Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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Hi all,
First off, thank you for this amazing site... We are not alone in our questions and worries and I am so grateful for all of your stories and kind words in support of each other.
Samdog is a 10yr old Golden. A week ago we noticed a limp - 10 days of rimadyl and no improvement. Friday afternoon we got his front right shoulder x-rayed and we found a mass. Valley Fever (fungal infection) is common here, so we immeadiately drew blood for that test and will get those results on Monday.
However, our vet was "real" with us and advised us to prepare for the worst, Bone Cancer, with a suggested treatment of amputation followed by chemo. (thank god for tripawd.com) Here is my question... time is of the essence, we are already stuck waiting a whole weekend for the Valley Fever results, is it worth the time to do the bone biopsy before we take the leg or let the pathologists do their thing once the amputation is complete? How sure can we be that it is cancer from an x-ray? How long should we expect to wait for the biopsy results?
It is so hard to come up with a game plan when we have so little information, so I'm running all my options and will go into the conversation monday armed with as many "if / then" plans as possible.
Thank you.
Samdog's mom
Samdog was a 10 yr old Golden and retired SAR dog. We found a bone mass on 8/17/12, needle biopsy showed sarcoma 8/22/12, amputation on 8/23/12, post-amp biopsy confirmed osteosarcoma on 8/28/12. Sadly, we found lung mets on 11/27/12 and my Spirit Sam earned his wings on 12/2/12.
We didn't know where we were headed and we don't regret a single step along our path. It all happened too fast, but he left a legacy of love that we will always cherish. Good bye my heart.
You can find our story at http://samdog.t.....ipawds.com
Hi Samdog's Mom, welcome. We're glad you found us, but of course just so sorry you find yourself in this situation. It's a tough place to be, and it can make you worried sick, but if you approach it methodically, investigate all of your options and ask a million questions, you'll get through it a little saner.
I do hope it's something like Valley Fever. I know a lot of vets mention that this can be a possibility where it's prevalent, so I hope that's the case. If it's not, if it is cancer, then what you need to do is ask yourself this: will the results of a bone biopsy change whether or not you amputate the leg and what treatment you decide to pursue?
With many tumors, x-rays are enough to at least know that a tumor is a cancerous invasion. Usually bone biopsies are done when the results of a needle biopsy are inconclusive. If it's already pretty certain that you're dealing with some kind of cancer, and that the leg must come off regardless, then most folks here have said they would not do the bone biopsy again. It's a terribly painful procedure that necessitates additional anesthesia/surgery and recovery time. And your vet will probably also tell you that there is a slight risk of the bone fracturing too. That's the downside. If, however, you're not sure what kind of cancer and you want to be certain about the best kind of treatment to pursue, a bone biopsy is worthwhile.
I let the pathologists do their thing after my surgery, and it took about a week for them to grade it and confirm it was osteosarcoma that I had.
Try to stay calm. I know it's hard, and it stinks waiting for the lab results. Many of us here have had the breakneck experience of going from diagnosis to amputation within a few days, so we know what you're feeling. We're here to help however we can.
That pic of Sam is gorgeous, was that taken in the Rockies?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi. So sorry you have found yourself in need of this site, but it really is a wonderful group of people who have a wealth of experience with this mess.
Our vet suspected Osteosarcoma the day of x-rays, however he suggested a bone biopsy and offered to do it that day. With no time to research, we agreed and they did it immediately. Zeus was in SO much pain after the biopsy - he cried all night and was miserable for an entire week until the results came back (it confirmed cancer but unable to pinpoint the kind or stage) and we amputated immediately. We ended up sending the leg in for another biopsy to confirm the type (it was OSA) and stage so we would know which chemo protocol to use. It's my understanding that OSA has a pretty distinctive pattern on the films. I assume a lot of vets want the biopsy for peace of mind and as a CYA since we do live in a very litigious society. In hindsight I would not have the biopsy done and would have just sent in the leg after amp. But every story is different, and if your vet is unsure it may be worthwhile for you.
I know your head is spinning right now, but take a few minutes to breathe. The only decision you really have to make now is whether to biopsy and amputate. Then, once your pup has recovered you can start to navigate the rest of the journey such as chemo decisions. I really am sorry that you are facing this battle. Most of us have been there, and we remember the feelings well. Please keep us posted.
Zeus was a Husky mix diagnosed with Osteosarcoma at age 11. A visible lung met and suspicious spot on his liver meant a poor prognosis-six weeks was our vet's best guess. We decided to fight for our boy and his right front leg was amputated on 12/1/11. We did six rounds of chemo, changed his diet and spoiled him completely rotten. We were blessed with 10 great months after diagnosis. Against the odds, the lung met remained a single met and grew very little over those months. A wonderful furbaby with the most gentle spirit, he fought with a strength that we never imagined he possessed. We have no regrets...
http://zeuspod......pawds.com/
Welcome to Tripawds. I'm sorry you have found yourself here, but as you have seen this is a knowledgeable and supportive community.
