Senior Dog Health Issues - Grief, Loss
Hey everyone.
This is not a happy post, be warned. I just really wanna vent or let things out somewhere. And well, here feels like a pretty good place.
So yah, my dog, wonderful unique fella. Mix of Labrador, Dalmatian and Golden, is pretty much terminal. He's 12 years old so we (me and my parents) kinda figured he wouldn't have much longer.
It was just such a shock. We were at the vet last night, they checked him out and did an x-ray. I kinda just figured "we're in 2022, medicine has taken huuuge leaps surely they can do something to help him." And then we hear the opposite. He has arthritis, which we have known about for years. And it's like narrowing or "hugging" the nerves in his lower back. Not squashing but yah effecting them negatively. He doesn't walk well, sometimes it's like he forgets that he has hindlegs.
We have medicated him for about two years but it doesn't seem to be doing a lot lately. Sooo....we're in a predicament. The vet said they **might* be able to do surgery, which **might** help and give him more time. But his quality of life is of course also a factor.
I'd just love to get him a better ending. Like yah do a surgery which would make him better for a while. Just so he could at the very least enjoy the time he has left, walk properly for one. But we got a lot of "the odds are, chances are" etc. Surgery might not do much, then he might just have post surgery things to deal with. And at best it might only buy him a year.
Ahh man.......soooo we are like.....get him some more time. But what kind of time would that be, more discomfort?? Or maybe, put him to rest within 10 days or so. He's my first dog that I practically grew up with, so yah......this sucks! 😢😢😢
We don't really know what to do. Of course we don't want him to suffer, or get worse. But I don't want him to have a bad ending where he struggles to walk properly. I just want more time. Well who doesn't. The vet also said the kindest thing to do might be to put him to sleep.
I'm just super duper grateful I still got a cat, healthy cat. Senior cat, but at least cats typically live longer.
Anyone who has been in a similar predicament who has any insight?
Btw we live in Sweden. Soo yah treatment options, procedures etc is different from country to country. Maybe I'm silly, but feels like my dog would have more options in the US or even in the UK.
@VDarkAge Thought I'd put my reply here - hope that's ok. This reply limit they have is a pain in the butt
I had to laugh because I can imagine Truls face with finding a way to keep his cone on 😂 I'm glad its looking better and the swelling went down
You're right - we probably should just be happy that we have them as long as we do. Maybe it's because the time seems to go by so fast
Lol! Clever guy 😊 that stare you can allways feel it cant you? I mean you could be totally caught up in a book or something and you can feel those eyes on you 👀
Lmao! He was eating air? 😂 guess it's fat free lol! Aww chubby little puppy belly 😊❤️
@mytwistedsoul
Yah the reply thing is weird, also bothers me that you can't edit posts, or change the name of a thread. The name of this thread is kinda inaccurate now, but ah well.
Oh yah I don't think Truls appreciates my efforts. But hey, it's to make his darn thing better. If it heals up to some idk semi normal thing, well it would probably be easier to live with.
Time does seem to go by very fast. Truls turns 14 in March....14, like what? How did 14 years go so fast? Well they didn't but now it feels like it. I hope he gets to 20, or at least 15. 😊 But if he doesn't...well 14 years isn't to shabby either. A very affectionate cat, always amazed me how social he is and can sometimes seek out company. I've even been told that when I'm away he searches for me, hihihi. ^^ 😍
Yap animals in general have very good eyes. They can communicate so much with just a look. Cosmos has these almost dazzling eyes, sure puppies are extra cute. But his eyes are just so adorable, so soft.
I can confirm that labrador myth, he is never full. I swear he eats every meal like it's his last. It's like he thinks his siblings are here to steal his food. 😂
@VDarkAge I hear you on the editing. I think you can request to change the title. I know for awhile they were saying you could flag it as other and then put in a change that way. But you can get the leader of the community to change it. You just have to PM them. Which - idk - they make things harder than they need to be I think. Idk - I don't mean to complain it's just the changes they constantly make just add to the frustration because they don't seem to be making things all that much better 😕
Oh yeah definitely for his own good but lol - he doesn't care. Do you know how long he has to wear the cone? I guess probably until the swelling goes down? Does he have to go back for another recheck?
I hope you get alot of extra years with him. He sounds pretty cool 😊 I hear alot of people say that cats are Idk - more aloof and independent but I think it's so sweet that he looks for you when you're not home. I guess you maybe interact with them more than your parents?
He sounds so sweet! They both do honestly. Lol you better watch or Cosmos will be using those adorable soft eyes to convince you he needs more noms! 😂 They can be very very convincing 😊❤️
@mytwistedsoul Seems like it's quite complicated when it sounds like such a small simple task. Well I don't know, I'm not that active on the forums here. But being able to edit a post would be nice, a desired feature yup.
He doesn't wear the cone a lot, just a few hours everyday when the wound on his leg isn't bandaged. So it's not like he has to wear it all day or half a day. Only when the wound gets some needed air to help heal. We go to weekly vet checks now, thought I was done going to the vet but ah well. I can't tell if the swelling has gone down, but it is healing. It doesn't look as red and angry anymore.
