At first glance, Shawn appears to be a healthy ten-year-old boy who weighs 80 pounds. However, appearances can be misleading. In reality, he is fragile due to a life-limiting disease that, if not carefully managed or protected from environmental factors, could deteriorate rapidly in a matter of hours.

Shawn is affected by hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer commonly seen in Pit Bull Terriers. This cancer is characterized by tumors that originate from blood vessels. As the disease progresses, it often spreads to other organs, leading to various complications. Because these tumors are highly vascular, they are prone to rupture, which can result in significant internal bleeding in the chest or abdominal cavity. It is essential to be aware of these final stages for timely intervention and to effectively manage Shawn’s quality of life.