Lost my baby to liver cancer
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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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Jan 16, 2020
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starstarstarstarstar 		So very sorry, Sweetie
by: Deb

So sorry to hear of your cherished furry family member, Sweetie. I know it's so hard. All we can do is take care of them the very best we can, and most important to know when to let them go. Your daughter will see that in time. It's one of the most difficult, but special of memories we've shared with the furry family members and our cherished children we so so loved. Hang in there and know you are not alone. 🙏🏻💛
Jan 15, 2020
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pomeranian just got diagnosed with liver cancer
by: Sincere

Hi,

I am sorry for your loss. I am dealing with this now with my 16-year-old pomeranian. We were just told that he has liver cancer. My daughter is taking it hard, I am too. She doesn't want to let him go.

Please pray for my family.

Thank you!
Jul 27, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		So very sorry
by: Carol

So very sorry to hear about Bella. She sounds like such a wonderful furry family member to have had. I was a proud Aunt to an old English sheepdog. Just adored him. Hoping the best of memories will be the only ones to surround you. 💛
Jul 27, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Reply
by: Carol

I just lost my sweet Bella a 7 yr old, Old English Sheep dog July 25, 2019. She was diagnosed with liver cancer in all of her liver nodes July 13, 2019. Unfortunately it had spread to other organs.

She was a special girl, always by my side when we went for our daily walks. She was loved by everyone we came in contact with. She would go up to them to say hi and be petted. I will miss my beloved companion dearly. As in the poem, Rainbow Bridge, someday we will be together again.

God Bless.
Feb 01, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry Jill & Harley
by: Deb

So very sorry you are going through this. Thoughts & prayers are with you.

Sincerely, Deb
Jan 26, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Our hearts are broken....
by: Jill and Harley

My family and I are going through this right now!!!!
I'm sorry but I have no words for you, just it hurts so bad.
Jan 22, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		So very sorry Deborah
by: Deb

So very sorry for your loss. Your "Sweet Bear" definitely let you know it was the right time. Hold on to the best of memories, Sweetie. I understand how very difficult it is.
Jan 22, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		I let my baby go today
by: Deborah

My Bear is a 9 year old Shih Tzu. He became ill a few months ago with daily vomiting. Usually just a bile looking foam. My vet ran tests and his white blood cell count was very high. We treated him for a gastro infection. He seemed to be doing better.

Then on Tuesday he refused food. Wednesday he ate a little bit of wet food. Thursday nothing again. Friday we went to the vet. He x-rayed and saw something on his liver.

An ultrasound confirmed. His liver was 99% consumed by tumor and it had affected his lymph nodes.

I decided to take him home that night and took him for his
favorite thing. A car ride. When we got home, he peed on the carpet, something he never does. I knew. It was too much. Called my vet this morning. And I held my baby as he crossed over the rainbow bridge. I am devastated and heart broken but I loved him and did what was best for him.

Good night my sweet Bear.
Jul 17, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Lil
by: Deb

Such good points, Sweetie. So happy to know that wonderful people like you are in the world to give precious furry ones a safe and happy home. ☺️
Jul 17, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		How to move forward
by: Lilian

Your stories are so sad and reflect my own experiences. I take in older pets on a very limited basis that were in need of homes. Some were badly neglected and developed various diseases. It was very hard to see them go after they had finally found love and joy.

Over the years I learned that I will never again give rawhide chewies to my dogs regardless if they are made in the US. I take the greatest care of my little Dachs/Yorkie mix since she was 7 weeks old and despite all of it she developed a suppressed immune system. She is still with me at 11 1/2 years old. Rounds of treatment and zero rawhides made her come around again to normal. That was several years ago. My husband who knows very little of animal health suggested the rawhide possibly being an issue.

Check out how the grass is treated in your local dog park and the pesticides being used in all the areas where the dogs are taken. Genetics also play a large part, especially in purebreds.

So sad for all of our losses. I honor the last one lost by taking in another senior in need. I don't seek them out - they just seem to cross my path at the right time as if meant to be.
Aug 31, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry Elaine
by: Deb

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Harry sounds like he was such an incredible furry family member. I'm sure you've read some other stories shared here. Unfortunately you are not alone, Sweetie. I say that not to make light of it at all. I just want you to know you are not alone. There are many of us who care very much. I am one of them. We can relate to your love & loss of such a wonderful gentle giant.

Please take your time through the process, but carry only the best of memories. I just know that's what Harry would want. Give those two other furry sweethearts some extra pets from a new friend.

Take Care,

Deb
Aug 31, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Harry
by: Elaine Rutland-Smith

We lost our 'baby bear' to liver cancer on 28th Aug 15. He was a Mastiff/Rottweiler X and a very gentle giant.

He was his usual self until last Sunday when he seemed a little more tired and resting more than usual (he was an ambler and only 7 years 4 months) and didn't eat his usual food quota for the next 3 days either, and went out for a walk on Wednesday and had something to eat. He then went upstairs and didn't come down until Thursday for a toilet break and then went and lay down behind the sofa, never ate anything nor moved, we spoon fed him and he took it. He didn't even respond to doorbells ringing on the television and whined at night - Hubby went down and lay beside him with the duvet over him and he settled.

