Coping with a Dog with Cancer

[DisneyTones913]

Hey all,

On Monday, my dog Lucky, a 7 year old beagle was diagnosed with Lymphoma. He was acting really sluggish and not himself so we brought him to the doctor. At first, he said he was fine. Then, Luck still didn't get better, so we brought him to another doctor. That doctor diagnosed him with lymphoma. I researched the cancer online and found that 75% of dogs achieve remission. We met with the dog cancer specialist today and he said that either way, Lucky is going to die. It could be tomorrow...it could be a year. But, we have options: 1. let him just decline (with terrible effects). 2. Put him to sleep(there is no way we are just giving up hope) 3. Chemo(for what? he has no chance of remission and it could make him very unhappy). 4. A steriod. We are going with the steroid. It will make him more comfortable, keep him around a bit longer (hopefully through the holidays). We think its the best choice. But, if he doesnt improve and gets worse, we made the decision to not put him through the pain.

Im sorry for giving you all the details, but its different for me. It's my family's first dog and we love him so much. Like many here, our dogs are just as much a part of the family as the brother or son. I know he isnt human, but he really is very much a human in my family. With only one son in the family, he became an honorary blood relative. We spoiled him so much and he gave so much love back. It is so hard to hear that this wonderful dog has cancer. No one so immediate in our family has had cancer, and we are really taking it hard. So, just keep him in your prayers for him to stay around for a few more months. Also, has anyones dog when through this? How do we cope when he is gone?

Thanks everyone for reading. Right now, we are going to enjoy the time we have with him and cherish every moment.

 

[honugirl]

You cope like with any other death- time. Time's the only thing that will heal you once he goes. Enjoy every day you have with him. Make sure that he's comfortable and is enjoying life. Animals will tell you when they're ready to go whether you are or not.

 

[Mackey Mouse]

Sorry to read that, you know I think back on our one and only pet that got cancer.. It was horrific for us, I had my daughter recovering from a cancer surgery on our couch and our cat hiding from us as she knew she was so ill. My husband and my others took the cat to the vet and put her to sleep while I was taking care of my other daughter. We were a mess over this, so I hear you.. Hugs to you and yours, hopefully the dog does well on the steroid and has some time with the family.

 

[safetymom]

Anyone with a pet understands your feelings. It sounds like you made a good choice and I hope it works for your dog.

 

[luvwinnie]

I am so sorry...I"m not sure if it's the same type of lymphoma, but my friend's bulldog went through chemo for lymphoma and lived for 2 years with NO ill effects, it was amazing. I'm not sure why your vet he would NOT achieve remission? Praying for your baby.

We lost our cherished 9 year old bulldog, Winnie, almost 6 weeks ago. We were shattered. Time does help...but what helps the most is just knowing that you loved each other deeply and unconditionally during the time you had together.

This site may help you...www.aplb.org
PM me anytime.

 

[dianemb]

Back In January our Chi, Paco started with an eye infection/scratched cornea. It seemed it was taking a long time to heal but it was getting better slowly. He then developed a cough and the vet did not want to treat it till the eye had healed because the medicines counter act each other. Around presidents day his breathing had gotten worse so we took him back to the vet and they kept him and put him in an oxygen tent. He seemed to get better but then the blood results came back and they said he either had lymphoma or leukemia. What a shock, we didn't have a clue. After we talked to the vet we decided not to put the dog through any extraordinary treatment. The vet said it was not going to cure him and it would only prolong his life but not with a good quality of life. We had him put to sleep while we held him. It was extremely hard but we knew in our hearts it was the best way. My husband was extremely distraught. We ended up adopting a dog from a rescue that weekend. I was against it but, it worked out to be the best decision we ever made. Dingo helped us with the grieving and helped us move on. Good luck and say a prayer to St Francis.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

I'm not positive it was lymphoma, but I'm pretty sure it was - Dan Murphy's Rottweiler, Doc, had it. They did chemo and he lived a great life for 3 years or so. I remember him posting saying that they knew that one day the chemo wouldn't affect it any longer and he would die, and that is what finally happened, but they took the chance and had a good long time with him. Why don't you try PM'ing Dan?

