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Lost my baby to liver cancer

by Jessica Lansberry
(Cheyenne, WY)

My lil' Reno Casino, our 3 pound, 12 year-old Pomeranian just passed away Feb. 1 of liver cancer. It was a very brutal thing to go through.

About 2 weeks ago, he vomited a couple of times and seemed to have a high fever. With no problems before, I was concerned and took him to the vet. The vet did a blood test and thought he may be suffering from cholingiohepatitis.. I know he doesn't use drugs or share needles, so I was wondering how a dog gets hepatitis!

Last week, he was better than ever and eating normal and playing and very alert. Then on Friday, he seemed depressed and not happy... by Saturday, I was feeding him using an eyedropper to keep him hydrated and any proteins and recommended nutrients and electrolytes, to keep him healthy during his treatment on Prednisone. His legs were getting very stiff and he had problems walking. I searched this site, read many of your sad stores and tried to find any information I could. Sunday morning at 4:00, I woke up to hear my baby crying, like a yelp...

I took him to the vet on Sunday; and found out his liver was shutting down; he was in the early stages of jaundice, and his arms and legs were seizing up on him. By that night, he couldn't walk or move out of his bed and vomited everything; including undigested food he ate on Thursday night. It was then that I knew he probably wouldn't make it very much longer. As I was getting ready to call the vet to see if we could get him put to sleep, he released his bowels and let himself slide away. It was tough, I couldn't bear the thought of picking the time to put my dog, or any dog to sleep. It was too fast. Too sudden. I have an unpatchable hole in my heart, that hopefully with support from others will eventually get better, but right now, I am bawling my big fat head off thinking of him.

Thanks for listening. My heart goes out to everyone on this site that has lost their loved ones.

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Lost my baby to liver cancer

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Aug 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to Ray (Sneakers' Parent)
by: Hazel, Site Editor

Ray, first of all, I am so sorry to hear about Sneakers. Even though I know dogs can succumb to liver cancer very fast, it still shocks me every time I read stories posted by visitors about how rapidly liver cancer can spread and kill a dog.

I totally agree with you that there should be more research on canine cancer and risks of some drugs, and I think it would be an excellent idea if you could channel your grief and love for Sneakers into starting a program for that. Please keep us informed and tell us more about your plan.

You can also contact me and maybe I can help out in some way.

Thanks.
Aug 29, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Dog Rosie
by: Anonymous

It was just yesterday that our dog Rosie was put to sleep due to liver cancer.

She had been a happy and seemingly healthy dog a few days ago but then she suddenly stopped eating, drank lots and seemed very lethargic. We took her to the vets who said she had a very high temperature and to leave her there overnight as they brought it back down.

Just 2 hours later they called to say they'd had to do surgery and found the tumor. It was so large and at 13 she wouldn't survive the next few days.

I went to say goodbye to her but she was still asleep from the operation. I feel so guilty and my heart feels as if in a million pieces, I never felt grief like it. I worry she feels I let her down for not spotting it or helping her sooner.
Aug 29, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Losing loving family member
by: Anonymous

Unfortunately we are about to become member of this dreaded club.

Our 10 1/2 year old lab mix lost 15 plus pounds (went from 85 to 70lbs) in the last 3 weeks. Stopped eating. Fever. Edema of the front lower leg. Loss of energy. No pain. No vomiting. Increased thirst.

Vet said he can feel a tumor on his swollen liver. Told us he is sure that he has liver cancer. Told us to save the thousands of dollars that many people spend on treatments that will not extend his life. Told us to make peace with it and monitor the dog for quality of life issues. He will eat hamburger and milk bones but nothing else. Seems to still be generally happpy and pain free. Vet would not give us a "time frame".

Can any of you help us with one based on your personal experiences?
Aug 27, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sneakers
by: Ray

It was on July 27th that our beloved 10-year-old, 110-lb. Golden Retriever, Sneakers, lost interest in eating and showed signs of lethargy and weakness. We went through a 10-day ordeal of tests, with some good days, some bad, to find out that he had liver cancer. We hospitalized him for 4 days (also to treat possible secondary infection), and subsequently tried holistic/homeopathic remedies.

By August 22nd, he could barely walk (which makes urinating difficult), would not eat (which caused weight loss and weakness), and had no interest in life. A last-ditched effort was tried with antibiotics and dexamethasone, but he developed high fever and began collapsing.

On Aug. 24th, we had to bring him for the "act of kindness" shot; the look in his eyes, pleading for help by a miracle which I was unable to provide, will haunt me forever.

We buried him in a beautiful spot in a pet cemetery, where I stop by every other day to cry for the time he was cheated out of in life.

For Stacy (see comment below): do not regret about not "having the money" to help your dog - it is not always the answer. I spent $7,000 on Sneakers, and came up empty.

There should be more research in the genetics of breeding recessive genes, tighter control on Kansas-based puppy farms, research into the grain-based garbage that Purina puts into their food, and lastly, more info. on the potential risks of Rimadyl and Previcox. That would help future generations of our beloved companions.

I want to start a Program to generate interest and support for these, for all who are interested.
Aug 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Losing our Stella
by: tina and michael

Only yesterday I made a decision I swore I would never make.

I had my four year old English Bulldog put down.

She had suddenly lost weight and wouldn't eat. So we switched her food, gave her all her favorites like potatoes and watermellon. For a couple days she seemed to be bouncing back to her old self.

Then again she would not eat. The amount of weight she lost was scary. We went to see our vet Sam who was immediately concerned. You have to understand, Sam is a dr that doesn't get excited. But this day he was concerned. None of his usual jokes. We did blood work - elevated liver panel, white blood cell count high, red blood cell count low. His first thought was infection of the uterus which was a large concern. So after a injection of antibiotics as well as one to take home, we were off with instructions to return in two days to repeat labs and determine what to do.

I slept none those two nights. Not that she seemed to decline I was very worried. I am a registered nurse and had too many thoughts running through my mind.

Well the day came off we go to see Dr Sam. Temp is gone! Yeah! Blood work however shows no improvements. So X-ray - didnt show anything conclusive. So now the next step was sx just to see, and if the infection to uterus, it's a hysterectomy for Stella.

So he picks up our gal and whisks her off for special treatment. See he had many sx for the day, but stella is special so she was pushed to the front of the line. I am sure that he will patch our baby right up as he has done in the past with all our babies.

Within 15 minutes the phone rings - it's him. Cancer in the liver, spleen and small intestine. No! Her last days would have been painful. So I said it, put her down.

I have not stopped crying. We are lost, confused, and mad. She was our baby, now buried under the trees with her favorite pink kitty pillow, her baby doll, favorite dog bone, and a raw potato, you see that was her favorite thing besides watermellon.

Stella, momma's so sorry I didnt see, I would do anything to made you well.

We love you!

Dad, Mom, Sawyer, Sam, Opie, Pearl, Ollie, Mollie, Huck, Sophie, and Stienie.

We come to sit under your tree every day. Momma loves you. I am so sorry, baby.
Aug 21, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Stacy & Miss Mike
by: Sharon

Stacy, do not feel guilty about not having the money to help Miss Mike. When dogs get liver cancer there is not much you can do. When you see the symptoms, it's usually too late.

I was feeling guilty about not bringing Harlee in sooner, but the cancer was all through her. If they had operated, she probably wouldn't have made it anyway. It would have been a painful thing to put her through for a few months more.

My heart goes out to you, because it has been almost 3 weeks and I am still grieving. But, it will get better and you can take solace in the fact that Miss Mike had a loving home. Take care.