Friday (28th), he seemed weaker and and hadn't moved. He whined, reassured him that we would get help and we contacted the vet - expecting to be given some medication for an infection and bring him home. When the scans were carried out (over 80% of his liver was diseased, gall bladder, spleen and lymph node too and he also had a lump the size of a potato pushing up his windpipe), no real signs apart from his collar seeming slightly loose over the past week but thought that he was toning up.

Shocked and completely devastated, He was given pain relief (due to abdominal pain which had started we guess Thursday) and was very sleepy.

We stayed and cuddled and kissed him and that he would soon be free from pain, and to cross the rainbow bridge and we will meet up again. He slipped away very quickly.

You don't expect to take a special friend to the vets and not bring him back, especially when he had no signs. Just heartbroken and devastated. We are also consoling our other crew members (1 joined before Harry and they were buddies, and 1 after) as they were very social and keep looking for him. We tell them he is a doggie angel in doggie heaven and can see us but we cannot see him. So hard as we see him everywhere.

Will be making up a memory album of photos etc and have photos of our special 'baby bear'. We miss him so much - he was a handsome chap (and he knew it).

RIP Harry - loved you to distraction, you left your paw prints on our heart and they will always be there. xxx
Apr 30, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		So glad to hear back from you, Pam. Been thinking of you.
by: Deb

Hi Pam,

So glad you responded, Sweetie. I know how tough these days can be. Daphney, Bella, the two cats, and any other sweet fury guys you have had were and are so lucky to have you. No guilt should be felt whatsoever. Your actions and care for them says it all.

Sweetie... I know you say you have been preparing for Bella's passing, but I want you to truly wrap your head around it sooner than later. Often just like a sweet old couple in their later years facing the inevitable whose bodies are failing die remarkably close the same could happen with our treasured fury ones. I hope and pray there is a little reprieve to catch your breath. Just know whenever that time comes Daphney will be waiting with open paws. They will be there for each other through eternity. And you will be okay over time. If only our treasured fury family members could have the same expected life span as humans - Although let's face it, that wouldn't be enough either ☺️

Hang in there, my friend.
Apr 30, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you Deb
by: Pam

Thank you very much for hearing me and replying with your kind words. It's helpful to find people who truly understand. Thank you.

I have another dachshund nearly 18; we have been preparing since October when we almost lost her. We have to do most things for her but she is still here enough to be loved all the time. I know she will be leaving us in the near future. She's hung on for over 6 months and we still can't believe we lost Daphney first. My Bella is so very fragile and we rescued her 6 years ago. She has so many signs of aging, her blood work is great except that her kidneys are in the start of failure so we have added herbal supplements to help with that. She only circles and we feed her and give her water. We got a stroller so we can get her out and about easy and not leave her home as we have not gone anywhere since October to leave her. She messes when she gets up and circles and leaves mommy a very huge mess. I often bathe her on my lunch hour when I come home. I have come home from work for the last 14 years for Daphney and now Bella.

We also have two rescue cats in the garage that we have no home or shelter for as we always rescued animals. Part of me is guilty for not sticking with my Daphney so all my time and resources stayed with her.
Apr 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your loss
by: Deb

Dear Pam,

I am so very sorry for your loss. There is absolutely no doubt that you were wonderful to her from the beginning to the very end. There is nothing you could have done different.

Unfortunately some diseases lay silent and show when they are in their worst form. I have faced scenarios where we are prepared for what's to come and those where everything happens so fast and before you know it your loved one is no longer here. Neither is easy. This is the one thing I truly feel.

Our precious furry loved ones would not want us to suffer a great deal from their loss. They were and are way too protective and loyal and unconditional loving us whether in our presence or not. We must honor them by holding the best of memories and taking care of ourselves and anyone else they loved and cared for.

Please take the time you need to heal and learn a new kind of normal with her memory very much in your heart but realize you are not alone. Do as you did here. Reach out and accept support. Take care.
Apr 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		I too lost my dog suddenly to liver cancer
by: Pam

I am too trying to find some comfort, some answers to what happened to my 14 year old dachshund. She was our first baby and I thought I did all I could to take great care of her feeding her an organic diet, high quality fish oil and other supplements along with fresh fruits and veggies.

It has been a month and the agony is too much to bear. I am so very sorry for your loss, and I understand. I can't believe that no matter what I did I lost her years before I thought I would - we had no signs, just a couple days of throwing up and the day she really turned bad, she appeared to be back to herself. She had a cancerous tumor that ruptured in her liver and it looked to be in part of the spleen and then her kidneys shut down and she starting bleeding from the bottom.

It was the most awful thing I had to decide, but with given only a few minutes after hearing the news, we had only a few minutes to make the decision of bringing her home on a Friday night at the close of business and have her bleed out both ways or to let her go at that moment.

We had not much time, but I have to keep thinking of how I took care of her all the years since she was 4 weeks old and that we were there for her in her darkest hour of need and we didn't find her gone alone... I have to find a way to concentrate on that.