I know right, there are so many cat stereotypes, I'd like to say my cat is the exception to many of them. A cat who seeks out company, hehe. 😊But yah he can be independent as well. He is more my cat yup, interacts with me more. My first pet ever, I got about 13-14 years ago.
The main thing to watch out for with Cosmos now is his teeth. 0.0 They aren't as small and puny as they were the first week, and he has discovered his bark. He is 10 weeks now, 11 next week. I take lots of pictures, enjoy the time he's small. Blink and poof, six months later he won't be small anymore. But I do look forward to when he's fully vaccinated. We can explore more and sign up to a puppy class. ^^
Though personally I think he's my star pupil, been doing training everyday and he's great. Well Labradors are easy to train. 😄
@VDarkAge Oh that makes sense that when it's bandaged he wouldn't have to wear the cone. You probably told me before lol. Hey if the redness is starting to ease then hopefully the swelling will start to go down now. Does he like going to the vets? Well I mean who does lol but does he mind going away?
He sounds like a wonderful day. Just chill especially from the way he handles himself getting his bandage changed and stuff
Lol he found his bark! 😂 Did it surprise him the first time? Gosh he's growing fast! Oh yeah those teeth and with being a puppy and testing everything with his mouth you're now the proud parent of a furry piranha ! Oh yeah with the shots there's so much they could possibly pick up out there when they're so little. Aww puppy class sounds like fun! I bet he'll do great!
@mytwistedsoul Does he like to go to the vet? He tolerates it. 😊He used to be quite vocal in the car like "meow, take me home!" something like that. Now he hardly make a sound. Either he knows it's not worth it, or he's more comfortable with it.
He is very good when we get there, never makes a fuss or causes any trouble. Even though we are poking a healing wound and something he doesn't like, he still tolerates it and behaves very well. Even the vet is surprised by his good manners. 😃
I don't think the bark surprised Cosmos. Seemed more like a "wow I can do that!" moment. Like discovering a superpower. 😂 Now he's 11 weeks, darn time flies. He has officially for the first time made it through an entire night. Little fluff is making progress. 😄 Piranha indeed.😂
@VDarkAge He probably realized complaining doesn't help lol. If it's the same vet he's allways gone to he could just be comfortable. And if they're gentle with him that makes a big difference too. He sounds like a true gentalman tho. I had to cut off one of the assistants at our vet once. She got short with one of the dogs because they didn't want to step up onto the adjustable table/scale things they have. *smh* that doesn't work for me. They allready don't want to be there - don't yell at my dog. It only makes it worse ya know?
Lol! Super Cosmos! 😁 now he can bark at the kitty! And you and the tv lol. Puppy barks are so cute!
Awww that's great! Made it through the whole night! Boy he is growing so fast! You've had him - 3 weeks now right? Probably closer to 4 now I guess. It doesn't seem like that long! Give him lots of hugs and squeezes to keep him small maybe he won't grow up so fast ❤️
@mytwistedsoul Now it's the same vet Truls always sees. We used to go to another clinic for 10 years, but recently we discovered one much closer to home. But he might not like this current vet because he always pokes his sensitive leg. I've never had issues that any vet or nurse was rough or just mean towards my pets. Really bad that it happened to yours. 😐Of course the pet is gonna be stressed and uncomfortable and it probably won't be a surprise if they don't cooperate. Yelling at them just makes things worse.
He doesn't bark at Truls, just everything else. He really has found his voice and uses it to reach sky high levels when he's alone for a minute or so. xD Yah we're in the process of teaching him it's alright to be on his own for a little while.
Now he makes it through all nights. 😃 What wakes him is usually a rumbling tummy, or if we have to get up early. Yes gonna give him lots of hugs! He's soo soft, like silk. I really love it when he yawns. 😍
@mytwistedsoul
Here's an update regarding Truls....all bad. The vet we saw today in a nutshell said "start thinking about the end." x.x Aka putting Truls to sleep. I'm going nuts, like seriously.....😶😑😟
Here's the thing. Truls isn't a perfect candidate, but for him surgery is an option. What is a concern is his quality of life after the surgery. He might experience discomfort, pain, stop eating and develop other issues from that. Or.....he could recover and well idk, be okay. I mean it's very difficult to say how Truls would adapt or react to loosing his hindleg.
But yes that is where we are at. The darn bump is only getting worse, it will only cause him pain and discomfort. So either we put him to sleep or surgery. I've looked around on forums, googled etc. There are senior cats who lose a leg and go on to live normal lives. If Truls gets surgery he could get several more years.
The vet also talked about how do we want his last time to be. Like it is now, he's okay ish. Or after an amputation when he could be in a lot of pain. Quality of life is a reoccurring topic.
I don't want to seem greedy either, 13 years and 10 months is a pretty good run. Of course I wanna do what is best for him.
With Ajas, surgery wasn't an option, there was to much damage in his back. Truls has the option. He might not be the best candidate for it, given his age and he's a bit skinny. But otherwise he's healthy. It really bothers me, otherwise he's healthy.....
We will get a second opinion, that never hurts.