Two of my dogs have died of cancer. One had a bone tumor; the other had a metastatic brain tumor, and I had to put her to sleep the same day I lost all my hair from chemo as I was undergoing treatment for cancer myself at the time. (That was one of the worst days of my life.) I've also lost 3 other dogs, and each time my heart has broken as I've loved them all a great deal.

Almost daily here on the Dis someone posts about pet loss or injury, etc. Lots of people here who understand your feelings. It's hard to make decisions and it's hard to see your pet sick. Best wishes.

 

[DisneyTones913]

Thank you all for your kind replys! It really does help. I am so sorry for all those who have lost loved ones to this terrible thing. It really helps to know that im not the only one whos dog ever got cancer.

dianemb- thats what seemed to happened to Lucky! (well, along those lines) He just seemed a bit sick and nothing to worry about. We took him in and they said he was fine. He had a lump on his paw that we were sure was cancer, but it was only a cyst. But, we brought him back and he was diagnosed. We have already decided to not get another dog, but did it really help alot? Thanks.

Also, our vet said that there are lymph nodes in so many places (and large clumps of them) that there isn't much of a way to get them all gone. Thanks again!

 

[frdeb1999]

I deffinately understand. And I know all pet lovers do also. Peaches was my 1st baby in my eyes. We got her when we were married. She helped me through alot and was a major part of our family. She even put me into early labor with my 1st daughter since I was so stressed from her being extremely sick! LOL Funny, but true! My daughter turns 19 tommorow and we still tell that story. We had to make a decision when our beloved Peaches...(long haired chiuauaha) was 17 yrs old! She was still herself most times. No major illnesses, but very arthridic and getting slower. She was slowly declining and not happy and we could see it. She would cry at times due to painful arthritis problems. And we were told that the meds would just make her cranky...although they would help. We chose after long deliberation to have her put down. She had been a wonderful friend and loved us all as we did her. We were all there when they did it and it still to this day nearly 3 yrs later makes me tear up. We thought it was best for her and could'nt bear to make her be something that she was'nt....a very sweet, lovable and very good tempered dog. You do what you feel is right for your family. Don't look back and second guess yourself. It will be hard when it happens regardless of what choice you make. Just know that there are alot of others that feel the same or more for their pets.

 

[dianemb]

I really didn't think it was a good idea to get another dog so quick. My husband was so lost after Paco died He didn't know what to do. We've been married for 25 years and it was the first time he cried so badly. He went right on to the rescue websites and found our Dingo not top far away.. On that Sunday I was out at the grocery store and He called me to tell me the dog was going to be at the store and can't we just look. I said He could but I wasn't ready. He was heart broken and was going to go without me. I called him back and we all went and just fell in love with Dingo. # other people were there looking for him but we were the first and had all the paper work in order. I didn't relize how badly he wanted that dog. We took him home with us and are so glad we did. My husband just carries that dog around all the time and he is such a sweet and happy dog.

I know it seems almost disrespectful to our first dog Paco getting another one so soon, but my husband says He thinks Paco wanted us to have Dingo and guided my husband to him. It really did make it better having a new little fur ball to cuddle with.

We still love Paco but Dingo is now part of the family. It's almost an onor to Paco that we wanted a new dog so soon. I guess we're just dog people.

Good luck and blessings for you and you whole family.

 

[Snowysmom]

I am so sorry about your dog. My westie was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and I took care of her for 5 months before we had to put her to sleep. She too was on a steroid the rest of her life. I talked with a vet oncologist about chemo and radiation but it wasn't too useful for Snowy's cancer. We gave her lots of love and lots of treats. Friends told me I would know when it was time to let her go, and they were right. I knew, as much as it broke my heart. She has been gone a year and a half now and it seems like yesterday. She was only 8. I still miss her as she was quite a character. I hope your dog does as well as he can. Our pets are family members and it hurts alot to lose them. Give him lots of love and kisses and treats. It will be hard to let him go but you will have good memories to think of. I will keep Lucky in my prayers.