I am deeply sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you.
Aug 12, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Baxter's Momma
by: Deb

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss, Hon. For that matter I'm very sorry to hear of both losses. That's a lot to take in a very short time.

I have loved and lost many to cancer both humans and precious furry loved ones. It's so tough. But please let me assure you there is nothing you could have done. Some of the cancers especially liver are so very silent and do not show its form until it has done incredible damage. The only thing you could be guilty of is loving your sweet Baxter so very much and that is no crime, my friend. Please know you did everything you could. The fact that it went quick (while I understand is difficult) was a blessing for your beloved furry guy. You gave him the gift of peace. Please know you are not alone.

Take Care,

Deb
Aug 11, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Lost My Baxter Friday
by: Baxter's Momma

Had to put my sweet boy Baxter to sleep Friday. He had been acting a little slower for a couple of weeks and I took him to the vet to get checked out and they said his heart & lungs sounded good and could find nothing wrong with him.

Friday morning after going outside and watering all the trees and bushes, he came in and ate his breakfast. Approximately an hour later he was laying on his side panting and wouldn't get up, just wag his curly little tail. I rushed him to the vet and they drew blood and did an abdominal ultrasound... they found 2 large tumors on his liver. Vet set him up at university vet hospital, put an IV in for fluids and we took off for there.

When I got him to hospital they did chest x-ray and the cancer had spread and there was nothing they could do for him.

It was very hard to say good-bye but I did not want him to suffer. He was 9 years old. We lost our other Boston Terrier about 1 1/2 years ago to a brain tumor - she was only 7. Makes me feel like I didn't do something right to lose 2 in less than 2 years.
May 03, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thankful you feel some comfort, Karen
by: Deb

I'm so glad you were able to read through and see the many stories. Your story is actually a common one unfortunately. The problem with these types of illnesses is the signs don't come until it is very advanced. It has nothing to do with our care for our furry loved ones. I believe you, myself, and most others are and were very good, caring, loving, and responsible pet owners. Sometimes things just happen out of our control. I'm grateful you have had people around you, and that you can find comfort through scriptures. You take care of yourself.

Sincerely,
Deb
May 03, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks
by: Karen

Thanks Deb, this web site did help. I was in torment wondering why I didn't see the signs earlier. I took my dogs to the vet twice a year for regular checkups, so I thought that they would be OK. I could see from other comments here that they too were surprised by what happened to the loving pets. I have had family and friends call me and take me out to cheer me up. It has helped some. I also found the following scripture in the bible.

Romans 8:19 says that the lesser creatures await Christ’s return to redeem the sons of God so they, too, will be released from physical death to eternal life.

This has given me hope that someday I will see my little one again. I also found several other scriptures to confirm this.

Thanks again for this wonderful web site!
May 03, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry Karen
by: Deb

I'm so so sorry, Karen. It's so difficult. Whether we have time to adjust or it comes suddenly it's a tough blow. It will take time, Sweetie. But you will be okay. Please surround yourself with a good support system. In time the most precious of memories will be comforting and keep your Dear Pom with you in heart always. I wish I could help the process be easier for you, as well as others who are hurting so badly going through the grieving process. Know you are not alone.

Sincerely,
Deb
May 03, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Me Too
by: Karen

My little Pom passed away on Sunday. I took him to the vet and his liver results came back as really high, so they gave me some pills to give to him. The next few days he wasn't eating much, and he became lethargic. I took him back to the vet to get an x-ray. The doctor came into the waiting room and told me it wasn't good news. She said he had liver cancer.

As we were discussion the options, my little boy went into cardiac arrest. She asked if I wanted for her to give him CPR, but I said no, let him go. The cancer was about the size of a large apple and the doctor said that his liver was probably already damaged. I didn't want to bring him back only to have to put him to asleep.

I feel I have a knife stuck in my heart and I'm can't stop crying. He was such a good boy. I know how you feel. It is such a hard thing to go through.
Mar 11, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		I'm so sorry Cindy
by: Deb

I'm so very sorry to hear of both your losses, Sweetie! I understand too well how having no reprieve of time to adjust from one love loss to another can take its toll.

Please know you are not alone. My hope is that in time the sweetest and most touching of memories carry you through. Surround yourself with people who care for you and will support you fully.

Take Care, Deb
Mar 11, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Broken hearted
by: Anonymous

I lost my 8 year old Bichon Tucker 2 days ago to liver cancer. We tried 2 rounds of chemotherapy, prednisone, and antibiotics. The cancer went to his eye and was so advanced the risk was too high to operate. It started with bloody diarrhea, vomiting and lethargy. He was such a trooper, his eye was ulcerated, discolored and bleeding, his stomach was distended, and he still went for walks and ate what he could.

On January 25th (My sister's birthday who had died just two weeks before of cancer) he was diagnosed and we had to put him to sleep on March 9th because he was in so much pain. It has been devastating to me and my heart is broken. I miss him so much. He was my world.

