When he was found on the streets of Nafpaktos, Greece, the dog Menios was on the verge of death. He was severely emaciated from prolonged starvation, and one of his ribs had broken and pierced through his skin. Vets believed Menios had been brutally abused by his former owner before being thrown out.
Touched by his heartbreaking story, Joanne Lowen from Lower Halstow, UK, adopted Menios. Thanks to her unconditional love and care, Menios quickly recovered both physically and emotionally. In just a few months, he regained his energy and spirit, resembling the proud Greek hunting dog he once was.
But in a twist of fate, the dog she saved ended up saving her in return.
Lowen shared: “I started noticing something strange—Menios kept sniffing me intensely whenever we lay on the sofa together. At first, I thought it was just because of my deodorant.” But as the behavior grew more persistent and the dog became visibly agitated, her instincts told her something was wrong.
Though her initial checkup didn’t reveal any abnormalities, her doctor recommended further testing. A scan later revealed a tumor near her armpit. A biopsy confirmed it was invasive lobular breast cancer—a form that starts in the milk glands and can quietly spread if undetected.
“I told my doctor about Menios’s behavior, and he wasn’t surprised. He had heard of similar cases where dogs detected cancer in their owners,” said Lowen.
She underwent surgery, and fortunately, the cancer had not yet spread to her lymph nodes. However, the doctors warned it could return.
Back home, Menios continued his unusual sniffing behavior—until her second surgery in June 2019. After that, he stopped completely. Days later, the hospital confirmed the cancer was fully removed.
“Menios truly saved my life,” Lowen said. “I believe every dog deserves a chance. You never know—one day they might end up saving yours too.”