@VDarkAge Oh man 😞 you didn't need such bad news so soon after Ajas. And there's so much to take into consideration with Truls. With his age and how he'd handle the operation and afterwards. Omg just so much to think about and worry about. I totally understand worrying about his quality of life. I mean you don't want him to suffer but at the same time but yet if there's a chance he could do ok - you have to wonder if you should take that chance ya know? I wish there was a way to just remove the bump. I would definitely look for a second opinion too. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that and maybe there's one who has more specialized treatment options?
And I mean yeah he's a senior but he's not ancient and like you said - he's healthy otherwise
*sending you all hugs*❤️
@mytwistedsoul There is indeed a lot to consider. It's after the surgery that is the biggest concern. The vet told me it's a 90min operation, give or take. I'm not very worried about Truls on anesthesia, he has done it three times before and he's been fine.
I want to fight, do whatever I can for him. At the same time we owners need to know when not to fight, when to let them go. 😕
Who knows maybe he will recover and be healthy, and a year from now he'll be just fine...minus a leg. But I also can't help but wonder, what if we do the surgery and he's just in constant pain, doesn't eat and heck idk, starves and gets sick.
We're gonna talk about it, all of us. Without this cancer he could have several more years. It bothers me that this vet I saw today would not recommend surgery. I'm just like....will other vets share the same opinion? If two doctors look at the same patient, same facts....why and/or how would they end up at two different conclusions?
I'm probably thinking to much. I'm just like, this vet said no...why would another one say yes. Bottom line is that the darn lump is getting worse, it will not get better. It has to go, with his leg, or Truls goes.
@VDarkAge Sorry for the late reply
I think maybe that's one of the hardest things because we do want to do everything we can for them. We don't want to lose them but we don't want them to suffer either. I know if I were you this would be all I could think about - its a heavy decision 😞
I hate to say this but I wonder sometimes if when they do biopsies if it aggravates things. I mean I understand why they do them it just seems like when they start poking and prodding things it sets off something that makes it worse
Just from what you've said about him here he sounds like a pretty chill cat - so he could take the surgery really well and adapt to it. And with his age it's not unheard of but oh boy I would be so torn on what to do
This doggone cancer is just ridiculous. I wish there was a cure for it because it takes so many lives and causes so much suffering
*sending you strength*
@mytwistedsoul No worries. 😊
Well today is the day. Another vet at a different hospital is gonna look at him, in six hours give or take.
Hmmm possibly. I mean when they do a biopsy, it should be in such a way so things don't get worse. Well the vet we have gone to for the past few weeks said the location of the biopsy has healed.
I just keep thinking that at this larger hospital with specialists and what not, they will be able to help him more. Heck maybe he even gets to keep his leg. He is a really great cat! 😍 Considering he's been through 3 previous surgeries, one more invasive, without any fuss. I think he's strong. But yah what owner doesn't think the best of their pet.
I have read quite a number of stories of cats around his age or cats even older, near their twenties, that have lost a limb. It's not uncommon. I just hope that if they take his leg, that he recovers well and doesn't have pain and such afterwards.
It has been on my mind a lot mhm, ish. I lost my dog of 12.5 years two months ago, now I might lose my cat of almost 14 years as well? Noooo, no thank you. 😞
Well I got Cosmos, little fella makes me smile. Even when he's a mini t-rex who wants to eat everything. 😂
Considering how long we have been fighting cancer in humans and animals, I'm surprised there still isn't a cure. I know there are many different types of cancer, but still. Hehe something more or less funny I read once. We can clone sheep but haven't cured cancer yet........???
@mytwistedsoul
.........😭
This...sucks.
Soo a short summary of today, definitive information and reasons from a specialist why we can't operate. Very long story short, his blood has bad values. No vet will operate. Today I was informed like how sick he really is. x.x I don't wanna think like this, but can't help it. What if I had seen this specialist sooner. But I just did what my local clinic said, they never advised me to call a specialist. I hate hindsight and what ifs, bleh.
Know what also bugs me, kinda silly. They shaved his beautiful fur on his tummy. x.x Lols silly I know, well need something to laugh about. For an ultrasound.
Well we are going back in a week. I got some more meds, different food. Who knows, maybe he will make a magical 180 turn and recover. I wish! Well some test results were uncertain, so we will know for sure in a week.
Now I'm hearing "k sooo, shall we get a cat after Truls?" x.x. Not really what I wanna think about, like at all. Nothing has changed, his condition is the same as yesterday and the day before. I just know in more depth how he really is. What can I say, ignorance is bliss. He's been with me half my life, ahhh man.
I'll do what I can for Truls. Though even the vet mentioned, how much should one do. Like from an ethical standpoint, what will his life be like, how will he feel etc. If he is alive but just sick or feels like crap all the time. Well that's not a good life.
Ahh man, mega ultra sigh. Two pets in three months.......this really sucks.😞
Well at least I got baby Cosmos, he's nibbling his toes as I type this so I can't help laughing a bit. Crazy pup. xD Ahh thanks little guy, for making me smile, I need it. ❤️😊
Oh gosh - yeah I hate thinking about those what ifs too. They replay through your mind so much some times. It becomes a mantra allmost - what if what if 😞
The meds and food might not be a cure all but maybe they will help alittle. Give him more time? And you. I mean - he's not suffering is he? In pain? He still eats and plays alittle? I mean - I know you don't want him to suffer but some of these vets give the feeling that if your pet is really sick you should make the decision to put them down immediately and Idk - I'm sure they mean well and don't want any suffering. Idk maybe I'm just thinking with my heart too much
I can't tell you just how badly my heart aches for you right now and I know you're doing all you can for him - it just sucks so bad 😞
*hugs to you all* ❤️ one day at a time ok?