Cindy
Mar 06, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your loss
by: Deb

I'm so sorry to hear about your beloved and so very missed sweet furry one. I truly don't feel you missed anything. Just as in humans Hon, there are growths and cancers that give us no signs at all. Please don't do that to yourself. I'm sure your beloved one would not want you to carry such a burden. This is going to take you quite some time to grasp. It's easier on our fury loved ones when it's not drawn out, but on us it's so very difficult. The time just isn't enough. I have complete faith in time you will be OK.

Your heart will always lovingly carry that sweet beloved dog of yours. Hold onto the most beautiful and precious of memories. Surround yourself with those who will be very supportive and caring with you.

Sincerely,
Deb
Mar 06, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		How to get over guilt.... :(
by: Pain and Sorrow

We lost our pomeranian last week. She was 2 months shy of 14 years. Vet says her liver and spleen were full of tumors. Says it probably started a few weeks prior to putting her to sleep. Somehow I don't believe it is that fast. If I can believe it to be that fast, then I would feel better. But I keep thinking it couldn't have been that fast, and I should have seen the symptoms earlier. I could have gotten her help sooner. I feel so terrible. She never had any major illness and so I feel I took her good health for granted. Should have seen the vet more often. I just assumed she's one of those that would live close to 20 yrs. I miss her dearly, and I hope she can forgive me.
Jan 13, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		You are not selfish, Hon
by: Deb

There's a difference between being selfish and having the hardest time letting go.

It is so difficult to say goodbye, but I think it's time, Sweetie. I have been through this a few times. If your sweet furry guy didn't have such a bleak diagnosis, aiding appetite with meds can be so helpful to regain strength and more quality of life, but . . . your sweet forever love is telling you it's time. I know how difficult it is, Sweetie. My heart is feeling for you. Know you are not alone.

Sincerely,

Deb
Jan 09, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Going through it now...
by: Anonymous

I am currently going through the same issue with my 10 yr old Yellow Lab. She had a biopsy done on Monday and the doc said it was liver cancer.

She's home right now and on pain meds and was given something to stimulate her appetite, which has not been very good at all. Our vet actually came to the house to administer some meds. When she arrived, Ally jumped up and greeted her at the door. The doc was so surprised.

In talking with the vet, she said if she did eat a bit and was still drinking then she may be ok for a bit. The appetite stuff actually did something because she did eat some chicken tonight. I was shocked. But she is very bloated and really can't move all that great.

I'm wondering if I'm being selfish by not putting putting her down, but the fact that she ate, I just don't know. What I do know is that I will be there with her when the time comes.

Prayers to all our best friends out there who give such unconditional love in their short time with us.
Dec 22, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		To Deb
by: Anonymous

Once again, Deb, your words are of great comfort to me. I say once again because when my love Jack was first diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma you replied to my grieving with kindness, understanding and support. Thank you so much!

I love my other two wonderful friends and companions and eventually they will make me realize that they are at my side to provide what I need to accept Jack's death and that the sun will again shine, the flowers will bloom and life will be kind to all.

To all of you, please have a wonderful Christmas.
Dec 21, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry to hear about Wawa
by: Deb

Dear Josie,

So sorry to hear about your sweet Wawa. Sounds like you had a precious sweet relationship with each other. It's so hard to let them go, but so very unselfish of us. I feel badly that everything came on so quickly for you, but at the same time I am grateful there wasn't a great deal of suffering. I hope each day becomes a little bit easier and that you know you are not alone. There are many people out there who care deeply, just because. I'm proud to say I'm one of them. Take care.

Love,

Deb
Dec 21, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thinking of you
by: Deb

So sorry you are going through this guys.

As for your Pom I understand exactly. Our Payton was on the same treatment for a while. Once we knew his quality of life was not there we made the painful decision to put him to sleep. As hard as it is I think you guys were hand picked for this precious one. What's the chance you would adopt and then the sweetie would have to face this. I bet he/she is so very grateful that even for a short time he has you. Hang in there and know you aren't alone. Payton loved chicken soup at the end. I'd give it to him right out of our very own soup bowls.

As for Jack . . . I'm so very sorry for your loss. I know it's not easy at all, Hon. I'm worried about you. Maybe a grieving group could be a good idea. It is normal to grieve and each person comes to terms in their own time. I just think you can use a little extra support. Please know you aren't alone. Also, please think of this - Your other sweet furry guys may be sad not only because of the loss of Jack but because you have not allowed your spirit to still touch them in the way it once has. It's okay to go on loving them. You will always always love Jack as well, Hon. Take Care.

Love, Deb
Dec 21, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		I share your pain...
by: Josie

Hopefully time healed most of your pain by now, while my husband and I are grieving the totally unexpected loss of my boy Wawa. He was the sweetest, funniest and most beautiful and most huggable rat terrier/ chihuahua boy to ever bark on our earth. Wawa followed me everywhere I needed to be, from the kitchen to the garden to the garage and the wood shop, from one room to another. Wawa slept next to me every night and insisted on me scratching him all over until asleep.

