Maggie had her first vinblastine treatment on Tuesday.  I waited an extra week to start chemo because she didn't seem recovered from the amputation and I didn't want to make it worse with more chemicals.  On Monday she seemed more like her self so we decided to move forward with treatment.  I was really worried - she was just acting like she felt better and then I added chemo to the picture.  Fortunately, she is doing ok so far.  No major side effects.  The oncologist has her on Benedryl, Pepcid and prednisone, which I hate.  My first lab had major issues with prednisone and I swore I would never give it to one of my dogs again.  I have been frantically scouring the internet for more natural anti-inflammatories so I don't have to continue to give her the prednisone.  It makes Maggie wound up and crazy, not to mention starving and thirsty.  She needs to lose weight because of the amputation so all this begging at the table is not helpful.  On Wednesday we saw a PT.  He gave me some exercises for Maggie to do at home to help with core muscle strength as well as stretches to help loosen the muscles in her shoulder and wrist of the remaining leg that are taking a beating from trying to bear all the weight of her body on its own.  I feel so fortunate that I live in a place where oncologists and animal PTs are available.  I know many do not have those options.  I transitioned her to a grain-free food before we started chemo and I have been adding a little extra people food - ground beef or chicken, cottage cheese, liver.  Again not helping with the weight loss, but I feel like I need to help her be as strong as possible during chemo.  After we're done with that, I can think about losing weight.  She's getting around ok, except for going upstairs to the second floor of our house.  She is back to riding in the car with us and she can go on short walks. On the down side, I have had four lumps aspirated since the surgery.  Three have been fatty cysts and one is suspicious - the needle aspirate showed fatty cells and inflammation.  The oncologist said it could be another mast cell but it might be a reaction to the sutures from the surgery so we are waiting and watching.  Each lump gives me serious stress.  I am working hard to stay upbeat and treasure every day we have with her. 

She must have sensed that I was typing about her - she just plopped herself at my feet!    She has been my shadow since the surgery.  It kind of bugs my hubby, actually, that she won't go anywhere without me.  It's an extra burden on me to have to do everything, but I am so thrilled she's still alive that it is a joy to care for her.  I guess she's trying to tell me it's time for some belly rubs before bed! 

Good-night all!

Kim and Maggie