@mytwistedsoul
They did check his blood values a month ago, around new years. They were okay then. Which is one thing that makes me go "what if I had seen this specialist a month ago" ...😕
The local vet I have been going to said it will get worse and there wasn't much they could do there. It's a smaller clinic, I don't wanna say that they are bad they have been very nice. But I kinda wish they had referred us to a larger animal hospital or a specialist. Like "k this is out of our league, perhaps you should seek out another facility with more resources" or something like that.
But yah one can say he is sicker than he looks. His toilet has been fine, he eats and drinks, his behavior or physical abilities (walking, jumping etc) hasn't changed.
The meds might do some. Fight any infection, ease any pain he has. He isn't fond of anyone touching that darn bump so I guess it's safe to say it hurts a bit. The special food we got is to get him more nutrition, so even if he eats less he would still get a lot of nutrients.
Well I was very blunt, kinda just asked "if this was your cat?" The specialist said she would put it to sleep, weee. But some test results were inconclusive, I'm not deciding anything on a "we think, might be" uncertainties. Nope. So we wait for all test results. I wanna be hopeful but he may be gone in idk two weeks.
Yes one day at a time. And he is spoiled, gets to do and eat whatever he wants. I wanna spend time with him, but I can't help getting sad when I do. Despite it all he's still as cuddly as ever, still purrs and meows, all his normal cute sounds.❤️ Tough little guy!
I've asked that question of our vet 😞 the answer is never easy to hear and they say it so matter of factly it seems. Maybe its just me being overly sensitive too. Just seems easier for them to say since it isn't their pet - I'm sorry I don't mean to sound like I'm making any harsh judgements of them
Nothing wrong at all with waiting until all the results come in. If nothing else you know for certain. It's good too he's got some new meds to keep him more comfortable if he does have any discomfort and I remember you had said he was alittle underweight - which can happen when they get older
Oh god yeah I can imagine how sad all this must make you. So much loss in such a short time - it's like Ajas all over again
I'm so so sorry you're facing all this again ❤️
@mytwistedsoul
Mhm that is my thinking. Up until this week all we've been doing is management. We haven't attempted to get to the source and treat it. Granted the vet at this smaller local clinic said Truls wasn't a candidate for any major treatment. But from I gather from the specialist, Truls may have been a candidate a month ago. Eh one shouldn't speculate I know, not good.
I like this smaller local clinic. I'm not gonna say that they are bad or have done anything wrong. I just wish they had sent us elsewhere. I'm not a vet, I can't say "this is to much for us to handle, you should go elsewhere." Otherwise yes I agree I also like the familiarity, actually get to know the people taking care of your pets medical needs.
Oh yah they can seem....idk almost cold when they answer that question "I would put my pet down if it was like yours" ish. But it's part of their job, to separate emotions, state facts. Can't be fun for them. I wonder how they feel when they go home at the end of the day, ish. 😕No you're not being over sensitive, I don't like to cry in public but yah I cry when that questions or that topic comes up. I don't think your being to judgmental either.
Yah and on the bright side waiting for the test results gives me a few more days with him. Besides, if it's his end....well another week won't do much. He is a bit underweight yah, this new food is supposed to be great in that regard. So even if he only eats a little, he still gains a lot of nutrition.
I have mentioned that, that I had like zero options with Ajas, but feels like I might have some options with Truls. Which is also one reason I don't wanna quit, give up to easily or to fast.
But I know, there is a point where we have to ask, should we do more or stop. Think about the pet, how things effect them.
Though I don't know if it's the extra medication, different food. I think he's more energetic now. ^^ 😊 More talkative, more alert and social. He fell asleep on me last night, ahh cutey. I could tell he was dreaming when his whiskers, paws and even tail were twitching.😍❤️
You know we've been chatting on and off for months now, wow. Thanks for listening! I know 7cups is just a website. But it helps, to just let it all out in a safe place. Thanks for all support and kind words. 😃😄
I hope your fluffers are doing well. 😊Everything alright with them?
@VDarkAge
whatever you choose to do will be good in my opinion! you loved him he loved you and I'm sure you both chose the best for each other as much as you could over the years. that being said. id like to share my opinion which is that maybe you could take the risk and do the surgery which might work. and if it doesn't then you would know that you have done the absolute best you could to make him live longer and well. but that is just my opinion as if what I most probably would have done especially if it was an affordable surgery. but this is your situation and whatever you choose would be for the best. cheers!
@VDarkAge
If you ever want to talk about it im all ears! Im so sorry for this but i hope you can find help to push through it!!!
@VDarkAge sending love and prayers for your dog! Cannot imagine what you must be going through. Pets are family members. I hope he does not suffer much and whatever you decide to do I am sure it will be for his best.