 

[LuvOrlando]

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[DisneyTones913]

Hey Guys,

Thank you for all your support. Unfortunately, it seems that Lucky is going to need to be put down. He seems to be declining and the steroids aren't doing much. Today, he needed to have his pills shoved down his throat and he seems really weak. We dont want him to go through unneeded pain though. We are going to celebrate his 7th birthday tomorrow since we missed his real 7th because we were on a vacation to Disney (how ironic..) and then it's Halloween so we don't know. Thanks for all help given and any help that can be given. Thanks.

 

[DisneyTones913]

Hi,

For anyone still following, we had to put Lucky to sleep today. He was just declining and we and the doctor felt it was cruel to keep him alive for our own sake. It was the hardest thing we've ever done. We got home to no dog and just started crying. My dad went around the house throwing out all his things, but I want to keep some of them. I am going to miss him so much. Any way to ease the pain? Thanks

 

[Maryr1]

I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are such a huge part of our lives. They love without reason and their love knows no bounds. Our responsibility is to be true to them and treat them with compassion and love in return. It is so hard to make the decision to end their suffering, but it is the right thing to do. The pain is deep, but the love is deeper. Your final gift was the gift of release. Your beloved pet is free, the wind is blowing in his face, he is picking up the scent of old friends awaiting him at the bridge. He is pain free, dancing in the tall grass. He will be there waiting when you arrive-ready to lick your face and greet you with the joy of meeting again. Tonight, a star shines brighter in the sky-it is your pet letting you know he is safe, painfree and always with you. Rest in peace Lucky.

 

[seashell724]

I am so so so so so sorry for your loss. SO sorry. I am almost crying. I am a dog lover and have had to deal with loss also. I am heartbroken as well about a pet right now and it just takes so much time and strength to heal.

I do think all dog lovers will understand your hurt. Mine was/is uncontrollable. However you cope, just do it. I cry, I scream, I sob uncontrollably. I call out his name just to hear myself say it.

The worst part for me is coming home to an empty house and not having the schdule of my dog around because we did everything around his walks/other needs. Remembering the good times will help. I wanted to not think about it but my mother understood my pain we talked on the phone and she said to just FEEL the feelings of hurt, love for my dog etc.

Not everyone will understand when you tell them but know that you are NOT alone. That is what is helping me so much, hearing people who understand what I am going through and not making dumb comments that actually end up hurting me more. Just knowing that other people care and that I shouldn't be ashamed of what I feel is so important. I am SO sorry for you and feel your pain. NO one can replace your dog.

 

[Moonmom]

Hi,

For anyone still following, we had to put Lucky to sleep today. He was just declining and we and the doctor felt it was cruel to keep him alive for our own sake. It was the hardest thing we've ever done. We got home to no dog and just started crying. My dad went around the house throwing out all his things, but I want to keep some of them. I am going to miss him so much. Any way to ease the pain? Thanks

When my DD was about 5; she met and fell instantly in love with our neighbor's puppy... a beagle coincidently named "Lucky." At the time I was actually a bit intimindated by dogs..and the care they took..and so we became his "second family." We'd go over and get him and brinig to our house whenever the urge struck while the neighbors were a work.or take him for a walk, (we'd call to let them know so they didn't have to come home for doggy duty)..we'd take care of him while they traveled. Because of Lucky we all knew that "yes..we wanted a dog." Years later we adopted our own first dog..then another senior that we fell in love with. The "senior" had to PTS first...cancer..then 4 years later our other dog. He was my "heart dog"..3 weeks from the first day he cried didn't want to stand and we knew we had to let him go. I carried photos of both "boys" in my wallet..and on the back I'd written a quote I'd seen somewhere that helped each time I read it. It's:
I sent you on a journey to a land free from pain;
Not because I did not love you,
But because I loved you too much to make you stay.

Honestly..the first few days..the first couple of weeks were the hardest..coming home to a quiet house..not seeing the water dish there..not hearing the jingle of the tags..not getting my nose tickled in the morning by a wet dog nose.. heck..I even missed picking up all those toys all over.
But, the hurt was too much.. I told DH..(and DD who'd by now moved out on her own) that I couldn't take the pain of losing another..besides..no other dog could be like him..or like our senior that we'd had only a short 2 years.

