Corneal ulcer and general thoughts on a long term cancer surving dog. (long)

Basenji Health Issues & Questions
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  • L

    So, the treatments for the Lymph nodes worked mostly. Reduced most of their swelling (except one that's always been the worst) and kept it stable. But, when we went in for the last dose of Chemo and they did an ultrasound about 2 weeks ago, they found another type of cancer was in her spleen. At this point, we are pretty much out of reasonable options and she has actually been declining in the last 7-10 days. I guess three different kinds of cancer was just too much!

    At this point we are just trying to keep her eating. Her staple of grilled chicken that we could always go to stopped working. She will pretty much only eat steak, pork and treats right now. Going to try Baby Food, but we have tried some stuff from Honest Kitchen that others have said worked great as well as Raw Goats milk and some kind of Fish liquid that was truly gross and she does not want. Just trying to decide the right time for her, but she still seems to be in decent shape when she looks at you and can walk around fine. Lots of cuddles and belly rubs, which she will always roll over for. We had some family over this past weekend and she got tired of being petted.

    Roo, Lion and Tigger

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  • eeeefarmE

    It's so tough when you try hard and just keep getting bad news. My thoughts are with you.

    "In order to get along with a Basenji, you have to be at least half as smart as the dog!"

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  • agilebasenjiA

    It's so hard when things get to this point. Just keep spoiling and loving her and realize you're doing all you can

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  • DebraDownSouthD

    Not the news one hopes for. I am sorry.

    Debra

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  • L

    Well, looks like based on the last couple of nights. Its time for the poor girl. Still amazed at how lucky we are compared to many others with dogs that have cancer. Nearly 6 years from the initial diagnosis and surgery. Multiple relapses and being able to knock it back, all while most people would never have a clue there was anything wrong with her. (can't tell you how many people would ask how old she was and be surprised she was not a young dog, some even thought she was a puppy though they were probably not familiar with Basenjis)

    When I started this thread, I thought she was a week or two from death and we got almost another year and a half. Again, while she still seemed in great shape.

    But, the last three weeks have not been that good to her, especially the past weekend. I am taking her by the Vet School for them to have some time with her and this afternoon, she has her final car trip.

    Roo, Lion and Tigger

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  • tanzaT

    So Sorry to hear…. God Speed little one... there are many that will welcome you to the bridge

    Pat Fragassi

    Tanza Basenjis

    www.tanzabasenjis.net

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  • O

    I'm terribly sorry to hear this.. but I'm glad you had the extra time with her. Every minute counts with a beloved dog, and she will always hold that special place in your heart. Run free, brave girl!

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  • agilebasenjiA

    I am sorry and sometimes the right thing to do is so difficult. You will be in my thoughts.

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  • eeeefarmE

    Very sorry. Always a tough call, even when it is an obvious one. You never want to let them go…..

    "In order to get along with a Basenji, you have to be at least half as smart as the dog!"

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  • DebraDownSouthD

    I am so sorry. :(

    Debra

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  • Chealsie508C

    Ugh, so tough every time I come across a post like this– it is heart wrenching. For all the extra time you got with her, good for you both. For all the care you gave her that allowed her health to remain as stable as it has, good for you both. Deciding the right time for her will be good for you both. It certainly has been a long journey and I am sure you will treasure the memories and take comfort in knowing that the life she lived was probably better than anyone else could've given her. So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

    "I know I've found the breed for me because he totally turns my life upside down and I love it!"

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  • L

    Thanks for your thoughts, everyone.

    Been a tough week for sure, but looking back, it was definitely time. As my wife said, until we can find a way to make Vampire dogs that live forever, we have to deal with this if we want the good times.

    Roo, Lion and Tigger

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  • Buddys PalB
    First Basenji's

    Just read this entire thread and my goodness!!!! What a wonderful load of memories you'll have of her, what a trooper! No words for feelings at this time, just prayers and time for your healing. But what a gal! indeed!

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