@VDarkAge I dropped my reply down here because it was easier lol
At times a month seems like such a short period of time but so much can happen in that time. I know with Kodie I still think about things. All the times we were at the vet for check ups and she was on something for arthritis and we had to have blood work done regularly to make sure it wasn't affecting her liver. They never found the cancer until it was too late. Too late to operate or provide any treatment 😞
I wonder sometimes if they look at their age too much? Maybe they think that it's too costly at their age? Idk - I'm sure they have our pets best interest in mind too and just don't want them to suffer
Cold is the right word. But I guess they have to detach from any feelings they might have or it would be too much to carry. I know it would be for me
Awww maybe its a combination of the food and the meds helping him to feel better - the extra calories in the food giving him more energy and the meds just helping so he feels less yucky
I love watching them dream 😊 and often wonder what they're dreaming about. Taz wags her tail in her sleep sometimes and I wonder if she dreams of Kodie ❤️
You're very welcome! It does help to have that safe space to let it out. I think talking about things helps to process them and it's been great to find someone who loves animals as much as I do
The fluffers are doing ok. Taz it's one day at a time. Some nights the sundowners is worse and she wanders the house alot. But I wander with her. She eats and gets those silly moments but she does sleep alot and our walks are very short. Her eyesight is worse and some days shadows seem to startle her but I touch her alot to let her know she's safe and not alone. She's not in any pain but I do wonder about her quality of life but then a silly moment kicks in and she seems so happy. It seems so unfair that she lost her hearing and her eyesight. I catch myself thinking that I wish some higher power would smile down on me this time and take her gently in her sleep because to have to make that call again breaks my heart. I wish that same higher power would smile down on you too so you wouldn't have to go through with what you are with Truls too
@mytwistedsoul Same thing here. We knew for weeks "it's a tumor, it's a bad kind" but nothing was done to deal with it. I do think they sometimes look at the age to much. Of course there is a huge difference between a 5 year old cat or dog vs a 10 year old. One shouldn't judge an animal by it's age to quickly. I did read several stories of cats older than mine who did lose a limb due to cancer. Well it just bothers me. Guess it bothers you to, if something had been done sooner. Well one can dwell all day on possible scenarios and outcomes.
They probably have to separate feelings everyday. It would be to much for sure, don't think I'd ever want that job now. It's one of those jobs, can be wonderful and it can be horrible.
Heheh agreed. I also wonder what they are dreaming about. Especially when they do a lot, like wag their tail in their sleep or make lots of sounds like whining or even barking. Would be cool to find out. 😃
Ohh yah talking about it sure helps. Sometimes you don't want to say things out loud, or maybe you don't want to talk about some things with family or friends. Having another safe place to let it out, it helps.
You're doing all you can for Taz. She may have lost her sight and hearing, but she is still happy. As long as she is happy and not in any pain, that's what counts. 😊Ohh I've wished for something similar, more of a miracle. Like can't some yah higher power just poof remove the darn lump from his leg, heal him up and ta da, got my kitty healthy again. People do believe in miracles, they do happen. Just feels unlikely this time. I'd hate to have to make the call again, like with Ajas. Decide what day is his last, ish.
Know what also kinda sucks? My birthday is coming up soon. Can't say I'm really feeling it this year. I know the world can't stop spinning because my cat is sick. But at the same time, I'm like...how can I celebrate my birthday when my cat is sick and might go soon. 😕 His birthday is a month away and I....well don't think, or don't know if he will make it to his.
Well who knows what's coming or what will happen. One day at a time. 😊
@VDarkAge They could have maybe tried to do something to shrink it. I mean there are cancer treatments for pets too. You're right that there is a big difference between the ages but each animal is also different. Some animals have a really strong will to live but others don't. Some have more fight in them
I used to think about being a vet. I'm better with animals than I am people lol! The only problem with pets is that they bring people with them 😂 I honestly couldn't handle the bad stuff. The injuries or accidents
I love that oof oof oof noise dogs make when they sleep. That soft bark. Probably at squirrels lol
Sometimes its like saying it out loud makes it real. It must be true because I just said it out loud. It just hurts too much to admit it 😞 or people think oh it's just a dog or its just a cat. To us they're so much more
It would be nice to be on the receiving end of a miracle. If Truls bump would just go away and Taz's eyes would clear
Oh gosh yeah it would make it hard to enjoy your birthday with this going on. The rest of the world can't stop but in a way yours has. You're kind of caught up in waiting. Waiting to hear results. Waiting for news. Just waiting 😞
One day at a time - definitely. I hope your day's pass gently and slowly ❤️
@VDarkAge This wonderful! Of course it's horrible that he'll lose a leg but he keeps his life! Will they have to take the whole leg or just the lower part? I can't quite remember where his bad bump is. 😬 I'm really glad you went for a second opinion and that this vet is able to help! ❤️ And his counts are up! 🎉 That to me says so much. His body is fighting! Those new meds must be helping too. Go Truls! This made my day! I'm so happy for you and him! I hope his counts keep getting better and better. It was weighing on me that you were facing another possible loss so soon
*hugs to you all!* ❤
@mytwistedsoul I'm unsure. When we first talked about the possibility of removing his leg I think we discussed that he would get to keep the upper part, but I'm unsure. It's located in his heel or guess you could say it's his ankle. At first we just saw a local regular vet, now it's an orthopedic specialist that will decide. I'd say it would be optimal if he gets to keep as much as possible. Then again, won't half a leg just be in the way.....?? No idea.