It was no different the last night until we had to send my super good boy off to dog heaven the next morning. Just a little lethargy for a few days before and then some blood in his stool on his last evening here, were the only warnings I had. I loved him so much and still can't believe he is gone.

My sweet SunnyBoy, your Papa and I, Grandma and Grandpa, your sweet little sister Chi Chi and Nina, we will always love you and never forget you!!

Your Mama
Dec 05, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Still grieving
by: Anonymous

I lost the love of my life, my best friend and companion, my happiness and comfort on July 14, 2012. His name was Jack, a beautiful, very large, happy, kind Airedale and not a day goes by that I don't cry over him. I have been told that eventually I will think of only the fun times he and I had and the closeness that existed between us, but I don't think this will happen any time soon, if ever.

Two days from now, December 6th, would have been his birthday and he would have turned 9. Why can't we be together on that day and forever? The unfairness of it all is incomprehensible! I have two other wonderful dogs who give me as much as Jack did, but his absence is deeply felt. Our lives have completely changed and sadness presents itself often.

To all of you who have lost a pet, my heart goes out to you.
Dec 04, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Newly diagnosed
by: Anonymous

My husband & I are still in shock over the recent diagnosis of liver cancer in our Pom. He is 8 years old, but we just adopted him in October. We are in shock as he got so ill, so fast. He is on Prednisone & eating some. We are trying any food we can think of. My heart goes out to everyone who has/is going through this. I've dealt with many medical problems with my pets, but never this. I am shocked and heartbroken as I know what lies ahead.
Dec 03, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your losses and recent diagnosis
by: Deb

Dear Fellow "Blessed Beyond Words" Loved Owners Of Cherished Furry Guys,

I ran across this site about three years ago, I believe, when our dear golden retriever, Payton at the time was diagnosed with liver cancer. He has since then passed as I have shared previously here. I often would find myself coming back to view your stories with hopes of maybe being a little helpful or at least comforting. I feel badly I haven't been able to check on here for some time. I am so sorry to hear of more loss and also to hear of sweet little and big guys still hanging on with this tough disease.

Please know you are not alone. Many of us have gone through this and while it is ever so difficult you must hold close what your sweet furry guy was and is before this. A sweet furry bundle of love no matter how big or small.

Unfortunately the life expectancy of our dogs no mater how healthy just are never long enough. All the more reason to treasure every minute we can and let them live on once they have passed.

I have lost many dogs throughout my life. As an honor to them I don't last very long before I embrace another. It is never a replacement. It's an addition to those who live in my heart forever. I hope you are able to do the same and if not please keep your chin up, maybe adopt a neighbor's or friend's furry guy as an occasional friend, and/or stay connected with the world we are all so blessed to be a part of.

Love,

Deb
Dec 03, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Kelly
by: Doug

I just lost my Terrier mix to liver cancer this past Saturday. I am just recovering from that today.

She was in the Vet hospital for a week. After antibiotic treatment of a few days, she started to get better. Then on Friday night, her blood panel came back with Liver enzymes went through the roof. That was when I realized and was told it was liver cancer. She passed in my arms, as not to go alone this past Saturday.

Due to the unusual progress and the difficulty in diagnosis, I had a necropsy done. It was Liver Cancer. The liver was sent out for a complete go over to help Vets learn about the cancer of the liver in canines.

Kelly passed with 2 months shy of 18 years old. She had a good long life.
Nov 30, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you for this site
by: Anonymous

I have just brought my own Best Friend home, after 2 days hospitalization, with a Dx of liver cancer. Yes, it hit way too fast.

I am grateful for these posts that tell me we are not alone with this insidious disease. I am just very afraid that he will suffer. Even a moment of such is too much.
Oct 13, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		Newly diagnosed
by: ozzy'smom

So sorry to hear about the losses of your sweet friends.

My 10 yr old Collie/shepherd mix was healthy at his yearly visit in May but had lost 2 pounds from the year before. The vet congratulated me but in the back of my mind I knew he was still his snack loving self.

Over the next 3 months he lost more weight, became quite finicky, and began having loose stools. He was treated with fiber and antibiotics because all his lab work and X-rays were normal. An ultrasound yesterday showed multiple liver masses. We are devastated. So far he is pretty much himself - going on walks and guarding raw hides from the cat. I got a recipe online for high calorie food and he will eat it. I know it's denial but I hope I can get some weight back on him and keep him going for as much time as possible. The vet said 1 month but he has had it for probably 6 months already.
Sep 12, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		It hurts
by: Anonymous

I lost my 7 year old Boston Terrier to liver cancer on August 25th. Went on vacation and within those five days his health deteriorated tremendously. I'm so thankful that he was in good hands while I was away and even for his final care.

Tripp was my first dog who I'd only had for 2.5 years. During that time my entire life revolved around his needs. I find comfort in the fact that I gave him everything I thought he needed to be happy. Miss him! Will always love him!
Aug 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Izzy's mom
by: Anonymous

My heart goes out to you! I lost one of my wonderful boys (I had three) June 14, 2012 and there is not a day that goes by that I don't cry over my loss and I sit and think why we all must go through such painful times and what happens from this day on. Where is my boy? Why did he have to leave and take my heart with him? Will I ever see him again? I get comfort thinking that he knew how much I loved him and he knew that no matter what I would never, ever forget the happiness and love he brought into my life.