Sharon
Aug 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My 9 year old chinese crested Miss Mike
by: Stacy

I just had to put my 9 year old Chinese crested hairless Miss Mike to sleep yesterday morning.

There was nothing wrong with her until about a week ago. I went out of town and left her with my parents to babysit. When I got home she stated acting weird. Stopped eating, very lethargic, had diarrhea, and very thirsty.

In a matter of a week she went from a happy dog to a very sickly dog. I took her to the vets and he said it was her liver. She was starting to get jaundice. The vet suggested several tests. I didn't have the money to spend on the tests and feel so guilty and horrible. After the tests would have been completed, the vet said it would be very expensive to treat her and nothing was guaranteed. He gave her some antibiotics and fluids and I took her home that night.

I wanted to wait for a few days and pray she would start to get better. But through the night she just got worse. I held her all night in my arms and cried. She licked the tears off my face as if to tell me "It's ok, Mom".

The next morning I carried her outside to use the bathroom. She took two steps and fell over. I picked her up knowing I couldn't leave her like this. I called my vet and said I needed to put her to sleep. I wrapped her in her favorite blanket and put her in the car. She watched me the whole way to the vet's office, wimpering and breathing very heavy.

I was with her when they gave her the shot. I told her I was so sorry and that I loved her dearly. And then she was gone. The vet assured me there was probably not much that could have been done to help her.

I wish I had the finances to have helped my baby. I feel like the worst person in the world to have not been able to help my girl. She was in bad shape and it just happened so quickly. I have another Chinese crested at home. She is 13 and misses her sister dearly. It was horrible to come home and not have my Miss Mike there to greet me and bring me her favorite stuffed duck.

Between the guilt of not having the money to help her and the fact that she is now gone is killing me. I just couldn't bear to watch my baby girl die in pain. I will miss her forever and hopefully the guilt will some day go away.

To anyone who has had a dog die from liver cancer or is sick from it, my prayers are with you. It's gut wrenching to have to watch your furry children get sick and then you have to make that decision. It's even worse when you don't have the money to help those furry friends we love with all our heart!

I'm so sorry Miss Mike.
Aug 21, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		I will miss my baby
by: Anonymous

Right now my eyes are swollen from crying. I had been preparing myself for it for quite sometime as I saw my 16 yr. Pomeranian get worst. He started coughing and gagging about a year ago, but these past few weeks he had gotten worst. He started having a hard time breathing.

I took him to a Veterinary Specialty Center, but after some oxygen treatment and taking liquid from his lungs, they tell me that he is really in a bad condition. Even if we opt for more aggresive treatment, they don't guarantee he will get any better. I don't seem to have any other choice.

I have to let go but it is so difficult that I dread going tomorrow morning to do what I have to do to stop my dear baby from suffering any longer.
Aug 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Scamp
by: jan

I have just read your page about your poor dog. I am crying my eyes out because my poor dog has just been diagnosed as well. My daughters and I are gutted.

My dog is still walking around but he is getting weaker. I know the time is coming when I will have to take him to the vet as well, but I am finding it very hard. He is my best loyal friend and I love him so much.

Keep your chin up. I know how you are feeling.
Aug 11, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Angel
by: Deb

Our incredible dog, Angel, had to be put to sleep yesterday. She was an eleven year old cockapoo. She didn't show any real signs of being sick until 2 days ago....panting, thirsty, and elevated temp. She was still eating, playing, and being the most lovable dog in the world.

We thought they would give her something and she would be back home with us.

My husband had to let her go because she was actually in a lot of pain and wouldn't have made it through the night. She never let us know what she was feeling.

Reading everyone's stories, I realize how quickly this horrible disease takes our furry children. My heart goes out to all of you as I know that the hole in your hearts is causing you as much pain as I am feeling.
Aug 10, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sharon and everyone else
by: Jessica

I am continually sorry to hear these stories. I am very grateful for this website and glad that you, and myself found a supportive forum to share our grief.

God Bless to all who have lost their babies. It is very, very hard. With lots of prayers to you :)
Aug 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lost my loving Harlee August 3.
by: Sharon

I had to put down my adorable cock-a-poo, Harlee, this past week and feel such a void in my life, I can't breathe at times. She was the joy IN my life.

She was 12 1/2 and, just like everyone else wrote on here, it came on so quickly. I can't believe she's gone. I had her cremated and put her in an urn so she will always be with me.

There were no symptoms until about a month ago when she became somewhat lethargic and wouldn't eat very much. I thought it was her age and the heat. It was agony to leave her to go to work and I would worry the whole time I was there.

She told me with her eyes that she was ready so I had the vet do a "Quality of Life" exam and it was the time to do it. I was with her hugging and kissing her when she went. It was very peaceful and I felt relief that she did not have pain anymore. I think about her all the time and hope that she knows I love and miss her very much.

Rest in peace, Pigpen.
Aug 02, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Dear Adriana--
by: Anonymous

Caro Adriana - sono così spiacente per la vostri tristezza e dolore attualmente. Anche se non desideriamo mai dobbiamo euthanize i nostri animali cari, occasionalmente come questi, esso è per il la cosa migliore. Il vostro cane sta soffrendo e realizzate quello. Il prolungamento della sua agonia dalla prova, ecc., è più difficile per il vostro cane che per voi. Conosco che cosa la mia decisione ha dovuto essere basata su che cosa ho ritenuto nel mio cuore. Amavo il mio Andie di più di le parole possono dire, ma era tempo di metterlo pace senza il vomito, anima nel suo sgabello, dolore, ecc. Manco la sua faccia dolce ed il suo gentleness e tutte le cose divertenti ha fatto che neppure non ha realizzato che stava facendo! Gli animali li accettano per chi siamo, non per come osserviamo o quanti soldi abbiamo o quanto popolare siamo. Il vostro cane dipende da voi per prendergli le giuste decisioni per. Spero che facciate appena quello. Sono spiacente per la miseria che state andando attraverso. Ritengo che tali miseria ed emptiness ora ed io ritengo il vostro dolore attualmente. Desidero che il la cosa migliore ed il mio cuore uscite a voi.
Aug 02, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Zizou
by: Adriana

Spero che il mio post si capisca lo stesso anche se non scrivo in inglese.
Mercoledi scorso al mio cane (zizou pastore tedesco, 9 anni e 8 mesi)gli si è gonfiata la zampa destra. Io non ero a casa ma mio papà lo ha portato subito dal veterinario, che ha pensato che fosse la stessa malattia che il cane ha alle zampe posteriori (il mio cane soffre di displasia alle anche). Giovedi sera sono arrivata a casa e il cane aveva entrambe le zampe gonfie,beveva tantissimo, non mangiava e vomitava. Allora venerdi l'ho subito portato dal dottore con la speranza nel cuore che non fosse un tumore...invece dopo aver fatto le analisi il dottore mi ha detto che tutte quelle che riguardavano il fegato avevano valori sballati. Quindi il dottore gli ha fatto le lastre per vedere se c'era qualcosa e in effetti c'è un a massa molto grossa tra il fegato ed l'intestino. Il dottore mi ha dato dei medicinali per sgonfiare le zampe e la morfina per non farlo soffrire dicendomi che martedi(domani) gli farebbe l'ecografia per vedere se effettivamenteè cancro. Il cane però sta molto male, continua a vomitare, a non mangiare, a bere, a piangere...Non ce la faccio più a vederlo soffrire e lui che ha capito tutto mi guarda con quei suoi occhioni come a chiedere pietà e al tempo stesso cerca di alzarsi per fare forza a me che gli voglio così tanto bene...Nn posso fargli aspettare l'ecografia fino a domani e perciò ho chiamato il veterinario e tra qualche ora, entro mezzogiorno, verrà ad addormentare il mio cucciolone. Non sono sicuri al 100% che sia cancro al fegato ma i sintomi mi sembrano evidenti...e lui soffre tanto. Io mi sento in colpa perchè non posso aiutarlo nè essere sicura che sia realmente cancro perchè non voglio più farlo soffrire e mi sento in colpa anche perchè lo devo far addormentare per sempre, ma più di tutto mi manca già adesso il mio giocherellone che quando torno a casa mi accoglie con le feste o sonnecchiando sotto l'albero alza la testa con quello sguardo che dice:uff mi hai svegliato! Ho il cuore a pezzi e mi sembrava fino a poco prima di trovare questo sito, che nessuno capisse il mio dolore. Grazie per avermi letto..ora vado a passare gli ultimi istanti con il mio cucciolo anche se dorme...ciau a tutti Adriana
Jul 29, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Just lost my sweetie dog on July 28, 2010
by: Linda (for Andie)

