Hey Dog Lovers,
Today I talk about Dog Cancer and how to process what to do next. Getting the new initially can seem like a death sentence for your dog, however that is not always the case. A positive outlook is your best tool.
Biggest thing to remember is that you now more than ever become their advocate and putting your energy into helping them, rather than dwelling on their impending loss.
Tips for dealing with Cancer:
- Don’t Panic
- Having a plan can reduce stress
Find Support
Make a plan
Educate yourself
Learn how to administer medications
*Be aware of how this disease and subsequent therapy will affect your dog’s behavior*
Common Questions to know the answers to:
- How big is my dog?
- Can I carry them if they can’t get up and walk on their own?
- Do I have help if they can’t walk?
- What is my plan, if they are big and cannot get up on their own?
- What is my dog’s temperament? Will they put up with a lot of handling or do they get grumpy or try to bite?
Questions to think about or ask Vet:
- What does the diagnosis mean?
- Should I seek a specialist?
- What are my treatment options?
- What is the prognosis?
- What are the signs and symptoms of my dogs cancer or things I need to look for in the future?
- How much of a time commitment is required if I pursue treatment? How about if I don’t pursue treatment?
- Are their special nutritional requirements? How do I make sure my dog is getting enough calories?
- Are there other supportive things I should consider, such as complementary medicine, such as massage therapy?
- How do I know if my dog is in pain? (See previous post that focuses on that)
- When is hospice indicated? What does hospice mean?
- How do I know when it is time to euthanize my dog?
- What do I do if I do not believe in euthanasia?
Although this diagnosis is awful and heart wrenching, stay calm and ask the right questions, create a plan to make the most of your time together.
Make sure to check back weekly for Training Tuesdays and Thursday Thoughts