He had liver cancer and chemotherapy did not help, but he never suffered; he simply and quietly went to sleep. My other two boys have not taken his place, but they do help relieve my pain somehow. I love them both, just like I loved Jack, my now angel in heaven, and they miss him as much as I do. Somehow life must go on.

Please do take care of yourself!

Sincerely.
Aug 16, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Mourning my best friend
by: Izzy's mom

I lost my best friend today. Izzy, my canine companion of ten years, became ill very quickly. On Sunday she was a little lethargic on our regular walk at the dog park. When we got home she didn't want the homemade doggie ice cream my niece had stocked for her in the freezer. I was worried, but not panicked. She was a really healthy 10 year old Australian Shepherd mix I had gotten from a Humane Society when she was 12 weeks old. Her vet said she had the health of a 6 year old.

But then she didn't want to eat and she puked twice on Monday. Her vet - a home visiting vet - came by Tuesday morning and started her on pain meds and antibiotics and took blood and urine to run tests. She thought it might be leptospirosis. Izzy and I, and my 5 month old, hike our local dog park about 3 times a week, so it made sense that maybe she had picked that up in the pond she plays...played in.

We had her on a saline drip all day yesterday and she seemed better. But I woke up this morning to her howls of pain. My vet got her about an hour after we woke and injected twice the dosage of pain meds into my baby. It didn't cut it. She kept moaning and looking into my eyes. I've always been able to make anything better for her. She didn't understand why I wasn't making the pain stop. That's when I asked her vet to inject her with something that would take her pain away...make her sleep forever.

Izzy dragged herself to her favorite chair while her vet went to her car to grab her euthanasia kit. Her back legs weren't functioning, but I knew what she wanted so I helped lift her. I held her face, her paw and once the injection hit she stopped howling in pain. For a second she just stared at me. And then she was gone. My best friend. Gone.

I'm not sure that there was anything I could have done to avoid this, all I know is that a creature that I love and who loved me is no longer here. She was so healthy and active. All her shots were up to date. I just don't know why she got so ill so quickly, but I miss her so much and grieve for every single one of you who loses a friend like I did today.

Just make sure to make their days count while you have them.

Heartbroken in Colorado
Jul 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dusty is gone
by: Marilyn

I just lost my sweet Dusty to liver cancer. He had been fine until he quit eating. Lab tests showed elevated liver enzymes - IV fluids, B12 and antibiotics didn't help; he went downhill so fast. He was almost 14 - I knew he wouldn't live forever, but I just wasn't prepared.
Jul 21, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Chloe
by: kerri

I just received news that my dog has a number of these symptoms. I am so saddened and my heart is breaking. I just know it is only a matter of time. I can't bear the loss. Sorry for your loss. Thank you for posting this information. God bless.
Jun 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		How nice of you . . .
by: Deb

Thank you for the kind words. I get it. I sure hope life is treating you well and that many of your days are filled with joy.

Sincerely,

Deb
Jun 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you Deb
by: Anonymous

Once again you have been very supportive and your kind words have made an impact. I say once again because when my boy Jack first was diagnosed (February, 2012) and I wrote my feelings you responded with lovely words of comfort. Thank you so much! Sincerely.
Jun 22, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The brightest star has been born in heaven!
by: Anonymous

I am devastated and at a standstill! My sweet, wonderful Airedale Jack passed away June 14, 2012. He had liver hemangiosarcoma, received intravenous and oral chemotherapy and everything was done to keep him happy, comfortable and to extend the best quality of life, which we succeeded.

He was doing well, his laboratory results were good, he was eating, playing with his other two "brothers" (Finnigan, a Kerry Blue Terrier, and Arnie, a German Wirehair Pointer).

On the above fateful day, while we had all gone for a car ride, he decided to leave us and begin shinning upon us from above! I am trying my best to do as much for my other two pups, which I have always done, however, it is incredibly difficult to even get out of bed. Everything I touch, everything I see, everywhere I go reminds me of my baby Jack (he was 8.5 years old when he passed away).

I suppose that one day somehow, somewhat, the pain will diminish and all that will be left will be the wonderful, unforgettable times Jack and I spent together, comforting each other, loving each other, protecting each other. For now my heart is broken!
Feb 20, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Caylie's loved one
by: Deb

Hi Sweetie,

I'm so sorry it has been so tough on you to adjust to Caylie no longer being physically present with you. Our sweet furry boy before Payton was Mr. T. He was only seven when we lost him. It was due to a rare cancer around his heart.

While every loss is rough I can empathize with you how it takes an even bigger toll on you when they are so young. It didn't take long after his diagnosis until we had to make that tough decision to let him go. I questioned my intuition and proper care for him as well. It ate at me for quite some time. But with each sad heart wrenching thought came this warm feeling that kept telling me if anything I gave him what would be considered many years of quality loving care all wrapped up into just mere months. The house felt the same way you describe.