I have read many of the comments about dogs and liver cancer. I just had my shepherd mix put to sleep yesterday evening (July 28, 2010). We believe he had liver cancer, and after reading your stories, I'm pretty sure he did.

My sweet dog, Andie, was 14 and acting like an old dog, having trouble holding his urine, etc. He was excessively thirsty and wanted water so much. Then, he couldn't hold it so he went on the carpet all the time. Took him to the vet last week and they did a blood test which had to be sent to another state for anaylsis. They thought he possibly had Cushing's disease and I read alll about that on the internet.

His condition worsened in just a few days' time and yesterday morning, when he had a bowel movement, which was very runny, there was lots of blood in it and I was so worried for him.

I took him to the vet's and left him there for an evaluation. He was severely dehydrated, but not jaundiced. The vet said that she got the preliminary results on the Cushing's disease and he looked as if he had that. In the meantime, she tried to take his temperature anally and blood came out of his rectum again. She called me at work and asked if they could do an x-ray to see what was causing this. In about a half hour she called me at work and said that they saw a large mass either in his stomach or liver.

The vet told me she could refer me to an oncology veterinarian for further testing, but I declined. Andie was 14 and I didn't want to put him through further misery. He was already very weak and had lost 5 lbs. I didn't think he would pull through all that and why put him through that to live a few months longer, or less?

Yesterday evening we had him put to sleep and it has been a terrible experience. After reading all the comments on this web site, I feel confident that I did the right thing. I believe Andie had liver cancer that didn't rear its ugly head until just last week. He was gone so quickly!

As with everyone else here, my heart goes out to those of you who have a lost a beloved pet. They're our family and we love them dearly. Please know that my thoughts are with everyone here who has lost a pet to this terrible disease.
Jul 28, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Glad I found this page
by: Michelle

I haven't been able to sleep or eat since we lost our miniature doxie Tess two weeks ago. She was 14 years old and overweight, but other than that she was still active and I felt we had so much time left together.

On a Friday she had diarrhea, then Saturday vomiting. Still acting like her usual self, we thought it was a "bug" like some of you have commented. By Sunday night I knew something was off so we took her in to the vet on Monday. They said they couldn't really find anything wrong with her. They did all kinds of tests, even xrays. The only thing they could say was her liver enzymes were elevated. They gave her IV fluids and antibiotics and sent her home. The vet sent home pamphlets about Cushings disease and Pancreatitis. He also sent some blood work out to a special lab.

I was so relieved! I immediately researched those two problems, and while they could be serious, they could also be treated.

That night Tess didn't sleep. She just lay in the bed beside me panting excessively. She would drink water, but that was it.

I called the vet back the next morning and insisted they do something else for her. He said they got her blood work back and all they could tell was it was "something" with her liver. He told us we could see a specialist for an ultrasound and should bring Tess back to the office for IV and hospitalization.

Before we could do that, she went into convulsions and died in our arms.

I have been researching for hours and hours trying to find answers. I even paid an expert online because I still don't know why my baby is gone. He said it was probably liver cancer. But I couldn't believe she could be sick without any problems...until I read your stories. I am still so very sad, but at least I have more information and can stop blaming myself.
Jul 22, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		I Miss You, Mia
by: Christy

Losing my dog, Mia, to liver cancer has been the hardest thing I've ever had to experience. She was my best buddy, and life just isn't the same without her. We had to put her down, seeing as she was suffering so much, and we knew that she'd pass two days later, in a much more painful way, as opposed to 'peaceful'.

My whole family is torn up. We had her for eleven years... But that time with your best friend is never long enough, I think.

Mia was born with more medical problems than any dog we'd ever heard of, but always pulled through. This time wasn't the same, and she seemed to know that. It's odd, though. Only a week before I was playing with her, she was eating, begging, etc. Then she just sort of stopped eating and lost her spark. Still, I'd do anything to see her again. I can only hope that I'll meet up with her for endless days of tug-o-war when I pass on.
Jul 21, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Lost our Dog Last Friday
by: Shannon

Hi, I posted a comment on this page on July 2nd about our lab/sheltie mix having possible liver cancer.

He was having up and down phases...good when he was on antibiotics then down when he came off of them. Last week he was really down and we were trying to get him back on the medication but this time the "down" was worse. He was eating only enough to keep a bird alive...getting weaker.

This past Friday, July 16th, our sweet 12 year old dog passed away on his own here at home. We were dreading the thought of bringing him to the vet this week. My husband and I had both prayed for God to let him die on his own peacefully and that is what happened. But outside we now have an empty dog pen and no yips of excitement when we come home from work...pretty lonely. So I understand the grief many of you are facing right now.

Have you heard of the "Rainbow Bridge"? My aunt mailed me a copy of it and it gave me comfort. The internet might have Rainbow Bridge posted somewhere. Also a friend told me of a website called "Peternity" - a memorial site for your pet.

So sorry to hear of others grieving like me. I am in a way relieved our pet is not hurting anymore (or suffering through the horrible Texas heat we are enduring right now). It was draining me physically and emotionally to care for him. But that still doesn't lessen the sadness I am feeling.
Jul 20, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Marci, Our Beloved Dog
by: BQ

Yesterday (Monday) we had to put our beloved, Marci, lab/chow mix dog to sleep. She was 10 years old. She started throwing up Saturday morning. She slept most of the day and on Sunday acted a bit better. She actually ate and did her nightly walk. We thought she just might have a virus because she had been boarded for a week while we were on vacation.

Yesterday morning she was vomiting again and her legs were really shaky, so I took her to the vet. She had never been sick before and we were nervous! The vet took her temperature and did blood tests. Marci's temp was 104.7 and all her blood work was crazy.

The vet sent us to another vet to have an ultrasound. The ultrasound showed a very large liver mass! The doctor said she would probably die in 2 days and said she was in severe pain. We chose to end her pain and have her put to sleep. It was the hardest and saddest thing we have had to do!

Marci was such a great loving dog. I just can't believe I took her to get some medicine and didn't get to bring her back home. It came on so quickly! We have such a big hole in our heart! We miss her sooooo much!
Jul 20, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		It's only going to get worse
by: Debra

My Shar Pei, Bo was 12 years, 8 months and 10 days old when I found out that he had liver cancer. He was like your dog. Very active, his appetite was like always, he was even able to jump on the bed and sleep with me.

That is until 07/16/10. He all of a sudden had trouble walking. He would be standing and just plop down as if he was totally exhausted. He just stopped eating instantly and could not even walk for any distance. For 2 days he could barely walk far enough out the front door to use the restroom. The next 2 days, I was having to carry him to let him go outside. He went down so quickly.