I don't have personal experience with bone biopsies, Tri-pug Maggie had mast cell cancer. I do know that several people here have said that they wish they hadn't done the bone biopsy, but in all those cases the diagnosis was pretty clear from the X-rays. In my opinion you have to have confidence in the diagnosis to make the amputation choice.
Let us know how the vet visit goes.
Karen and the pugapalooza
With Sweetpea's x ray - they did valley fever, checked for bone infection and I asked for the bone biopsy at the same time. The vet said I am 99% sure it's osteomyelitis, because she had hardware at that site from 5 yrs ago, but I went with my gut. We got the results for the valley fever first (couple of days), next day the culture and all were negative and then I knew it was coming back cancer, chest x ray next day and then her surgery the day after. Sweetpea did good after her biospsy, they even took her hardware out, because they were convinced it was the issue and we did her amputation 9 days after her first surgery. I suggest to research what you can, but most importantly take a break from thinking (I know it's hard) and wait for the results - we are all praying it is valley fever (we live in phoenix and have it here also). Then after that comes back, you can talk to your significant other, vet and of course Samdog:) Healing prayers and thoughts coming to Samdog!!!
So, we took all y'all's advice and slowed down. Saturday afternoon was a long day of napping, snuggling and watching movies in bed. Sunday it was more of the same, along with reading as much of this website as possible. Even my husband is hooked to all the joyful stories that are based in reality here.
We knew we would have news today. The news was not what we were hoping for. The valley fever tests came back negative. I think in our hearts we knew that it would. So, after calling every veternary oncologist in the state of arizona (and parts of colorado) we have our first oncology consult tomorrow morning. Another day of waiting... Sam's attitude is the same as it always has been. You wouldn't even know he was sick except for the limp (which he seems to be able to turn on and off at will) which gives us hope that we got it early. He is tolerating the tramedol just fine, though I don't like the clouds in his eyes when he is doped up on it.
Game face - here we go...
Samdog was a 10 yr old Golden and retired SAR dog. We found a bone mass on 8/17/12, needle biopsy showed sarcoma 8/22/12, amputation on 8/23/12, post-amp biopsy confirmed osteosarcoma on 8/28/12. Sadly, we found lung mets on 11/27/12 and my Spirit Sam earned his wings on 12/2/12.
We didn't know where we were headed and we don't regret a single step along our path. It all happened too fast, but he left a legacy of love that we will always cherish. Good bye my heart.
You can find our story at http://samdog.t.....ipawds.com
Oh guys I am so sorry. That sinking feeling in the stomach is something many folks can relate to, it's so scary to get that news. We hope to make this next phase less scary for you all.
I used to do that on-again/off-again hop thing too when we were first trying to figure out what was going on. I thought I could fool everypawdy that way!
But, you're right: Sam doesn't know he's sick, and he doesn't care. Watch his behavior and emulate it (well, except for the barking and drooling parts!). We call this "Being More Dog." Living for the moment and not stressing about things you cannot control, namely the future or where this darn cancer will take you. Enjoy life now, because this moment is all we have.
If you want a second opinion, Colorado State University will provide one at no charge through their Argus Institute. But for now, take things one step at a time and remember that we are here to lean on when you need the support. Good luck tomorrow, let us know what you find out.
{{{{hugs}}}}
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Even when you think you are prepared the news is a shock. I expected the lump in Maggie's knee to be a mast cell tumor, she had already had one, but when the vet said amputation I was pretty stunned. I don't think I heard anything else she said that day.
I'm glad he is tolerating the tramadol- a necessary evil at this point. Maggie could not handle it at all.
Jerry is right: Be More Dog . It took me awhile to learn, but Mag finally taught me. You have to be positive and optimistic until there is a real reason not to be. You know you can deal with whatever comes your way. You look at Sam and take your cues from him- life is good as long as there is a full bowl and a warm place in the sun.
Then you drink a bottle of wine and cry in the shower by yourself 
.
Then you put your game face back on.
Karen and the pugapalooza
I'm sorry to hear that you might be dealing with cancer. I can just echo the advice above. Get a game plan together but also Be More Dog . Enjoy and truely enjoy every single moment with Samdog.
Good luck with the onco visit and please let us know how it goes.
Karen and Spirit Magnum
Magnum: 30th May 2002 to 5th May 2012. Lost her back left leg to osteosarcoma on 5th Sep 2011. Lung mets found on 20th Mar 2012 but it was bone mets in the hip that ended her brave battle. Magnum's motto - "Dream as if you'll live for ever, live as if you'll die today" (James Dean). Loyal, loving, courageous and spirited to the end. My beloved heart dog, see her memoirs from Rainbow Bridge ...... http://princess.....pawds.com/
I'm sorry you had to find us here. I know things seem overwhelming and scary at the moment, but just know that there can still be lots of good, amazing, wonderful times ahead for you and your pup.
Even through all of it - cancer, amputation, chemo, lung mets, our dog was happy pretty much the entire time and we had wonderful times together.
hang in there!
