Monday, August 19, 2013

Liver Cancer Will Be Her Demise?

 On or about August 7, Lucy started losing her appetite.  She wouldn't even take a Milkbone.  So I knew something was up.  All my babies have been rather lethargic these hot summer days, so that didn't really concern me.
 When I could get Lucy to eat and I thought whatever it is is over: she would vomit.  I took her to the vet and in the light of the office I could see that Lucy was jaundice in her eyes, gums, and ears.  I was heart broken.  Her and Joe had just had their annuals on July 3rd and the blood work looked normal.  Her numbers were off the charts this week.  I left her at the vet for three days to do an ultrasound etc.  She has nodules on her liver and pancreatitis as well.  I could have opted for an exploratory surgery but I did not.  The $5000 price did have some influence on that decision.  But overall, I thought if doctors say they don't want to subject my 98 year old Father to surgery that will have little or no benefit then why would I do that to my dog of 10 years?
 I brought her home Saturday morning and she wasn't in the best of spirits and I could not get her to eat a thing.
 Today she was in a much better mood and I finally got her to eat a boiled potato and some rice and  a tablespoon of canned dog food.
The vet suggested Pepcid ac for her nausea and I have other medications as well that will be a challenge to get down her.  I'm trying not to worry myself silly and to be a good guardian.  I'm just glad she is home.  I hope I can continue to get her to eat and to keep her comfortable.  Pray for my Lucy that she will not suffer and that I will make good choices for her.

7 comments:

Tim said...

Rick, I am so sorry to hear this news, and hope that your lovely Lucy can stay by your side till the end. Hugs, Tim

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry for Lucy - I know what it's like to have pancreatitis and liver failure. I hope Panc. is as painful for dogs as it is for humans.

My thoughts are with you. I would do the same thing. Truvy and Tramp will be 12 and 13 in Nov and I freak at every little thing.

Be strong and enjoy the the time you have together.

xxoo

Harpers Keeper said...

Oh my. I am so sorry to hear this.

My heart goes out to you both.

You both will be in my thoughts.

Ur-spo said...

My partner informed me of this : any pet owner knows what you are dealing with. I am glad you are surrounded by well wishers during this awful time.

Howard in CT said...

I just knew from the lack of postings that something was up.

Rick, I am so sorry, and that doesn't even begin to cut it.

I went thru this in 2011 and again in 2012 with my Yorkies, 12, and 14 years old.

You did absolutely the right thing in refusing the exploratory, Rick. You know all you need to know, and why subject Lucy to any such unnecessary.

I helped a very close friend through this with his Golden 3 years ago. Give her the meds, keep her comfortable, hell, feed her vanilla ice cream if she wants it.

I pray for you, Man and I pray for Lucy. Together the two of you will make the right decisions.

Stan said...

Bless Lucy's heart. You bought are in my thoughts and prayers.
Hugs,
Stan

How Sam Sees It said...

I'm catching up on blogs - I'm so sorry, Rick. We will say prayers for you and Lucy.

Sam