I had just taken him to the vet the middle of June for his yearly checkup and everything was fine. This cancer stricks quickly. I loved Bo just as I am sure you love your dog. Just be sure to watch for the signs. They come on very quickly and once they do, then there is no hope left.

I had to put Bo to sleep today. The vet said that if I didn't, he would probably die during the night. I have seen dogs die before, and I could not stand the thought of seeing or hearing Bo go through that. I could tell he was in pain. That's why I choose to have him put out of his pain.
Jul 14, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Patches has Liver Cancer
by: M. Seternus

I have a 12 yr old mix breed of bassett hound-black lab male named Patches and he has been diagnosed with this. I dread the day when I have to put him down. I know it will be one of the worst days of my life; it will be liking losing one of my children.

He was a very active older dog up until a few months ago when I found out his liver enzymes were way up and an ultrasound found out a mass in his liver. However, he has not lost his appetite nor lost any weight yet, but drinks a lot and urinates a lot as well and I know these are signs.

I do not know how much longer he has nor does my vet, but whatever time he has I am making it as happy as I can and showing him all the love he is so deserving of.
Jul 12, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Dog Sasha May Have Liver Cancer
by: Catherine Purcell

I have a long-hair chihuahua & pomeranian mix.

She has been losing weight and we had to take her to the Vet. She had high liver counts. The Vet said it might be liver cancer. I could not believe we would have to put to sleep our baby girl we have had for 12 years. This Wednesday at 3:00 we will know if we have to let her go to sleep.

She is so precious but I don't want her to suffer. We love her so much. There will never be another Sasha. She always follows me wherever I go and waits by the bathroom door smelling if it is me. She has been my companion - how can I put her to sleep. I'm so upset and so is my husband.

I know it will be the hardest decision we ever have to make.
Jul 02, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		my dog might have this
by: Anonymous

My vet just told us that our sweet 12 year old dog might have liver cancer. He is half lab and half sheltie. He just recently started losing his appetite and having more fatigue. Of course, here in Texas it is HOT so the heat might be affecting him as well.

Two weeks ago he had x-rays done because the vet felt some kind of enlargement but didn't see any cancer on the x-rays, liver counts were high. We put him on an antibiotic and his appetite has come back and he has more energy. Back to the vet today and his liver counts are even higher. She feels he has liver cancer based on the results of the bloodwork.

I am starting my internet research and found this site. So hard to read these posts of people that have lost their beloved pets. We have grieved the loss of pets before and it's so hard to go through! My prayers are with those that have had to go through this. My vet recommended milk thistle and is researching the dosage our dog can handle. If anyone knows of anything herbal or homeopathic, etc that would make our dog more comfortable feel free to let us know.
Jun 26, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My best frriend
by: Carl and Vicki

As I was searching the internet about liver cancer in dogs I ended up on this site.

As I write this, my best friend, a 10 year old male cocker named Scrappy, is with me on the floor dying of this cancer. As others on this site have said, It came on suddenly - less than a week ago even though 2 months ago he got a clean bill of health from his yearly check up.

We decided to take him to the vets this morning to be put to sleep but the doctor is out until Monday.

He is still having good moments and I am sleeping on the living room floor with him because he likes to sleep with me.

My wife, our 18 year old son, and I have been crying 3 days. He is such a part of our life. He is always by me when I am home and we always make sure there is time for him whether a walk, playing ball, or a ride in the car. Our hearts are breaking as we watch this once 10 year old puppy leave us. We already feel the hole in our lives knowing he is not going to be there. We are going to miss him so much. I only hope God has a little spot in heaven for all of our beloved pets and friends.

Thank you for letting me share this with you all.
Jun 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lost the love of my life
by: pat and joann

Yesterday our 14 yr. old papoo named Mr. Peabody passed away from liver cancer.

It was a rapid decline. It started about a week ago with him taking a stroll from the living room to the kitchen for water when he suddenly went down on his side and lost his bowel functions. We ran and picked him up and his body was limp but he was breathing and his eyes were open. After a few minutes he was fine. The vet thought it was his heart and gave us some pills for him to take.

A few days later his legs seemed wobbly and he lost his energy. His appetite stopped and he was drinking water and urinating excessively. The next day when we got home from work he would not move and was shaking like a leaf. As we went to pick him up we noticied this dry yellow vomit on his fur. We took him to the vet and an x-ray showed a huge mass by his liver. The doctor said because of his age and rapid decline that Mr. Peabody would only live to suffer terrible pain.

I love him too much to put him through that. We held him in our arms and kissed him goodbye as the doctor injected the sedative and then the lethal dose thru the catheter. We could not bear to bring his little body home with us so my brother who is an animal control officer picked him up and brought him back to our house in a small coffin box. He is buried in our back yard in a little grotto I made under our St. Theresa statue. I AM DEVASTED AND WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN.
May 31, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lucky
by: Anonymous

I am very sad as I read your stories. However, please do not give up on your dogs. There are herbal remedies, supplements, and dietary changes that may help prolong your dog's life.

My dog was diagnosed with a liver mass 2 months ago. She is on a raw diet plus cottage cheese and flax oil. I have also added essiac, CAS options, yunnan baiyao, digestive enzymes, milk thistle, probiotics, and vitamins.

Recently, the mass might have enlarged, but it does not seem to have spread to other organs. I may elect for surgery to have the mass removed. We have not biopsied it yet.

I also have given my dog reiki (I do this several times each day).

I know my dog will pull through this.
May 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Comes too Quick
by: Sherri

I just found this website. My bloodhound Tabby (12) has either liver disease or liver cancer. As everyone stated it comes on really quick.

She was fine a few months ago but then last week stopped eating and the blood work shows her liver counts are off the charts. She was put on meds and she began eating again but then this Sunday she stopped eating and started getting sick with running poop. I rushed her to the vet this morning and they will give her IV treatments for 24-48 hours to see if it can be turned around.

The vet really feels it is very advanced but says IV treatments are worth a shot since she is holding her meds and water down. Just don't want her to think I am abandoning her at the vets and don't want her to suffer. Time is too short with our fur-kids.
May 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Too fast
by: ron

My dog Rex (9yo Shelti) was acting a little weak 3 months ago. Took him to the vet and was told that his liver was slightly enlarged, but since he was in no pain and acted like everything was alright, blood work didn't show anything, to take him home and watch him.

A few weeks ago, he looked like he had gained weight and was having trouble jumping up or down from the car and going up or down steps. I took him back to the vet and his liver had gotten larger. The vet took some samples of his liver and called me back and confirmed that he had cancer in his liver. I went to talk to her and was told to let him do anything he wanted and eat what he could. We were told that we maybe had about 2 months before we had to think about putting him down.

That was 2 weeks ago. Friday the 21st of May, we went back to the vet as he had gotten larger. Our vet told us that he may have 2 weeks or so. Took Rex home where he was happy and even played with his ball and took some treats.

Saturday morning when I got up to let him and the other dogs out, Rex could not move. I tried calling a vet to take him to as he was in pain to no avail. He died in my arms at 7:15 am. He was the best dog I have ever raised and he trusted me. I failed in my part to take care of him. Rex died in pain because I wanted more time with him.
May 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Griz has liver cancer
by: Anonymous

Our rescue chow cross who is 13 was diagnosed with liver cancer a week ago. We will have to have him put down in a few days....this is so hard to play God, we had to put another dog down a year ago. I am not looking forward to that day again.

My hear goes out to all of you that have lost pets too.

