A NINE-year-old cocker spaniel called Timmy is the latest winner of the ?Braveheart? award made by an Okehampton vets practice. When a swelling the size of a bean suddenly appeared on Timmy?s neck, his owner brought him to Okeford Veterinary Centre immediately. After initial treatment the mass continued to grow and when tests proved inconclusive, it was decided he should undergo surgery to remove it. By this time the lump was the size of a lemon and closely associated with the important structures of the neck. Timmy underwent two hours of extensive and intricate surgery to remove the mass and place a drain under the skin. He was allowed home two days later but required regular visits to the practice for check-ups. Two weeks after surgery, Timmy?s stitches were removed and the wound had healed well thanks to some careful nursing by his owner. ?Timmy has shown exceptional bravery and patience throughout his recovery,? said vet Kirstin Phippard. The practice was therefore delighted to award Timmy the Braveheart award for February. Tests performed on the mass showed a chronic yet aggressive infection of the lymph node and surrounding tissue. Thankfully, Timmy has now made a full recovery.