A Survival Guide for Owners of Dogs with Cancer
Did you know that cancer is very common in older dogs? This means you are not the only pet owner dealing with this tough situation. Others have dealt with cancer in dogs, and currently are going through it. Fortunately, this also means there is a lot of information available to you about cancer and tumors in dogs, and there are dog cancer survival guides available to owners like you.
Get the facts
First of all, get the information you need about the type of cancer your dog has. You need the data from your pet's veterinarian, including a diagnosis, the grade, and the stage your dog is currently in. You are probably facing difficult emotions, and while that is understandable, you need to clear your mind in order to make the best decisions for your canine friend.
Consider longevity and life quality
You are your dog's advocate. This means you will have to make the best possible decisions concerning his or her welfare. Find out the types of treatment and care available, and any side effects of such treatments. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are all common treatment options. Ask the veterinarian how many dogs respond well to the particular type of treatment before deciding to go through with it. Consider your dog's longevity and life quality as well when you are making a decision.
Make the best of it
During this time, make your dog as comfortable as you possibly can. If your beloved friend has only a short while to live, make the best of it--make the last few days or months the best you can. Focus on controlling your dog's pain, improving your dog's diet, and increasing your dog's life quality. Spend extra time playing with your pet and giving him or her special attention, along with plenty of quiet time and rest. Who knows--your dog may live long past the doctor's prognosis.
Moving on
If your dog survives this tough time, make sure to take every precaution you can to ensure continued health. This includes a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and interaction with humans, and of course, you will need to make regular visits to the veterinarian.
However, if your dog does not survive the cancer, try to find comfort in knowing that you did what you could. Hopefully, he or she was able to lead a happy and healthy life prior to the cancer diagnosis. To help you deal with the pain of losing your beloved pet, join a support group or talk to friends who have also lost a pet. Maybe someday you will be able to take in another puppy (or adult dog) that needs your love.
References:
Published by Tonya Hillukka - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle
Tonya writes about a variety of topics that interest her. Having earned a degree in Interior Design, she is knowledgeable in various aspects of the home improvement industry, including decorating and green l... View profile
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3 Comments
Post a Commentgood article, thanks!
Very sound advice, thanks for this.
Losing a beloved pet is always a tragedy. Thanks for this useful information for dog owners, Tonya.
Sophie