My brother says that dogs don't live long so we can give our love to another dog. It's not the same but does help some.
Apr 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry Becky
by: Melissa

My heart goes out to you, Becky, and all of the rest of you who have posted your stories here. When I wrote recently about my Lexus I failed to mention my thanx for your brave posts. It takes a lot of heart and energy to write about our beloved pets who are going thru painful diseases or who have passed already. May God bless our precious ones and each of you as well. For now Lexus seems stable. I can only pray she stays so for a long time. She's such a sweet, loving dog. I just don't know what I'll do without her.
Apr 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My baby now sleeping
by: Becky

I posted on 8th April about my baby having this awful terminal illness. I had to make the most hardest decision yesterday and let her go as she had stopped eating and was losing weight fast. Chloe had just short of 3 weeks with us after being diagnosed.

My heart feels so empty, its breaking into a million pieces.

Sleep tight my baby, mummy loves you xxxxxxxxx
Apr 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstar 		My Lexus May Have Liver Cancer
by: Melissa

At first my girl was sleeping more. We attributed that to her getting a little older. Then she became so lethargic she wouldn't even move. Four days in the hospital - IV antibiotics and fluids. She came home seemingly recovered from an unknown infection. Her liver enzymes were sky high. One month on Denamrin and the bloodwork still showed high levels. A recent ultrasound of her abdomen showed what the Xray didn't. A moderate sized mass in her liver, a small mass in her spleen and enlarged lymph nodes. Probably cancer due to her age and symptoms we were told.

She sometimes won't eat; other times her appetite is voratious. Some days she vomits repeatedly; other days nothing. The vet said surgery may not get it all since we don't know where it started. Probably metastasized from elsewhere. The only sane and merciful option now is to keep her comfortable until it's either time to give her back to God or she passes on her own.

My heart is breaking more and more every minute. I feel horrible for not pursuing every known possible option. But also have to remember it's not about me.
Apr 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Jessica
by: Anonymous

I am so very sorry to hear about Mr. Tippy. I am also sorry that you just lost your other baby too... It was fast for Reno as well, and I was definitely not ready for that. I am sending you loads of prayers and tons of well wishes for strength at what you are going through now. I still have an unpatchable hole in my heart.

Apr 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Tippy
by: Kimmy Kay

I am so sorry. Those symptoms sound just like the one's my baby started having Thursday, and today the vet noticed the jaundice, and they are keeping her overnight. He did the ultrasound, seen it, I know it, and she is 15. I am devastated. Her sister, Punkin, was 16, and we had to put her down same time last year due to kidney failure. The sudden onset of this is mindboggling. We just had her teeth cleaned and blood work last month done, and she was fine, very healthy. Now a month later, on the verge of death? I don't get it.

I'm so sorry about your baby. It is so hard. My prayers and thoughts go out to you, and thank you for this page.

Sincerely
Kimmy, Todd, and Tippy Brown - Florida Keys
Apr 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I feel your ache.
by: Grieving Friend

This past April 8th, I was forced to make that gut-wrenching decision. I watched as my dog of 14 years was placed into her final rest.

Molly was the best and greatest dog I could ever have hoped for. She was my best friend from the age of 10. We grew up together, laughed together, played together, suffered together. I thought her invincible.

And so, five months ago, when the symptoms became more pronounced (lethargy/depression, quick, shallow breathing, restlessness), we simply chalked it up to her 'getting older'.

We finally only realized something was amiss when she began vomiting more than usual two weeks ago. We made an appointment with our Vet but then canceled it when it seemed her condition improved.

Then on Easter evening, we came home from a family party to find her laying in a pile of her own fecal matter. Her eyes looked sunken in and exhausted.

Yet even still, with failing, ailing back legs, she made the trip up our long flight of stairs to sleep at the foot of my parents' bed, struggling all the way, just as she always had for years.

On that Tuesday our Vet did a blood work-up on her, and discovered heightened presences of liver/pancreatic enzymes in her blood, as well as white blood cells well above norm.

This alone was not enough to truly peg down what was ailing her.. until Thursday.

And so it was with horror I laid eyes on the results of the Ultrasound.

Her liver had expanded to over 5x it's own size, to the extent that it was displacing every single other organ in her abdomen and chest.

We suddenly realized the cause of all those times she would clenched her teeth and grimace. All those times she would lose her footing and fall, only to pull herself back up.

It was then our Vet laid down the second blow: Another tumor was growing steadily in her spleen.

We were then forced to make a terrible, heart-wrenching decision.

We had no other recourse but to do what we felt was right and put her to sleep.

I hope we made the right decision, and I pray that she is at peace and can understand why we felt forced to do what we did. We hope she did not linger in pain for very long. I hope she gained even a small amount of comfort by our presence in the room, petting her and weeping over her, saying our final goodbyes as the sedative laid her to her final rest.

This loss has utterly gutted me to my very core. The quiet of our home is deafening and haunting without her presence.

I write this only in the hopes that it reaches others and helps them know that they do not carry the pain of losing a precious loved one alone. I write this in the hopes that it reaches others before it is too late to act.

Do not wait. Do not make excuses. Love in the moment, act in the moment... because tomorrow may be too late.

God bless you, and God bless my dog.
Apr 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My heart is breaking into a thousand pieces
by: Le-anne

My 12yo baby girl is also failing to a liver cancer or disease. I hear your pain as my heart is breaking into a million pieces. I can't imagine a world without her. She has touched so many lives with her gentle loving nature. I will love my Ellie forever.
Apr 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Baby still fightng
by: Anonymous

Hi All,

My Staffie is 12 years old and collapsed on easter Sunday. I rushed her to the vets where she had endless x-rays etc and injections. I was told it was either kidney failure, a tumour or blood infection as she was very weak and anemic. I brought my dog home to see how she went and took her back on Tuesday for a check to be told she had a liver tumour and there was nothing more they could do. I was advised to take her home and make sure she was comfortable and spoil her as she did not have long left.

I'm pleased to say that at this moment she is still with us fighting every day. She is drinkng and eating and the vet has assured me that she is in no pain but I'm dreading when the time comes when I may have to make the decision to end her misery, which i will do if she stops eating or gets any worse.
Apr 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update on Aus. Cattle Dog Sydney-Another Sad Story
by: Samantha

I posted earlier about my Australian Cattle Dog Sydney - here is my update.

As I stated earlier, last Wednesday we started her on Prednisone, antibiotics and a supplement to boost liver functions called Denamarin (Sam-E and milk thistle combined). If you read the post below, you know that I called the vet and he okay'd me crushing her pills and putting it in her new i/d food.

Sydney seemed to be doing ok. My daughter, husband and I spent quality time with her. She felt well enough to play a little and explore outside and was eating her meals with vigor! From Wednesday thru the weekend (Easter), we loved on her as much as we could and she was enjoying all the attention.

By Monday she got wise to the pills presence and refused her food, but would eat anything else. In my search for a better way to give them, I found that not only should you NOT BREAK DENAMARIN because it's meant to pass thru the stomach and dissolve in the intestines, but it should also not be given with a meal. I bought some pill pockets to give her pills in and that worked for one dose. She was becoming more jaundice and weaker all of the sudden. We also noticed that her abdomen was swollen from fluid. That night she couldn't even jump on the couch to lay with me like she always does. She didn't sleep much that night and her breathing got shallow and short. I thought every breath might be her last, so I made a bed for myself next to hers and lay with her.

Tuesday morning (one week from diagnosis) she didn't want to get up much and wouldn't eat a piece of cheese (her favorite thing in the world!). She was telling us it was time.

We promised ourselves we wouldn't be selfish, and we wouldn't let her suffer. At noon we took her to the vets and made the hardest decision any pet owner can make, and we put her to sleep. We held her head and kissed her telling her what a good dog she was as she quickly drifted into the most peaceful sleep. It was the hardest decision, but I know it was the right one.

