Cancer-stricken pit bull in need of forever home

PHOENIX (FOX 10) - Xena, a 9-year-old pit bull with cancer, is in need of a forever home.

A spokesperson with Halo Animal Rescue in Phoenix says the sweet pup is having trouble finding a home because of her cancer diagnosis.

Xena loves belly rubs and knows several tricks, including how to sit, shake and lay down. She is well-mannered on a leash and is housebroken.

Officials say several people have been interested in adopting Xena, but they all declined once they learned of her cancer diagnosis.

When Xena first arrived at Halo Animal Rescue, she had a large mass on her side and a small one on one of her legs.

When the masses were removed and biopsied, they were found to be grade 2 Mass Cell Tumors, and although the masses have been removed, there is no guarantee that the cancer is gone.

"We understand that most people can't take on the financial and emotional burden of adopting an older dog with cancer, but Xena deserves to live out her final months or years in a home," said Heather Allen, President and CEO of HALO Animal Rescue. "We are hopeful a wonderful family will step forward to adopt Xena. There is no way to know how much time she has left, but she will be a wonderful companion to any family who chooses to adopt her."

If you are interested in adopting Xena, please contact Halo Animal Rescue at 602-971-9222 or visit halorescue.org.