Oh yes I'm also very glad I went for a second opinion. 😃 Kinda wish I had gone earlier. Because yah a month ago, six weeks ago ish, his blood values were normal. Now we are just waiting and hoping for them to return to a more normal level.
Though one thing that does bother me is how Truls will have it after the amputation (if we get there). The first vet we saw at our local clinic was not fond of the idea. He wasn't against it, but he didn't like the idea that Truls may spend weeks or months afterwards in pain and be miserable and just get sick. And after that the only option would be to say bye bye. That's the thing, Truls may be fine...or he can go downhill fast and there's nothing really to be done.
It feels like a gamble. Remove his leg he may recover and be just fine, or he may not. Though the orthopedic specialist said that most cats recover. But like you said, he's a fighter! 😃
I have noticed in his overall behavior he's more talkative (like he used to be before he got sick) more cuddly, social etc. I don't know if it was because of the cancer, or because of Cosmos arrival. He did seem more quiet and withdrawn for a bit. A new puppy can make cats shy. So I'm a bit like hmm, why did he get like that? Well doesn't matter a ton, what matters is that he seems to be better now. 😀😊
Maybe I'm just thinking to much, overanalyzing, I'm good at that. xD 😊
But yes good news, so far the cancer hasn't spread and his blood values are better. Sure gives me hope that he might be alright, well I feel more confident about that now. 😊
@VDarkAge I guess I was thinking the less removed the smaller the area of pain. Either way its still a big deal though. He still has to have a big surgery. Maybe if it's just his foot it would be easier to get a small prosthetic for him and it would be easier to get around? 😬 Idk
An orthopedic vet probably can manage his pain better. I remember for Kodie's one surgery they used some kind of laser to help with her healing and they had her on a few different things for pain. She was about 10? I think
I never knew new puppies could make a cat shy! And I think it's so cool that you looked into it! 😄 It could've been a combination of the two. Maybe not feeling well made him more shy but now the meds are helping him feel better so he's more open to Cosmos being there now
Idk - I can really understand why you're thinking so much and over analyzing. This is a big thing. There's decision that need to be made and worry if you're making the right ones 😬 Tbh - I'd have myself tied up in knots thinking about it
@mytwistedsoul Yah possibly. Smaller wound, less issues, maybe. I also got lots of questions. If this is something Truls is eligible for and we actually pursue I will ask a lot of questions. Like will he need rehab or anything like that. I have heard of prosthetics for cats but I've never seen one. Since most cats manage just fine with three limbs sounds like a prophetic might just be in the way, idk.
A laser to help with healing, sounds cool and very handy. But yap the orthopedic vet will know what should work best for Truls.
Well it's not exactly that Cosmos made Truls shy. I'd say it's more the presence of someone new, Truls can smell him. Someone he doesn't know, so that would make him cautious and reserved. Cats can be very sensitive to changes in their environment. Truls has had a while to adapt so he's more chill about Cosmos now. He doesn't really mind him much. So I'd say they are getting along, or Truls is tolerating him. 😄
Lots to consider indeed. But one step at a time and we will just do what's best for Truls. Hopefully things go as expected, his blood value continues to go up and he gets surgery. In a month, three paws and hopefully no lingering pain or such.
My hope is that this will get him several more years of a happy life, or at least one more year. Not months of pain and complications. I'd also really like to stop going to the vet so often. I prefer to go there for vaccinations only.😊
@VDarkAge- sending you best wishes for your fur babies. The price of loving them is tons of worries when their health is not optimal.
@VDarkAge Nothing wrong with asking questions! The more you ask - the more you know. You need to have a clear picture of what you and Truls are facing. Its the only way to make an informed decision but I know you'll do what's best for him. I've no doubt about that
Animals are alot like people 😊 Bashful and shy around strangers and out going with people they know. Of course too - just like us they all have their own unique personalities. Which is so cool lol
Yeah just going to the vet for vaccines is way better than having to go as often as you have been. Kodie was never a dog that liked car rides. So everytime she had to go for blood work she used to get stressed out. Which stressed me out. Idk who was shakier lol - me or her ❤️
@mytwistedsoul Indeed. I want as much information as possible. I have read some stories about cats who had to undergo amputations, they seemed to have recovered just a week or even just a few days later. 😮So it seems like most cats have like no trouble at all. But still, best to be prepared.
I hope that Truls has a smooth and easy time, no issues. But in case we encounter issues I need to know how to handle it.
Hehe yes very true. One can notice how different two animals can be. Comparing Ajas and Cosmos, Cosmos is very very curios. Granted he's a puppy, puppies usually are very curios. He's also very sensitive, to things like sudden loud noises. Puppy class is just a few days away, I'm very excited and curios how it will go. 😃
Aww man poor Kodie. 😕 So every time she had to go to the vet was a bad experience ish. It's really inconvenient when you have to take a pet in the car and they hate the car. Of course it's stressful for you. Ajas wasn't fond of the car either but after a little while he calmed down.