We haven't been without a dog in 15 years, my 10yo daughter is on a ski trip with her grandparents and I am alone here in a house without my shadow. The hole in my heart is so deep it will take a long time to heal.

To all of you who lost your babies, I feel your grief. I have to go now, because I can't stop crying.
Apr 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Harry Love My Maltese Terrier
by: Kim J

I got Harry off the streets 6 years ago. This dog sleeps with me, licks my legs after I come out of the shower and never leaves my side when I am home.

Last week he had trouble jumping on the bed and I really didn't think anything of it. Then he had some loose bowels. Harry started looking a little sad and tired, but still not thinking anything wrong.

My son called me at work and said that Harry's stomach is very swollen, I said to my son take him to the Vet right away.

The vet said that it is probably liver cancer because there is a mass on the x-ray. I don't want Harry to suffer and he spent the night with me last night at my job and he is not himself.

The decision to put him to sleep is gut wrenching. I love this dog with all my heart. But he is not himself and to keep him because I don't want to feel devastated is selfish.

I love you Harry, you have been my friend and loved me unconditionally.

So for those of you that need to make a decision, you are not alone. My prayers are with you.

Kim
Apr 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Reply to Kim
by: Anonymous

Kim,

I believe 12 years old is pretty old for a large dog. Here is a link to a Siberian Husky web page that says the avg. life expectancy is 11-13 years.

http://www.breederretriever.com/dog-breeds/212/siberian-husky.php

Brutus, my Alaskan Malamute, died of liver cancer at 9 years which is under his life expectancy

I'm so sorry to hear about all the stories on here. Like one of the others who left a comment on here, I'm amazed at how similar our stories are.


Apr 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Another Sad Story
by: Samantha

We all must be here looking for comfort or knowledge. It looks as though our sweet and often intense 13 yo Austrailian Cattledog, Sydney, has liver cancer.

Looking back over the last month, I realize there were fews hints. She became very obsessed with people food. I thought it was a result of her accidentally getting locked in our pantry one night while we were out. She got into anything she could open on the shelves she could reach. We noticed she wasn't eating her own food and thought she was just holding out for something better! We also thought perhaps her food was stale, so we got a new bag and she began to eat better.

Then we realized she had lost weight and she was acting depressed.

I took her to the vets for a work-up. On x-ray her heart and lungs looked great. But we got a call the next day that her liver panel was very high. An ultrasound revealed a mottled liver and fluid in her abdomen. The vet says the liver looks diseased, not inflammed.

We started her yesterday on Prednisone, Antibiotics and Denamarin (to boost liver health). Now the problem is she vomits occasionally and her food and pills are undigested. I have started crushing her pills and putting it in I/D canned food. If she can't digest the meds., we won't know if they can help.

The vet has said that if we see improvement in blood work in 2 wks then there may be enough good liver to keep her going a little longer. If not then there isn't much hope.

I guess the hardest thing is she seems better at times, but realistically I think we are facing the inevitable and I know it won't be much longer. I'm trying to prepare my 9yo daughter. I don't want to take her in for the big "sleep", but I don't want to see her start to suffer at home.

She's been my shadow for sooo long, always at my feet no matter where I am or what I'm doing. I sure am going to miss that..:(
Apr 01, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Liver Cancer or virus
by: Kim

My heart goes out to you all.

Three weeks ago we had to put our male dog down at 16 yrs. He lived a long happy life, and died of old age.

Then two days ago we had to put our 12 yr old Siberian Husky down. We are beside ourselves. The Vet told us it was either Liver Cancer or that Leptospirosis virus that they can get from wildlife urinatiation. We have an inground pool and hope and pray that it wasn't from drinking out of the top of the winter cover as that can't be avoided at times. He also would find a field mouse at times and not eat it but play with it. We live beside the woods. He had all his shots but not all strains are protected by the vaccine.

Another Vet said he thought it may be liver cancer. The blood work showed his white blood cells were ten times what they should be and he was anemic. I am spinning around trying to know for sure but there was no time to further test. He passed away at our house before we knew what even hit us.

Two dogs in one month. We are heart broken. We did have him cremated but did not do an autopsy. He did not vomit or have diarrhea. He did drink water like crazy in the end though.

Does anyone have any input? Or does anyone know if 12 yrs old is very old for a large dog?

Prayers to you all.
Mar 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Jazz
by: Sterling

Thank you for sharing your story.

I just lost my best friend of 10 and a half years to liver cancer on 3-29-10. Jazz, my American bulldog was my confidant, therapist, protector and best friend. My experience almost mirrored yours in that the final symptoms came on so quickly. In a matter of 10 days he went from an athletic, happy, frisky boy to refusing food, blood in stool and urine, pale gums and hair loss. The doctors found 7 masses on his liver and blood pooling into his stomach. He was in so much pain at the end it crushed me. I'm still in shock and am crying as I type this. I still look over my shoulder and expect him to be there, I still wait for him to climb into bed with me at night. I know the pain will ease with time and appreciate all the stories posted here.

My prayers to you all.
Mar 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Know how you feel
by: Katie

I'm so sorry to read all of these comments but I am in the same shoes.

Two weeks ago today we found out our 12 year old labrador retriever has liver cancer. She had been losing weight over the winter, although she has always been thin. At her regular vet appointment in November she got a clean bill of health and the vet was amazed at how healthy she was. She had her spleen removed 4 years ago for benign tumors and had been extremely happy and health since.

Two weeks ago I noticed a swollen belly and took her to the vet immediately and a needle removed bile from her abdomen. Apparently the baseball sized tumor was "sweating". We brought her home after x-rays confirmed the tumor and started her on 2 meds; lasix and prednisone.

Two weeks later she seems very happy and is eating well, drinking well and going for 2-3 long walks a day. Even the vet is surprised and I went back today for more medicine, cutting her dosage of lasix in half. We have our fingers crossed and are enjoying every day we have with our sweet girl. I know when the time comes it will be the most difficult day but I'm really grateful to have this time to spend.
Mar 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I'm so sorry
by: Jessica

It really saddens me that this post has gotten so many comments. I wish all the best to all of you. I am so sorry to hear about your lil Yorkie Max. I am also so very sorry for those on this post that are facing the disease, but your loss is inevitable.

They become more than a pet to us; they are our babies, our friends. They are so loyal. It really does make me sad that there are so many others with the same story. My prayers and good karma to all of you.
Mar 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Our Yorkie Max just passed yesterday to liver cancer.
by: Greg

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our little guy Max was a just under 5 year old Yorkie who loved life to the fullest. Last Friday night he started throwing up his food and by Saturday he seemed very lethargic and depressed. We took him to the vet and they put him on an IV drip and gave him an ultrasound. The ultrasound showed inflammation of the liver and pancreas in which they thought it could be caused by pancreatitis or an issue with the liver. They ultimately stuck a needle in his liver to take a small sample. Our little guy was so brave and never winced.

Unfortunately our greatest fears were realized. The biopsy came back liver cancer. Our vet decided based on further ultrasounds that there was a chance that they could remove the mass in his liver and give him at least 6 months more of a good quality life. She told us of the risks that if it looked like it had spread that euthanizing would be the humane option.

We were so sad but knew this was our last chance and if they could remove that he would have a shot. We were with him up until they put him under anesthesia and kissed and hugged him and told him how much we loved him.

We got a call an hour later. Tumors were found throughout his little body so we knew we would never see our little guy again. I miss waking up in the morning and having him come up and lay on my chest and seeing that little nub of a tail wagging no matter what kind of day I had. He will be loved by myself and my fiancee Jeannie and will always be in our hearts.

