ASUS, a campus dog who has accompanied teachers and students at Shulin High School for many years, recently developed abnormal redness, swelling, and third eyelid prolapse in his left eye. The school promptly transferred him to the Zhonghe Animal Home operated by the New Taipei City Government Animal Protection and Disease Control Office for further examination. After careful evaluation by a team of veterinarians, the cause was identified—not simple inflammation, but a deep-seated ocular mass pushing the third eyelid outward.

Dr. Chang Yu-An, a licensed veterinary ophthalmologist, conducted a detailed examination and determined that tumors in a dog’s third eyelid often have malignant tendencies. Delayed treatment could lead to pain, discomfort, and progressive spread. After thorough discussion, it was decided to proceed with enucleation (removal) of the left eye to completely eliminate the lesion and improve ASUS’s long-term quality of life.

The surgery proceeded smoothly. The excised tissue was sent to the National Taiwan University College of Veterinary Medicine for pathological analysis. The report confirmed the diagnosis: Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the third eyelid—a locally aggressive malignant tumor. While the risk of metastasis is relatively low, there remains a possibility of local recurrence, so ongoing regular monitoring is recommended.

Despite losing one eye, ASUS has shown remarkable adaptability. His postoperative spirit and appetite remain strong, and he continues to interact enthusiastically with caregivers. Dr. Huang Chi-Ting, veterinarian at the Zhonghe Animal Home, stated that dogs adapt very well to monocular vision; with proper care and companionship, most can maintain an excellent quality of life.

The New Taipei City Animal Protection Office emphasized that animals, like humans, face threats from diseases such as cancer. Early detection and early treatment are crucial to protecting our furry family members. They expressed gratitude to Shulin High School for their long-term dedicated care of ASUS, and to the medical team for their joint efforts in safeguarding his health. They hope ASUS will continue to serve as a warm and healing presence on campus, creating cherished memories for more students.