Gibson, world's tallest dog, loses leg to cancer

More news from the wide world of animal-related Guinness records: Gibson, the world's tallest dog, has lost a leg to cancer.

Gibson, a harlequin Great Dane, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of malignant bone cancer that strikes dogs and cats in addition to humans.  A tumor was found on Gibson's paw, but veterinarians acted with extreme caution, removing his entire front right leg to prevent the possible spread of the cancer. 

The Great Dane is now resting at the Grass Valley, Calif. home of his owner, Sandy Hall.  "I’m nursing him on the front couch," Hall told the Grass Valley Union. 

He'll receive chemotherapy treatments in the weeks to come but is expected to bounce back from the loss of his leg.  He'll also retain his World's Tallest Dog title; the loss of his leg hasn't affected his height (42.2 inches, if you're wondering).

Gibson is a certified therapy dog and he'll continue his work with cancer patients and amputees, among others, when he's fully recovered.  "His ability to uphold his world title will continue to put smiles on people’s faces and uplift the spirit of those who are survivors of bone cancer," Hall said.

--Lindsay Barnett

Photo: Gibson with his friend Zoie, a 7 1/2" tall chihuahua.  Credit: Deanne Fitzmaurice / European Pressphoto Agency.

Comments

[kim]

Wow. That sucks! I certainly hope Gibson makes a full recovery.
I also hope that the owner has never, ever bred Gibson. Bone diseases are hereditary, not to mention Gibson (though he is tall and loveable) is NOT the quality of Great Dane that reputable breeders look for. He is way to tall to be shown though he could get other titles for his therapy work and good citizenship or obedience. Regardless of his pedigree, his health and overall size is reason enough to have NEVER bred this dog.
That being said, I hope Gibson makes a speedy recovery and lives a full life (only about 8 - 10 yrs for a Dane).

[Ola]

Gibson still the tallest dog? well, where's the proof?
did he been measured again? bring up some photo or video evidence, and give me the name of the required two witnesses.

the process must have been documented

[Olivia Strutz]

Hi! I have a great dane to. Her name is Duchess. A couple month ago my dogs tummy fliped and got stong by a bee lucky for us shes still alive. She is turning 3 in September. I wish my dog was better.

Olivia Strutz

[Camille]

You guys must not have a heart! This dog is a rare kind of dane, being tall in not a bad quality..... Why is it a person can be tall and it be cool but with this dog you say he shouldnt be breed ect. And im sure 1 of your family members have had cancer or some other kind of hereditary disease but that doesnt stop anyone from producing kids! This dog has done more good deeds in his life time than anyone has done in prob a year! And yes all of us dane owners know that they only live a small life, thats why we choose to spoil them rotten! You should really watch what you say, i would feel really bad if his owner came on her a read this! RIP GIBSON