Once again he was only 5 and was taking away from us way too fast. We are completely devastated and still in shock. Just remember to never take your little ones for granted and to love them every minute they are on this earth!
Mar 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My gorgeous girl
by: Storm

Hi guys

I am in absolute floods of tears reading your posts...

My baby is a 12 year old german shepherd and she has been off her food for a few days, which I put down to being fussy and wanting more treats!
Then 3 days ago I found a lump in her abdomen (It wasnt there the day prior as she gets daily tummy rubs!) I took her straight to the vets - who admitted her for tests there and then.

I left my sweet girl and cried all the way home. The vet rung later that afternoon to say a mass was showing on her spleen and liver, but without exploratory surgery she could not speculate as to what it might be.

I did NOT want to put her through surgery, but felt I had no choice.... what if it was something that could be cured at an early stage??

The vet rung me a few hours later to say that the her liver was just one big tumour and it was stuck to the spleen.......... and did I want her to wake up after surgery.

Hubby and I agreed that her quality of life is still amazing at the moment - no symptoms of illness (apart from being off her food) - so we asked for her to come home.

We picked my Petra up this morning at 8 am (after being up all night crying), and she is sore today obviously from the surgery - but amazingly as bright as a button and eating everything in sight!
The vet said it is only a matter of time before the symptoms of the cancer begin to show and then we will have to make the call - but at the minute I am hoping and praying for a little bit longer with my best friend.

I know when the time comes - I want the vet to come here and she can go to sleep in her own bed, with her teddy and blanket, and mum and dad holding her.

I'm crying now....

God give me strength not to be selfish when she needs to be at peace.

My thoughts are with all of you with our fur babies suffering from this vicious form of cancer.
Mar 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Duncan has liver cancer
by: Connie Olson

Thank you for sharing your story...Our Scottish Terrier Duncan - 10 1/2 yrs old - has to leave us this Saturday 3/20/10. We just found out today from an ultrasound that his liver is totally full of cancer.

I'm crying also as I write this. God bless your little baby and our Duncan MacGregor.
Mar 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Liver problems
by: Anonymous

It is hard to know what is causing my dog's liver problems. The vet says bacterial hepatitis but it can also be caused by cancer. She is 15 so I do not know if she can fight, she is in the hospital this weekend and has lost so much weight. She was always a very hungry dog and just started being picky about her food two weeks ago. Has anyone else been told it was hepatitis? I do not know how far to go to get a diagnosis of cancer at this stage.
Mar 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Nico
by: Barbara

We just found out that our little Nico, 13 yr old Maltese, has nodgules on his spleen and liver. He has no signs of illness and the only way to find out if it's indeed cancer is to do surgery. I can't bear to put him through that, but what if it helps him live a few more years? They said they would remove the spleen and biopsy the liver, if we decide not to - it could rupture. I feel for all of you that are going through this as well. I can't stand the thought of losing him. Do I do the surgery or let him enjoy the rest of his days and hope for the best?
Mar 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Our Heroes
by: Cat

I just lost my 12 year old Beagle to liver cancer a week and a half ago, and I am devastated. It is amazing how all of our stories are similar. Certain cancers such as organ/liver cancers are very hard to detect early?even in humans. Our pets cannot speak or let us know that there is something wrong. I take comfort in knowing that in the early and mid stages of liver cancer there are not any severe symptoms and so our dogs still had wonderful qualities of life, eating, playing, feeling safe and secure, enjoying our company, walks, etc. In the latter stages is when all the serious symptoms usually occur.

My Beagle had symptoms one year ago of pain in the back, low levels of specific gravity, and high cortisol levels. Unfortunately, we could not find out why she had these symptoms, after several lab results and doing x-rays, we also had no access to ultrasounds.

My dog?s symptoms during the last month were lack of eating; only eating treats. The last week she did not eat well at all and started to vomit and have diarrhea and that is when we did the x-ray and seen a mass close to the spleen and liver. Right until five days before we decided to do exploratory surgery (blood, urine, fecal, tests were all fine).

It is amazing before she started to vomit how she still wanted her walks, was jumping on the couch, begging for a treat, following me around, trying to play, and asking for a belly rub. Now how many humans do that when they are very ill? During the surgery the Vet seen the tumor and it looked malignant and it had metastasized so we opted not to wake her up and put her to sleep (out of pain).

It touches me deeply to know that our pets will give themselves to us completely right until the end!

Please remember if you have lost your pet, that your pet gave you as much as she or he could in his or her lifetime, and for him or her it was complete. And for us we feel it was not complete, and that?s why we mourn. Our pets are out heroes!
Mar 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Our Cooper has liver cancer/tumor/jaundice
by: Mary Ann

Yesterday we took our dear baby Cooper a 12 year old Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier retired champion show dog to a vet in Arrowhead because he had not eaten in 6 days and was vomiting every half hour the first of those 6 days.
The vet said he was jaundiced and blood work came back with anemia and other signs of a cancerous tumor on his liver. The vet asked us if we wanted to hospitalize him and start ex-rays sonogram, surgery and chemo, and if not think about putting him down.
It was the saddest day of our lives for my husband and I. We took Cooper home and cried most of the day and through our tears immediately went searching for more information and found a health food store in Blue Jay "Carsons Herbals" on HWY 189 and the herbalist Katie Carson has made a liver cancer tea " Essiac with milk thistle for 14 years with good results in dogs and humans.
I started him on it yesterday along with the anti-vomit pills, and he actually ate 4 little bite sized pieces of chicken I baked for him with onions and a little pepper! We were overjoyed it was the first food he had in a week.
I added the tea to his water and get him to drink every 2 hours or so to keep him flushed and hydrated. The herbalist gave me gentle liquid vitamins/herbs and a dropper to give him once a day too.
His urine is dark yellow, and he still is getting up every 8 hours or so to urinate outside.
Watching him in this state is heartbreaking. We have never felt this kind of excruciating grief at the possibility of life without Cooper.
I pray for all of you dog parents that have lost your babies or are suffering with very sick dogs as I am now. My heart breaks for you all as I read your stories.
I will keep you posted if this Essiac tea has good results.
Please keep Cooper in your prayers thank you : )
Mar 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		update on Petey
by: Regina

Oh Rhonda I am so sorry... My heart aches for you for I too was in the same state a week ago, unable to breath or speak without breaking down. My Petey made it through surgery. Our biopsy came back yesterday and the margins were clean. Petey is now cancer free. A huge sigh of relief and I feel truly blessed to have my sweet brittany for as long as the lord will allow.

I hope that your outcome will be a good one. Just know that your special dog loves you. The support of family and friends helped me immensely, and I hope you have a good support system. Hang in there, I will be praying for you and Riley.
Mar 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Riley and probable liver cancer
by: Rhonda

Well I am reading all of the posts and just can't believe maybe I am going to lose another dog to cancer in just three years time. Our dog Kemo was 6 and he died of leukimia Nov of '06. We got Riley in Dec '06 and he had a liver biopsy today but the vet said the liver looks lumpy and that is usually cancer. If it is I too would like to know how long he might have so I can arrange for the same mobile vet to put him down at his own home with his mommy holding him. I am crying so bad I can't breathe and can hardly deal with this. He is such a special dog, such a goofball with so much personality. Oh GOD I don't want to lose him. I pray that there is some chance or miracle.
Feb 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Brutus
by: Carrie

I lost my big teddy bear of a dog, Brutus on Feb. 22, 2010. He was a large, beautiful nine year-old Alaskan Malamute. He started not being as interested in eating his food but he still ate treats and cat food and would search for any people food laying around. I finally took him in to the vet and they checked him out and gave him his annual shots. The vet really couldn't tell that anything was wrong but at the end of the visit she asked if I wanted to get lab work done to make sure. I agreed.