I pained over the decision to take the plunge with another wonderful furry guy. It didn't take long to make the choice to open our hearts to Payton. He filled our hearts and life with such joy and warmth from day one. He never replaced Mr. T in my heart or anyone else's. If anything I realized just how huge our hearts truly are. They have more room than people realize, Hon. When we sady lost Payton, it was tough and so sad once again but as we made the decision months later to embrace our present new furry friend of the family (Murphie) I realize through my conflicted feelings that if anything it is an honor to those who we have loved so dearly as they loved us.

Each furry treasure I have had has reinforced the power of that wonderful bond and unconditional love they so wonderfully show us and teach us. I think they teach us so well and make us better human beings. There are moments that happen very unexpected where I'm interacting with Murphie and I feel this surge of warmth that continually reminds me of those others I have and will always love dearly. Get another wonderful furry gift soon please. Caylie would love it. I wish you well.

Sincerely,
Deb
Feb 19, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Getting another dog
by: Anonymous

To Caylie's owner,

It's been a long while since I logged on. I lost my Kate to liver cancer one year ago today and it still hurts like heck. A fellow dog walker friend who treats her dogs really well and has been through this several times before gave me some good info. I asked how long it would take to not hurt so much and she said that she didn't think she'd ever get over the one who died if she didn't get the next one. It's not about replacing the one you lost. It is about continuing to love the dog companion in your life.

If your life has room for a canine companion, don't hesitate. It doesn't diminish the one who is gone. I have chosen not to get another dog yet, but I borrow a friend's golden retriever for hikes and walks, and my enjoyment of his pure dog happiness doesn't cross paths with how much I miss Kate. Good luck.

Lynda
Feb 19, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Missing my Jack Russell
by: Anonymous

I wrote last month when our Caylie of only 7 years died.

I have been doing a little better but everything I do in this house reminds me of her, especially when I am eating, she was always there looking for a bite from me, or when I would go anywhere she was right on my heels. I miss her so much.

I have been searching online for another puppy, but nothing yet. I just don't know what to do. I feel like I just can't handle another dog leaving us if it gets sick. Was it my fault for not noticing anything wrong sooner that maybe I could have saved her?

I've been looking at a different type of dog, a Morkie, one that doesn't shed, because Caylie sure was a shedder but I didn't mind, but now when I still find hair I know its hers and it makes me feel good. Do any of you think it's a good thing for me to get another dog right now? Or should I wait longer? I miss her so much and I don't know what to do.
Feb 05, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		You are going to be ok
by: Anonymous

I understand your feelings completely. Please though as you treasure this blessed time you have with Jack, start to wrap yourself up with his wonderdul spirit that will forever be with you.

I have loved and lost several people in my life, as well as several beloved furry treasures. It's never easy but I have taught myself to absolutely allow the sadness but then to remember the best way you can honor those who truly loved you is to go on. I have slowly with a heavy heart moved forward stronger, better, more loving because of what I was given by that beautiful wonderful treasure that gave me unconditional love. I realize that no one can take away all those wonderful moments that we were given. Whether helped through sadness or having shared a wondedul joy we walked through it together. When I had to let go of my most recent treasure "Payton" it was so tough but through my tears and aching heart I'd never been prouder to have known him, to have chosen him, to have received his unconditional love.

Today several months later I have a new little treasure. His name is Murphie. He will never replace Payton, but I love and embrace his love in honor of him. It sounds to me if you took even a portion of what you feel for Jack once you do have to say goodbye and put it in addition towards your two other previous furry gifts, they will be ever so blessed, Hon. What you will get in return is love ten fold. Until then keep taking in those moments. Everyone of them is a gift indeed.

Sincerely,

Deb
Feb 05, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you Deb
by: Anonymous

My dearest boy Jack is still with us and I need to believe that miracles do happen. I realize that it has only been a few days since he was diagnosed with liver cancer and that the day will come when he says good bye, but for now and forever I thank the Lord for every day that he gives me to be with him. I continue to feel that I will not survive without him and any support anyone is willing to give me makes the days a bit easier.

Again Deb, thank you so much for your kindness and understanding.
Jan 27, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Golden Retriever
by: Anonymous

We also lost our beloved Golden Retriever to Liver and Spleen cancer on January 21, 2012. We too did not know he even had the cancer until a sonogram and x-ray were taken 12 days before he died.

He was a part of our family and there is a hole in our heart after he passed. I am still amazed how fast he went. He had stopped eating and was also drinking and going to the bathroom a lot. When I took him to the vet when he stopped eating, the vet just thought it was gastrointestinal problems.

We are still in shock.

My heart goes out to all who are in this same situation.
Jan 24, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Holly Rae - Boxer
by: Lisa

I'm very sorry for the loss of your boxer.