Jackie, Angel Abby's mom
Abby: Aug 1, 2009 – Jan 10, 2012. Our beautiful rescue pup lived LARGE with osteosarcoma for 15 months – half her way-too-short life. I think our "halflistic" approach (mixing traditional meds + supplements) helped her thrive. (PM me for details. I'm happy to help.) She had lung mets for over a year. They took her from us in the end, but they cannot take her spirit! She will live forever in our hearts. She loved the beach and giving kisses and going to In-N-Out for a Flying Dutchman. Tripawds blog, and a more detailed blog here. Please also check out my novel, What the Dog Ate. Now also in paperback! Purchase it at Amazon via Tripawds and help support Tripawds!
We met our oncologist today and Sam loves her. I'm pretty fond too. She gave us the news that is letting us breath again. His lungs are clear. No visible mets. She also took a needle biopsy of the tumor... she was optimistic when we picked him up she got a good sample, and at the very least - if it is valley fever this sample will tell us that with 100% certainty and we will know that tomorrow.
Meanwhile, he is scheduled to become a tripaw on Thursday. Obviously, if the biopsy comes back saying otherwise, we will reschedule or cancel - but there isn't any reason to wait after that test. We are looking at the face of the inevitable, and you guys have all helped us see if for what it really is. I'm in love with my dogs eyes, his brain and his goofy attitude - not his foot. He tells me that he isn't ready to quit, he is ready to fight.
Today we learned he is strong enough to fight.
What has three legs and is red all over? Tonight's game face is genuine. We are a happy family.
Samdog was a 10 yr old Golden and retired SAR dog. We found a bone mass on 8/17/12, needle biopsy showed sarcoma 8/22/12, amputation on 8/23/12, post-amp biopsy confirmed osteosarcoma on 8/28/12. Sadly, we found lung mets on 11/27/12 and my Spirit Sam earned his wings on 12/2/12.
We didn't know where we were headed and we don't regret a single step along our path. It all happened too fast, but he left a legacy of love that we will always cherish. Good bye my heart.
You can find our story at http://samdog.t.....ipawds.com
samdog said
I'm in love with my dogs eyes, his brain and his goofy attitude - not his foot.
Well said! I've never heard it put quite like that, it's wonderful. Becoming a Tripawd means having a "new normal" but it doesn't mean the End. Your adventures will just be different, but no less fun.
Speaking of adventures, I see he is a retired SAR dog? Cool! You'll have to tell us about that.
I hope the aspirate shows it's not cancer, but if it is, we have our paws and fingers crossed that everything goes great tomorrow.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
I'll be checking back for an update on the needle biopsy.
I hope its not cancer, but you guys sound ready to take on whatever comes your way.
Karen and the pugapalooza
Here's hoping for good news but you have a great attitude either way. As Karen said, if you need to lose it, wine and a good cry are very helpful, just do the crying in the other room...
We did a biopsy on Lupe's tumor prior to the decision to move forward with surgery. There was a thought that since her lameness came on so quickly and didn't respond to meds that it could have been a soft tissue injury but as soon as the vet went in for biopsy she found the cells were abnormal and cancer was suspected right away.
Please keep us posted on how things turn out...this site is amazing with people who will help you smile, cry and give you all the support and information at their fingertips.
-Kori & Angel Lupe
Diagnosed with possible synovial cell sarcoma of right front elbow 5/31/12. Amputation surgery performed 6/7/12. Final diagnosis of histiocytic cell sarcoma 6/11/12. Her soul and spirit were strong, her body was not...my little girl earned her wings 6/14/12. "If there are labradoodles and goldendoodles, why can't I be a cockadoodle?"-Angel Lupe (June 28, 1997-June14, 2012) http://lupepod......pawds.com/
Well, it took all day... but we got the results back. Sarcoma, probably osteo... but they also took a little bit of his spleen which looked weird and no cancer there. His bloodwork came back "perfect" which helps inspire some optimism.
So, we are joining this fabulous community en total tomorrow. Surgery is scheduled for 8:30am... I am terrified and yet as comforted as I can be with every other test coming back clean and healthy. We are ready to fight this.
Today was another day of napping, snuggling and to top it off swimming! Sam's very favorite thing to do... it will be a while before we can get him back in the water - so we threw his float coat on him and let him go for as long as he wanted to today (followed by a bath so he smells nice for the surgeon!) Oh, and for dinner tonight... a flying dutchman from in-n-out (thanks AngelAbby for that tip!)
Send us some "pawsitive" healthy energy tomorrow morning... we can use the support.
Thanks as always,
Andy "aka Samdog's mom"
Samdog was a 10 yr old Golden and retired SAR dog. We found a bone mass on 8/17/12, needle biopsy showed sarcoma 8/22/12, amputation on 8/23/12, post-amp biopsy confirmed osteosarcoma on 8/28/12. Sadly, we found lung mets on 11/27/12 and my Spirit Sam earned his wings on 12/2/12.
We didn't know where we were headed and we don't regret a single step along our path. It all happened too fast, but he left a legacy of love that we will always cherish. Good bye my heart.
You can find our story at http://samdog.t.....ipawds.com
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