Cosmos has only been for a car ride twice, the second time I showered him in candy, more or less. 😄 Make it a positive experience. 😊I hope that Cosmos will learn to be chill with cars and enjoy traveling in the car, would make things a lot easier in the future.
Yay puppy class! Omgosh he's gotta look so cute attending school! 😊 I bet he does good! You've been working with him and he's a clever little guy
I know when the time comes that I get another dog I'm going to do things differently. There will be more car rides to fun places. Not just rides when we have to. That when I say let's go bye byes there's excitement not me wrestling a 100 lb dog in through a car door lol! They seem to be able to turn into liquid and gain weight! Lol!
I hope puppy class goes good! ❤️
Breaking my heart. Good luck.
@mytwistedsoul Indeed, it's amazing what animals can do. Just when you think all hope might be gone they surprise us.😊
Well visited the vet yesterday, new blood sample....meh. Some good some bad. His white cell count is high but it's gone down a bit so that's good. But his red blood cell count has gone down a bit, was hoping it would go to normal levels. So no surgery yet, not until the red count goes up....if it does.
Soo next step is to see if we can change antibiotics to something more efficient, if we can we'll try that for a week and see how it goes. But if there are no antibiotics that would do a better job.....well guess that's when I see a cancer specialist.😐
Starting to wonder if I'm just prolonging the inevitable. If I'm insisting on trying things in vain and at the end of the day won't get anything from it. While Truls continues to have cancer. I feel like I'm almost expecting to hear something like "it's my ethical and moral duty to tell you that we shouldn't try anything else, he's to sick." 😢 No one has said that yet, but feels like someone might. I just want to keep my little guy around, is that so wrong, is that selfish?
Well he's alright for now, just gonna continue with his meds. Spoil the little tiger.😻
So glad I got Cosmos, that little goof makes me smile hehe. Puppy class went well. He was a bit frightened, new place, new dogs, like omg! 😱When an adult dog barked from some distance, yah he didn't like that. But overall it went well, it's good for Cosmos and fun! 😊 Was a bit funny, at the end of the class the instructor asked "do you need help teaching sit or lay down?" I was like nope, couldn't help myself had to show Cosmos do sit and lay down which he aced. He may have been frightened a bit, but he did the exercises very well.😃
Wrestling 100lb dog through the car door, lols. 😂 Yah sounds like a good idea to go on more car rides. I'm gonna have Cosmos in the car more often. He did not like it on our way to puppy class, oh nope. He felt like it was a good idea to bark, fortunately it was a short drive, 10min ish. He didn't like to be restrained, to be stuck in the car harness. Third time ever in the car, he was much better on our way home almost fell asleep. Practice makes perfect.😊
@VDarkAge I don't think it's selfish. Not at all. He's your baby too - like Ajas was. It's natural to want them around as long as possible. It's hard making these decisions when the choices just suck no matter what you do. I'm sorry to hear the counts are messed up yet. Hopefully a stronger antibiotic will help. Are there any natural supplements you could give him that could maybe help boost the good counts? I'll have to look online
@mytwistedsoul Yah it sure isn't easy. We shall see, won't know until next week if we get a stronger antibiotic. But I can't help thinking that we're in 2023, you see all the amazing things modern medicine can do. I'm like surely there is something more that can be done.
I don't know if there is anything we can give him to improve his blood values, one way to increase his blood values is a transfusion. But as you can imagine that would be difficult, blood for a senior cat with cancer. I do recall from something I watched on TV once. They couldn't give a patient blood, but they could give the components of blood. Something I will ask next time we see the vet.
Hehe yah he can be a big little frightened baby, other times he can be a little piranha afraid of nothing. 😂 Yah agreed one wants a dog to enjoy things like going in the car, not hiding from it. "Car...oh no...leave me home....." goofy animals indeed.
@VDarkAge It does seem like at this point we should be able to do more amazing things medically
@mytwistedsoul Indeed. You read about all these crazy medical breakthroughs for humans, are animals so far behind? Feels like that sometimes.
Yah I think I've also read something about iron supplements for cats. I will mention it and ask yap. No news yet if he can get different antibiotics, fingers crossed!
Lols black lab puppy "playing drums" hehe. Adorable! 😍😃Cosmos is getting big, soon 4 months old! He likes to do backflips, and frontflips. He can just roll around over himself, hehe.
@mytwistedsoul
News: Gonna try another kind of antibiotic, puuh. 😃
I was worried they were gonna call and be like "no antibiotic will work better".
Sooo now please please please work better, at least so he's eligible for surgery. I'm a bit like, give me a break! This entire thing has been up and down, some good news and bad news. So Truls is free from vet visits for about another 10 days, that's when we are gonna go back and follow up on how the new medication has been working.
Wow like 2 weeks without a vet visit. xD 😀 No wait scratch that, gonna get Cosmos another vaccination. Not a mandatory one, but one the vet recommended is very good to get.