But..six weeks after I went to our breed rescue at one of their "meets"...and there was this female dog there....totally different in color..size..she was shy instead of outgoing...and she kept leaning on me...and looking up at me so trustingly.

There were a few times over the next month or two that I got frustrated with my new girl..and even second guessed if I'd made the right decision. It wasn't that I wanted to send her back...I think I was comparing her too much..not letting her be HER..and not the "boys" I had. Once I learned to let her be HER ..and let myself start to like..then love her I realized that while I'll always love and remember "the boys" that they'll always be at least one more that will need me..and I'll need and love them.

Your dad is hurt and upset that his friend has had to leave his life... throwing out Lucky's things is his way trying to get rid of any reminders. For alot of us; those collars; tags; blankets; stuffies; etc..bring comfort.

Time...it takes time...and acceptance.

 

[luvwinnie]

When my DD was about 5; she met and fell instantly in love with our neighbor's puppy... a beagle coincidently named "Lucky." At the time I was actually a bit intimindated by dogs..and the care they took..and so we became his "second family." We'd go over and get him and brinig to our house whenever the urge struck while the neighbors were a work.or take him for a walk, (we'd call to let them know so they didn't have to come home for doggy duty)..we'd take care of him while they traveled. Because of Lucky we all knew that "yes..we wanted a dog." Years later we adopted our own first dog..then another senior that we fell in love with. The "senior" had to PTS first...cancer..then 4 years later our other dog. He was my "heart dog"..3 weeks from the first day he cried didn't want to stand and we knew we had to let him go. I carried photos of both "boys" in my wallet..and on the back I'd written a quote I'd seen somewhere that helped each time I read it. It's:
I sent you on a journey to a land free from pain;
Not because I did not love you,
But because I loved you too much to make you stay.

Honestly..the first few days..the first couple of weeks were the hardest..coming home to a quiet house..not seeing the water dish there..not hearing the jingle of the tags..not getting my nose tickled in the morning by a wet dog nose.. heck..I even missed picking up all those toys all over.
But, the hurt was too much.. I told DH..(and DD who'd by now moved out on her own) that I couldn't take the pain of losing another..besides..no other dog could be like him..or like our senior that we'd had only a short 2 years.

But..six weeks after I went to our breed rescue at one of their "meets"...and there was this female dog there....totally different in color..size..she was shy instead of outgoing...and she kept leaning on me...and looking up at me so trustingly.

There were a few times over the next month or two that I got frustrated with my new girl..and even second guessed if I'd made the right decision. It wasn't that I wanted to send her back...I think I was comparing her too much..not letting her be HER..and not the "boys" I had. Once I learned to let her be HER ..and let myself start to like..then love her I realized that while I'll always love and remember "the boys" that they'll always be at least one more that will need me..and I'll need and love them.

Your dad is hurt and upset that his friend has had to leave his life... throwing out Lucky's things is his way trying to get rid of any reminders. For alot of us; those collars; tags; blankets; stuffies; etc..bring comfort.

Time...it takes time...and acceptance.

Wow, your post really hit home. The day we had to end our Winnie's suffering almost 7 weeks ago DH and I said we were NEVER getting another dog, we could NOT take that kind of devastation again...then we realized we couldn't take the quietness of the house...the lack of "doggy activities"...as our vet said "I know you two. Your life will not be complete without a dog." I consider it a tribute to the love and joy we shared with Winnie that we are willing to go through the pain of that loss again in order to experience that bulldog LOVE again...we are adopting a 4 yr old bulldog BOY in a couple of weeks. No one can ever replace our girl, we know that...and I know we cannot compare the two, we have to just let him be him.

Disney Tones, I am SO sorry for your loss. As others have said, just let yourself GRIEVE...do not hide from it. I hope you find peace in remember all the love the two of you shared.

 

[DisneyTones913]

Thank you all for your supportive replies. I really appreciate everyone. It is so hard to go home to no dog and it hit me at the strangest times. Thank you all so much for helping me through this. I dont think we want another dog, but I dont know how to fill that void, or if i want to. Thanks to everyone though. I really appreciate it all.

 

[LuvOrlando]

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