Hi jetred,
From your post a year ago… this is exactly the type of information I'm searching for, "I know this might not be survivable for her but I can't find any advice on how to get a dog through cancer, what to look out for, when is she truly in pain, what spindle cell does over time and when is enough for her and time to set her free."
So I am wondering, what was your plan with Luna? How did you make decisions? What information did you learn that you think is important to know about the spindle cell cancer disease process?
I have a 15 yr old girl (aussie shepard mix) who is in good spirits, enjoys slow short walks, putting her nose in the wind, eating, etc all normally. We've had two surgeries already to debulk the tumor on her rear leg. One in 2013, and the second recently in June from which she recovered well for her age. Though it returned quickly (3 mos) and larger this time. It's now an open lesion. I am both astounded and perplexed at how she acts pretty normal given this! My vet (who is a new vet to us as I just moved) initially discussed end of life decisions and then also offered amputation as an option to consider. I would so appreciate any thoughts you have and/or hear more about your story.
Thank you.
Baron's lump
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Have you talked with the vet about his symptoms? I know of a few basenjis that have had antagonistic reactions to some pain meds. Meaning instead of helping it makes them jittery and uncomfortable. They may whine, shift positions like they can't get comfortable, seem over sensitive to touch, etc.
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Have you talked with the vet about his symptoms?
If it continues I will but I think his discomfort may be due to having stiches in both his right leg and his left side and just not being able to find a comfortable position. He has a thick pad to lay on but he really preferred the sofa.
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Wow, I really hope everything goes well. Stay positive and give lots of hugs and belly rubs! Sending you well wishes!
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Bless his little heart, he's such a trooper! Keep us posted on his progress and healing. I'm keeping you in my prayers about his results… You are such a wonderful mom!!!
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poor guy. i'm sure he'll be feeling better soon.
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If it continues I will but I think his discomfort may be due to having stiches in both his right leg and his left side and just not being able to find a comfortable position. He has a thick pad to lay on but he really preferred the sofa.
How about trying some memory foam like they sell in Sam's club. There are pillows and bed toppers available.
Jason
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More prayers and hugs going your way.
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Baron has been a very good boy this week, being quiet and calm in the puppy pen, but unfortunately his sutures did not hold. They started splitting last night and by today there was a big, gaping hole (again). So back to the vet we went. Since it is obvious that sutures are of no use we're going to try keeping it clean and covered in hopes that, over time, the skin will grow back together. This process could take weeks if not months.
Baron was still knocked out when I picked him up and I was a bit shocked to find that the vet stapled the bandaging onto his skin! :eek: I take him back Monday to change the bandage. I am unsure if the new bandage will be stapled on or what but it makes me queasy just thinking about it.
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Robyn,
Staples are the best way to keep the bandaging in place in a location where there is motion. The only other way is super glue, but it doesn't work nearly as well where there is hair, so…. I know it seems gross, but keeping it clean and covered is so crucial, because of the infection risk. Believe me, infection would be far grosser than the staples.
Hang in there, girl! Make sure he's getting lots of love and goodies with his sedatives. We will be thinking of you both.
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Robyn,
How is Baron doing? I hope all is going well.Pat
