I enjoy being alive.
Results should be back soon. Until then, we are hoping nothing sneaky turns up. Mother, naturally, will spend that time worrying professionally. She really should invoice someone for it.
Now, allow me to set aside my extraordinary wit for a moment. The Florida Keys Wild Bird Center generously provided its surgical suite and X-ray machine so Penny could receive the care this examination required. Many exams happen here at the sanctuary, but this one needed a professional medical setting.
That kindness matters. When organizations share their resources, animals benefit and humans like mother get to breathe a little easier.
To the A-Team and everyone at the bird center: thank you for showing up for our sweet Penny.
Until next time. Reef. Over and out!
