Holly,

Wrigley had one round of Doxorubicin- we were alternating Carboplatin and Doxorubicin. I too read about the "leaking"  and side effects and asked my oncologist a million questions.  She put my mind at ease by assuring me that 2 nurses would be with Wrigley during the entire time of the administration of this agent- one adminsters, one holds her down. She would be monitored at all times, not once would she be left alone- that made me feel better. She said she has never had an incident of this happening.

As far as the heart- Wrigley is a Shepherd mix ( most likely with Australian Cattle Dog) and because these breeds are not ususally prone to heart problems, the oncloogist did not feel this would be a great risk. We were offered the heart ultrasound if it would make us feel better, but did not do it since the vet did not really feel is was necessary.

As far as the other side effects- Wrigley did seem to pant a bit more on the Doxo than the Carbo ( I thought, my husband didn't really think so ).She vomited her breakfast and dinner on day 10 - and she had mile diarhea on day 4/5 after treatment. Those were really the only side effects.

She was due to have another 2 rounds of each of the drugs, but we have stopped chemo treatments because prior to her third round they did find lung mets. So we are living one day at a time for now.

Good luck to you- try not to worry.

We wish you all the best.

Seanne and Wrigley