The lab work came back with really high levels of a liver enzyme. She really didn't suspect cancer though because the calcium level was only slightly elevated. She gave me some pills to give him and I was to have him rechecked in a month. I took him in last Sat. for his recheck and the results weren't good. His liver enzyme was still off the chart, his kidney values were elevated, the calcium had increased, and he was slightly anemic.

The vet then suspected cancer and felt around his back and sides, commenting that his weight loss was more than just fat, he had lost a lot of muscle. She said to bring him back on Mon. for an abdominal x-ray to see if it was something that can be treated.

On Sunday, I almost took him to the emergency animal clinic because he wouldn't eat even treats and his breathing looked labored. I even loaded him in the car but when we got to the clinic, he noticed a dog in the street and seemed interested in going after it. I decided that he didn't seem that sick at the moment and that he could make it until the next day. We went to the park for a walk and he even started jogging.

The x-ray the following morning showed a large mass in his abdomen but they weren't sure which organ it was on. The vet said that they could do exploratory surgery to see if it was something that could be operated on but if it wasn't, she would recommend putting him down. I agreed to the surgery and left work and went to the clinic to see him before the scheduled surgery. I took him to the park and to PetsMart. He actually seemed pretty normal. As he went up to greet people in the park, I couldn't believe that this was quite possibly his last day alive.

It wasn't long into the surgery before they called me into the exam room. I knew then it wasn't good news. The young vet said it was the largest tumor that she had ever seen and she was surprised he was still alive with a tumor that large in him. That's my boy though, big and strong. Both of the vets told me the tumor had started to bleed and I was lucky I had him there because he could have bled to death at home anytime. If they had tried to remove the tumor, they probably couldn't get it all and there wouldn't be much liver left. He would most likely go into liver failure.

I feel a lot of guilt about not taking him in sooner before the tumor got so big. Thank you for reading this. I'm also sorry for all of you who have lost your dogs to this disease.
Feb 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Battling Liver Cancer
by: Regina

Dear Ellen,
I too am feeling your pain and my heart goes out to you. My almost 12yr old Brittany was diagnosed with liver cancer as well. After a very trying week of Dr appts. and tests, he had surgery yesterday to remove the mass. The surgeon said it was one of the most difficult surgeries of its kind that he has ever done. I questioned my choice to go ahead with the surgery but my regular vet reassured me that it was in fact the best thing for him. He is in the ICU, and it is very difficult to see him in that state. Right after surgery I was able to visit with him. I talked to him and sang the jingle I always do featuring his name with several rhyming variations of his name. He responded by increasing his heart rate. His prognosis is 6 months to a few years. I love that ol' dog more than words can say and I will do everything in my power to ensure that the remainder of his days in this life are joyful and painfree.
Feb 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		TO ELLEN
by: Jessica

Ellen,
I am so sorry that you have to go through this. I am thankful; on one hand that my baby was at home when he passed away. I was at the point that I knew I was going to take him in the next day to be put to sleep, but it was so hard to make that choice that day. I was still holding out hope that it was something else, as the vet (not my regular vet) wasn't sure (it was a Sunday) and his blood work person was out.

After I knew, I did give him Advil to help ease the pain as much as I could. We were packing up his stuff to go the vet's office at 12:30 midnite when he started to relieve himself, I knew what was about to happen, so I held him the entire time... But, I am thankful that he was in my arms, with his blanket, with his favorite toy and with his family when he moved on. I would like to send you a dozen prayers right now, and am so very, very sorry for your loss.
Feb 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Tilly
by: Ellen

I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Reno. It is never easy. I am at this site because my 14 yr old furry buddy has cancer to her spleen and liver, and I am heart broken. I want to bring her home because I need to finish cuddling with her. I just don't want her to suffer so I am checking things out to see how much time she would have. Thanks for this forum. My heart goes out to all you dog parents.
Feb 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heart broken in St. Louis
by: Nancy

I am right now feeling your pain. I just lost my 12 year old lakeland terrier. He woke up Wed. morning and was walking kinda funny. I thought it was old age, I've seen him walk like that before. But this was different. He went outside to go to the bathroom and just stood there shaking in the cold. He wouldn't come when I called him so I ran out and picked him up. I put him on his bed where he just stood there. Kinda like a statue. I kept an eye on him and after a while I thought this is not right and took him in to the vet. The blood test showed very high levels in his liver and the vet wanted me to take him to this specialist and get an ultrasound. The specialist came out and took me into this room (not good) and told me he had this large mass (tumor) on the outside of his liver and she also thought the liver ruptured because there was something elevated in his spleen too. She told me they could operate and clean it out but given his age and a great possibility that the tumor was cancer, he would probable be in a lot of pain in recovering and in his old age. I am completely devastated!!!! All this in 1 day. He was never sick in all the 12 years I had him....I am in complete shock!!!! I loved that dog so much.....
Feb 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		We understand
by: Erin in MN

I am so sorry for your loss. We just experienced the sudden, sudden loss of our Wheaten Terrier named Millie to liver cancer. She was only 2 1/2 years old.

The vet said the cause was most likely careless breeding, but we didn't care why or how, all we knew at that time was that our baby girl (we have no children or other pets) was gone. She was our first pet together after being married 2 years, and was our pride and joy.

The vet treated her for a bladder infection weeks prior to this, and we were informed the symptoms explained in the media I've read on the subject were due to the antibiotics. Had we only known...although her cancer was at a very late stage apparently.

She was the love of our lives, and it is amazing how you go from constantly asking them to move, or playing with them, or petting them, or walking with them...to picking their ashes up at the vet and paying the $1500 bill for the surgery.

Our vet recommended a therapist who deals specifically with pet loss, and we have an appt. with her in two days. We never knew such a job existed, but now we know all too well why it does.

I send my love to all of the dog owners who have lost their dogs to this terrible disease, and I'm happy to donate to the cause so in the future other pets can live longer, stronger lives.
Feb 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you for your support
by: Jessica Lansberry

Thank you so much for your very kind words and blessings. Rick and Brenda and Hazel, I am so very sorry that you have went through this too.

I would like to send you my prayers and blessings as well, and hope for the very best to you all.

To be honest, there is a never a time that you would choose to lose your loved one. Whether a puppy or a senior dog.

God Bless to you.
Feb 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Prayers for you during this very difficult time
by: Rick and Brenda

Bless you and your lil Reno Casino! Tears are covering the keyboard just reading your story. It was just a very short three months ago that we lost the love of our life our 12-year-old Sandy to liver cancer and we understand and feel every pain you are going thru right now. Please please please know that you are not alone and though the pain never goes away it does get easier to live with and the beautiful memories do start to overpower the torment. You and your beautiful baby are in our constant thoughts and prayers!!
God bless!
Feb 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sorry about your loss
by: Hazel

Hi, Jessica,

I am so sorry to read your story about little Reno Casino. It must have been hard to accept the fact because as you said it was so sudden and so fast. But in time you will feel better and we are all here to support you.

I know that liver cancer at its early stage does not have distinct symptoms, and when the symptoms show, usually it is too late to do anything. However, I was still surprised to hear that everything happened so fast...

I really appreciate your taking the time to write about Reno's conditions - it must have been hard but I am sure many dog parents will find the information useful. I have put a link of my page on Liver Cancer in Dogs to your page, so that more people can read about this horrible disease.

On behalf of all dog parents, thank you for your information.

Take care and, don't forget, you are not alone. We dog parents and dog lovers are all here for you!

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