Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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We have had our Oncology consult post op for what turned out to be a much larger and higher grade STS (nerve sheath tumor) than anyone had hoped for or anticipated. Also some poor margins and metastasis to a lymph node that was basically destroyed. High likelihood of recurrence - really a matter of when rather than if.
We are starting in home chemo - this seems like a no brainer. Going to make Golden Paste using turmeric. Looking at diet changes.
But I feel like reading between the lines, radiation offers the best possible targeted destruction of a good number of the remaining cells. Still a gamble, but I feel like the oncologist would do it for his dog.
Struggling with trying to figure out what we might gain for the investment, but even more so for the risk of 18 to 22 more times he has to go through GA and being away from home (which he hates). He is so happy right now.
If anyone has done a series of low dose targeted radiation as part of oncology plan post amputation, I would love to hear about it.
Lisa (and Pofi dog)
Lisa, Minneapolis
On October 27, 2016, nearly 6 months after amputation, and 18 months since his cancer likely started, we lost Pofi to a recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in his spine quite suddenly. His canine sister also succumbed to cancer on March 1, 2019 - we lavished her with our love in the interim, but life was never quite the same without her only real canine friend. Cliff kitty had to leave us, too, suddenly, in August 2019. Lucia kitty grieved all these losses, but helped us welcome two new Lurchers into our home and our lives, Shae and Barley.
Not the news you want to hear, but you are doing your research and developing a treatment plan! As you already know, every dog.is different and no dog has a timeframe stamped.on his butt!
I don't.jave.to much "specific" insight into Pofi's situation, but I can offer you this. When the Pathology report came.back for my Happy Hannah it referenced that their was no lymph node tissue to test. The Surgeon subsequently said that it was so bad it was basically destroyed. It went from tissue was submitted to saying it mist have disintegrated "somehow" because it was so bad. Don't even get me started.on this whole fiasco! Anyway, they told.me her prognosis was "poor" as a result of the lymph.node.involvement....even though there was none presented to the Pathologist!!
Anyway, I proceeded sith four rounds of Carboplatin (osteosarcoma) for her and got THE most glorious extended time.of over one year.and two months!!
The only other observation I'll make is, some on the site.opted NOT to do the radiation for the.exact reason you mentioned. It requires a HUGE amount of time at the Vet and being away from home. And they felt whatever.the trade off might be on days on a calendar, it wasn't worth it. Now, I'm CERTAINLY no vet and your scenario may be an entirely different.one than what I was referencing, okay?
Hopefully others who did go that route can chime in with their experiences.
You clearly have Pofi's well being.in mind! Like you've always done everyday on this journey, you will make every decision out of love and that will always be the right decision!
THE VERY BEST PART.OF YIUR POST IS THAT POFI IS FEELING FANTASTIC AND IS THOROUGHLY ENJOYING LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST!!
You keep on keeping on Ppfi! We're all cheering madly for you! And we MUST see more photos! Your avatar picture is precious!
Love.and hugs!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Lisa I'm sorry about the news that came back, that's tough. But remember, Pofi is HOPPY right now, and just wants you to be too.
Lots of members have utilized radiation therapy here. If it is an option for you, has your vet discussed stereotactic radiation therapy as a possible option? It's more intense radiation but more targeted and fewer sessions are needed. It's not available at too many places but I believe the University of GA has this technology.
What it comes down to is that you have to make a decision that you can live with, while keeping Pofi as hoppy as possible. It's a fine line to walk, but listen to your heart and know that when it comes to cancer, it's all about quality of life.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
jerry said
Lisa I'm sorry about the news that came back, that's tough. But remember, Pofi is HOPPY right now, and just wants you to be too.Lots of members have utilized radiation therapy here. If it is an option for you, has your vet discussed stereotactic radiation therapy as a possible option? It's more intense radiation but more targeted and fewer sessions are needed. It's not available at too many places but I believe the University of GA has this technology.
What it comes down to is that you have to make a decision that you can live with, while keeping Pofi as hoppy as possible. It's a fine line to walk, but listen to your heart and know that when it comes to cancer, it's all about quality of life.
I will inquire on stereotactic at U of MN. Thank you!
Lisa
Lisa, Minneapolis
On October 27, 2016, nearly 6 months after amputation, and 18 months since his cancer likely started, we lost Pofi to a recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in his spine quite suddenly. His canine sister also succumbed to cancer on March 1, 2019 - we lavished her with our love in the interim, but life was never quite the same without her only real canine friend. Cliff kitty had to leave us, too, suddenly, in August 2019. Lucia kitty grieved all these losses, but helped us welcome two new Lurchers into our home and our lives, Shae and Barley.
Oh I thought you were in Georgia. Duh. UNM might have it, great school!
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
jerry said
Oh I thought you were in Georgia. Duh. UNM might have it, great school!
🙂
No problem.
Lisa, Minneapolis
On October 27, 2016, nearly 6 months after amputation, and 18 months since his cancer likely started, we lost Pofi to a recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in his spine quite suddenly. His canine sister also succumbed to cancer on March 1, 2019 - we lavished her with our love in the interim, but life was never quite the same without her only real canine friend. Cliff kitty had to leave us, too, suddenly, in August 2019. Lucia kitty grieved all these losses, but helped us welcome two new Lurchers into our home and our lives, Shae and Barley.
Pofi on Madeline Island in September, 2015
Lisa, Minneapolis
On October 27, 2016, nearly 6 months after amputation, and 18 months since his cancer likely started, we lost Pofi to a recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma in his spine quite suddenly. His canine sister also succumbed to cancer on March 1, 2019 - we lavished her with our love in the interim, but life was never quite the same without her only real canine friend. Cliff kitty had to leave us, too, suddenly, in August 2019. Lucia kitty grieved all these losses, but helped us welcome two new Lurchers into our home and our lives, Shae and Barley.
Okay, I was already in lpve just from the.avatar picture. Now my heart is melting too! What an ADORABLE pup!
Truly a srunning dog! Because of Pofi's Hollywood good looks, he has already gained Rock Star status
Glad you're gonna follow up on the targeted form of radiation Jerry mentioned. That, or maybe even something better, may be offered by UNM.
So glad you were able to post photos (took me months)! Keep 'em coming!
Hugs to all!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
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