First, I would like to say I am very sorry about the diagnosis of cancer in your dog.Don wrote:Just found out that my 13yr old dalmation has cancer. Over the last few months she has developed lumps (from BB size to the size of a pea) all over her skin - Not just a few lumps - 100's
The vet said that it is a cancer after taking samples for a biopsy. (a Sarcoma) She is still a very happy dog - I was wondering if anyone here has any suggestions on treatment or the lack of since the dog is so old.
Thanks
I have lost 3 dogs to cancer, the most recent was my Jezebel this past September. She was almost 13. My personal feeling is that you have to be totally honest with yourself when receiving such a diagnosis, and even moreso, when from what you have described, that the cancer is extensive.
In Jezzy's case, the cancer was extensive, and I opted not to do anything other than let her play out the days she had left, while she still had quality. There was nothing I could do to save her, and at her age I wasn't going to put her through treatments that were only going to make her miserable, or try some "hokey-pokey" stuff, when I would only be kidding myself.
The best advice I have for you is to enjoy each and every quality day you have left with your dog, rather than focus on "when," so you don't cheat yourself or your dog out of enjoying these good days. Do special things together, and take lots of pics...you will be glad you did. Move up any special celebrations you have had in the past, such as a Birthday, etc., while she's still happy, has quality, and you both will be able to enjoy them together...dates don't matter. I moved up Christmas for both my girls I had to PTS this past September and October....I am very glad I did.