@VDarkAge That's great that they're trying a new antibiotic! I really hope this one works. It feels kind of hopeful that they're willing to try something else to see if that helps. But gosh yeah you've been on quite a rollercoaster ride with him ❤️
@VDarkAge Well today is day one with the new medicine. I hope this will be some "magic" pill and after a week with these he will be a lot better. One can hope. 😀
We haven't made an appointment for Cosmos yet. But did go to puppy class again and another ride in the car. It's going better, not as much barking in the car and at the puppy class he didn't get frightened again. Sure he whined a bit, but he didn't need a time out like last time. Overall Cosmos is doing good, just wouldn't mind if he would stop trying to eat me. xD😂😃
The instructor called him small. Small? He's huge! Four months and like 11.5 kg ish. Big fella! Gotta enjoy the time I can actually pick him up and have him in my lap, won't work very well when he's 20kg+.
Ohh that video! Seen it, soooo adorable! I could watch it all day hihih, so cute! 😊
@VDarkAge I hope too! Something that helps raise the counts that need raised and lowers the count that needs to drop. Got my fingers crossed!
@mytwistedsoul
Well first time at puppy class, last week, it was a lot for him. New place, new smells, new dogs and people. On top of that one adult dog barking a bit, which kinda spooked him. Soo yah last week he needed a time out. Just get away from others a bit, play with a toy for a while to get him to relax.
He didn't need that this week, he seemed more comfortable. 😊
Car rides....ehh still tricky. Now he isn't to fond of getting in the car. Gonna work on it. Don't want an adult lab who doesn't like to get in the car.
He can be adorable and super cute.😍 He can also be this "enormous" little beast with his arms flailing around as he reaches for your fingers to munch on. xD 😂
@VDarkAge Oh gosh yeah that's a lot for a little guy to take in! All the new sights - sounds and smells at one time. I'm glad he did good this last time and didn't need that time out
@mytwistedsoul
Oh yes lots of new sights and smells, and people! On walks we pass strangers and he wants to say hi to **everyone** but to be realistic, he can't say hi to everyone. So he sometimes gets disappointed when he doesn't get to say hi to that stranger. Sorry pup, can't stop and greet everyone.
Ohh he is more of a kid now, well not much of a baby anymore I suppose since he's past 4 months old. What would he be if he was human....idk 3 year old human. Give or take.
He has his special mischief. Like shoes of course, what little puppy doesn't like to run away with shoes. He also has a thing about the shower. He likes to go in there and lick the floor. Heck after a meal in the kitchen he will go around and lick the kitchen floor, as if he's licking every single microscopic crumb he may have dropped. xD 😂 I'm like "alrighty, free cleaning from the puppy okay." 😂But that with the shower, yah I'm guessing he is trying to lick any water drops. What a silly little goof, but very cute! At least he's not afraid of it the shower.
A little update about Truls. 😊I think he is actually getting better. I try to be very neutral, like you know how we sometimes see the things we want to see. But to me it seems like Truls is eating better, drinking better as well. His bowls seem more used and today I saw him do one of his favorite silly things, drink water from the faucet. Yahh he always liked to stick his head in the sink. And, I'm not sure hard to tell, think he is gaining weight. Just feels like "more cat" when I pick him up.
Well I'm not 100% certain about any of this with Truls, but watching him like a hawk....and giving him lots of candy. 😊
@VDarkAge Awww 🥺 he gets disappointed because he can't say hi. That's the sweetest thing ❤️ - even though realistically I know you're right and he can't greet everyone
@mytwistedsoul
He is very people happy. But you know there are bad people in the world, dogs don't always know that. Best if Cosmos learns that he can't say hi to everyone. But dogs are really smart! Some can tell from a distance if it's a bad person, just based on how that person looks.
Game of chase oh yah he does that. 😄I know one shouldn't chase a puppy when they run away with something like a shoe, kinda hard to resist. They can do a lot of damage with their razor sharp teeth on your favorite shoes. But yap Labradors are water dogs, would be fun to take him swimming one day or just go to some lake. When he's older and it's warmer. 😊
Truls been on these new antibiotics for about a week. We are going back to the vet on friday, day 10. I think he is getting better, sure I could be imagining things. But recall that special wet food which is very nutritious even if he doesn't eat a lot of it? Well before he ate maybe a smaller amount per day, rarely finished the plate. Now he finishes the bowl and eats more within a couple of hours. 😊
I also hope this works, don't wanna think about what will happen if it doesn't. Don't wanna speculate, but....kinda seems like it is working. 😃
Positive thoughts! Oh they get lots of hugs hehe, very spoiled with cuddles.😍😃
@VDarkAge
As someone who has owned two dogs, recently my older dog died in 2021 (due to old age), its was a tough grieving phase for me, yes I cried and I felt heartbroken 💔 it's like losing a part of you where you feel empty and it's no longer there. I have a very soft spot for animals (especially dogs) and it hits me hard upon hearing a terminal illness or loss of a pet. I currently have only one dog who is very dear to me, I love him to the core but I will also need to be prepared for the worst situation as dogs generally live a short and sweet live. All we can do is to cherish every moment spent with them.
@Mils Hey :) You're so right it is like losing a part of you. I'm so sorry for your loss. Even though time passes you still miss them. They're big personalities and they fill our lives with so much