On 6/18/2008
hippo wrote:
Our 11 yr-old Chihuahua-Terrier mix have been having problem urinating for some months now and is now suspected to have bladder cancer, although the results from biopsy done so far is inconclusive. All we know from the ultrasound and x-ray is that his bladder is 3/4 filled with some form of tissue mass. Our vet had given him Piroxicam for 2 weeks, and it seems to have ruined his appetite to the point that he refused to eat and appeared to be collapsing. The bleeding did stop for a while, but without the Piroxicam, it has come back. We have also changed his diet to a CD diet in case it is some of crystal growth. But the bleeding continues and it hurts to see him trying to squeeze out a few drops of blood every now and then. Our vet suggested surgery next to take a more comprehensive biopsy (or remove the crystals if indeed true). We have scheduled the surgery right after July4, but I am so worried to lose him right there on the operating table. Are we doing the right thing? Any suggestions? Thanks.
Dear Hippo, My experience was very good in having the surgery. Chelsea (Shelties) is 12.5 years old and weighs 10 lbs. She came through just fine and within a few days was better than before the surgery. They took 60% of her bladder in May and she is almost back to normal in urination. They said 4 months is the usual time, though. The first chemo treatment was hard on her but the Dr's will lower the dosage or discontinue. If surgery is possible, I definetely recommend it (again, this is based on my own experience), because surgery was an option for me, (although it took 3 months for me to decide). I wish you the very best. Carol