Pet Cancer

My 11 year old dog was just diagnosed with osteosarcoma.  The tumor is in his shoulder and is rather large.  My vet told me yesterday (5-8) to take him home for the weekend and enjoy the heck out of him.  He has a week, maybe 2.  He has Rimadyl & Tramadol for pain.  He can still walk, but with a limp. 

 How do I know when it's time to let him go?  I'm devastated in that my mom just passed away 2 months ago and now this.  My buddy has been with me through so much, including a divorce.  And now I'm going to lose him, too. 

 Mary

My dog had a tumor in his pelvis, we opted for surgery and it was taken out. The vet estimated 2 to 3 months without radiation and chemo.

My wife nixed the radiation route and we decided to just give him a steroid, prednisone to control the swelling. He lasted almost a year on the steroid. You might want to try it.

Your heart will tell you when it is time.  I will always remember what a friend told me when I had to put my cat to sleep many years ago- "animals don't fear death-they only fear pain and suffering".  Your dog knows what a good "mom" you have been and you will do what is best for him.

Bless you both.

Kathy

Thank you, Kathy, for your kind words.  I have decided to leave it up to my best buddy -- he'll know when he's ready to move on.  I can manage the pain with medication.  I have added prednisone to his routine.  He went swimming today and spent the day outdoors.  He gets ice cream for dessert tonight.  He was a gift to me and he indeed will let me know.  With my mom passing away 2 months ago, I know she's in heaven waiting for him to join her.  She loved him too.  While I know it will be extremely hard on me, Mishbah will give me the sign and strength when it's his time.  He will not have pain and he will not suffer. 

Thank you again for responding.  It meant so much.

Mary & Mishbah