Maggie had vinblastine every other chemo treatment. Looking at my notes the only reactions she had during chemo were after the vinblastine, she tolerated the CCNU very well.
Our oncologist started with a very low dose, and increased each treatment until Mag reacted- which was nausea, and a little loose stool. Once she reacted the dose was backed off to the previous dose that she did not react too. We had Metocopramide for nausea which we used a couple of times.
Late in the chemo treatments she was having trouble with her WBC being too low for treatment, so we got several weeks behind. Mag was lethargic a lot as well- for the reasons Pam explained.
Mag was also on Pepcid daily throughout treatment which probably helped with her appetite.
As far as eating- then I could always get her to eat chicken. Now that we are having eating issues again I have found that about the only thing she will eat consistently is food in what I call chicken soup. I am boiling 1 package of chicken gizzards and hearts, 1 package chicken wings, and a bunch of baby carrots in some water until the meat falls off the bone. I am throwing away the gizzards, some of the hearts, and the skin and fat (Mag is now on a low protein diet). I chop up the chicken meat and carrots. Mag gets the clear broth, a little chicken, and some carrots with her dry food.
Caira Sue would sometimes drink tuna water.
I know how frustrating it is to see our babies not feeling good, and not wanting to eat. Have patience with Mel and keep trying different things until you find something he will eat.
Another odd thing I have found with Mag and her latest bout of not eating- I have to wash my hands before I try and feed her. She won't take food from my hand if she smells lotion, or even my other dog's food.
Karen and the pug girls