I just recently found out that one of my dogs (I have two Doberman's - mother and son) has terminal bone cancer - a tumor has been located in his rear leg. It's been identified as Osteosarcoma and there's not cure. This is the son who just turned 8. His mother is a healthy 12! This is a very fast growing cancer and by the time it's identified, it's too late to stop it.

Today (3/30) they are going to do an ultrasound to see if he has any tumors in his abdomen. If so, then there's nothing they can do as it's progressed too far - meaning he may only have a few weeks left. We're obvioulsy praying that the ultrasound is clear.

If not, then they will take his leg to slow down the disease and stop the pain. While it will not let him live his normal life expectancy, it will get him out of pain (he can't walk on the leg now). Then we'll just make him as comfortable and happy for the rest of his days.

This is really killing me as I raised him literally from birth. Those of you who have dogs know what I mean when I say "he's my baby". I have to do everything I can to make him pain-free.

If all goes well (as well as it can under the circumstances) then I can bring him home Friday. I haven't had a chance to pull the vette out from the winter storage, but I hope to this weekend. He loved riding in it with me with the top off! I want to do that again with him before he leaves me.

So - if you know any prayers - special dances - chants - anything - it'd mean a lot to us!

If all goes well, I promise to post his picture in the vette!

Thanks...

That's always a rough deal to lose a dog. Lost my German Shepherd on Christmas eve a couple years ago after a long illness. I haven't been able to bring myself to get another dog since then, you just get too attached to the little beggars. Enjoy the rest of the time you have with yours, I feel your pain and wish you only the best.

Eric, I truly understand. Our Miniture Collie was going down hill for about 9 months. The vet said she had "Old dog illness". It just means she was wore out. She would tremble and shake, and could not walk at times. The next day she was fair, then back again. We had her 14 years, from 6 weeks old. During the last trip to the vet she died in the front seat of the car with her head on my lap. That was two years ago.

I truly hope it goes as well as possible.

Ken Styer

Sorry to hear what you are going through. We have two dogs, and my wife is a Veterinarian. So our animals are very inportant in our house. I can't imagine losing one. Keep us updated and good luck.

I JUST GOT THE SAME KIND OF NEWS ABOUT MY DUMB OLD GARAGE CAT ITS NOT EASY I HOPE ALL WORKS OUT FOR THE BEST

Eric,
Sorry to hear about this. I'll be chanting for you.
Glenn

Thanks for the very kind thoughts/words. Got a little good news - the ultrasound is clear meaning the cancer hasn't spread.

So now they're going to go ahead with the amputation. Just need to get through the surgery now. If all goes well, then he can come home end of the week.

The Dr still wants us to consider chemo, but I just don't think it's worth putting him through that. Anyone else ever have or know of dog/cat that went through chemo? Thoughts?

Eric, my deepest condolences. I hope for the best my friend, for you and for the dog.

Scot
chants, ritual sock sacrifices and everything possible!

Couldn't think of anything to say earlier, what can be said. My wife and I love dogs, we have 5, rangeing from 4 years to 14 years. The oldest one is quite often on our minds as he's getting on up there. Good news on the cancer not spreading. It's amazing how these 4 legged critters can get about on 3 legs. In time he won't know it's even missing! My littlest sometimes tucks her leg up( nothing wrong that we can find) and runs around on 3, doesn't slow her down at all! Our thoughts will be with you and the pup. This is probably hardest on you and I bet the mama dog knows somethings up, too. Hope all goes well. Mike

Wife and I are sorry you had to receive such horrible news. We have no pets,but for us it was a loved one. Take lots of pictures, camcorder if possible, to keep. Even in their emaciated state, is was comforting looking at these later. I know, seems odd, don't it, but it helped.

JR - Miramar,FL