I too lost my beloved boxer Rosie on January 10, of 2012. She was diagnosed with cancer of the spleen the week of Thanksgiving, and it had spread to her liver. The word needs to go out to have your older boxers or older dogs ultrasounded at least 3 times a year. I wish I had known, Rosie might still be here today. My vet never mentioned to me about doing an ultrasound to try and catch cancer early. Just try and spread the word. Of couse cancer can spread, really quick, it is still possible to catch and give them more time.
Jan 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Having to make that hard decision
by: Kiwipetowner

My Jack Russell is around 9-11 years old (we're her second family) and we've been told she has liver cancer and will have to be put to sleep soon. She is so swollen, but her ribs and spine are sticking out and legs are thin as anything. She can't get onto the furniture anymore, has jaundice and is drinking lots of water. She still runs to the door barking if someone knocks but we know her time has come and are trying as hard as we can to face going to the vet this week.

I just wanted to say Thank You to all of you for sharing your heartwrenching stories here. It does help to know that others have been through it and understand.
Jan 20, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dear Friend
by: MARY

I am so sorry for your loss. I cried when I read your story.

I have 3 poms and they are my world! Your baby is beautiful and I am sure he still feels your love for him and find comfort in knowing you gave him a very good life full of love and happiness.

Mary
Jan 07, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Caylie
by: Joanne

Marge,

It will take time for the hurt to go away. I cried every day for at least two weeks after my little guy Champ was put to sleep because of liver cancer. At night right before bed was always the hardest time for me and coming home from work. Then I would cry whenever his name would be mentioned or I saw a picture of him and this went on for about two months.

Now though, four months later, I am able to look at pictures of him and talk about him. Like you, others have told me to get another dog, but I just can't. I can't imagine going through that pain again and I am going to have to because I have another dog who is 13 years old and I dread when it is her time to go.

Besides having a necklace to remember Champ, the poem "Rainbow Bridge" has also helped (if you google "Rainbow Bridge" it will come up). It is very comforting. I know it is really hard, but try to take comfort in knowing that Caylie isn't suffering anymore and that while she was with you, she lived a great life and was loved. Just hang in there and as the saying goes, time heals all wounds, but all wounds leave a scar.
Jan 07, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you Joanne & Gina
by: Marge

Joanne & Gina

Thank you so much for your kind words.

I will definitely be looking for a necklace or a pin as you suggested, that's something that may help me.

It has now been 3 days and I cry a lot, miss her more and more. I can't move her bed from my room or her toys, it's just comforting when I go to bed, I see her bed and still say goodnight to her. I don't like to be home much because it's easier when I am away, the house is just to empty without her.

My friends tell me to get another dog but I just can't, she cannot be replaced.

When does the hurting stop? She was just the one thing I always looked forward to coming home to see and be with. I am so lost without her. It does make me feel a bit better when I get on this site and read what you all have to say.

Thanks again so much.
Jan 06, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		keeping Caylie with you
by: Gina

So sorry to hear about Caylie. My girl HarLee passed Nov. 9th, 2011 & I too, felt like I was dying inside. Absolutely one of the worst experiences I've been through.

However, I did as you, decide a piece of jewelry, would keep my dog close.... A friend of mine is an artist & he created a pin just for me when I shared how I wanted to keep my girl close to me every day. It's got a small paw on it & I cherish it, because it keeps my baby girl close to my heart whenever I wear it.

Time will not bring Caylie back, but please know that the time you had together was a most-beautiful gift. That's what has helped me through, remembering all the unconditional love I was lucky enough to be the recipient of. I know I will be reunited with my beautiful HarLee girl someday, as you will be with Caylie. Until then, our hearts have been touched forever with the pawprints of our beloved digs upon them. God bless.
Jan 05, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Caylie
by: Joanne

Marge,

I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of Caylie. I (and everyone on here) know how hard it is. I lost my little buddy in September and it was the hardest thing I've gone through. I know it is hard now and you're probably wondering if you made the right decision, but try to take comfort in that your little girl isn't suffering anymore.

I don't know much about other canine cancers, but liver cancer seems to take our little babies rather quickly, which makes it harder on us. Just think of all the good memories of Caylie and take comfort in that you gave her a good life. I think of my little buddy every day. I bought a necklace online that is a heart with a paw print and says "Always in My Heart" and his name is engraved on the back. I wear it every day and it does help a little.

Hang in there and know that you have support here.
Jan 05, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Our baby Caylie
by: Marge

We lost our 7 year Jack Russell last night.

Just Monday we took her to the vet because she had not eaten and drinking A LOT. After 3 hours there and many tests they tell me she had an enlarged liver, like 50 percent bigger than normal.

The next day they did an ultrasound, then the liver cancer news was given. The vet saw a mass in liver and on her spleen. We took her home with 4 different meds, that was Tuesday.

On Wed, she got sick A LOT then seemed fine, then drank more water and got sick again, seemed really weak too. So back to the vet we went and by the time we got there she was wagging her tail again and seemed okay. Then she got a drink and sick 3 more times.

The vet said she could go any minute, with all the sympoms she was showing. He gave us the option to take her home and wait or to put her down. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do. I just didn't want her to suffer so I am still asking myself if we did the right thing, could I have had more time with her? Does she know how much we loved and will always love her?

It's just so hard to walk around the house and not have her following me like she always did. I feel like I am dying inside, but it did help to read all your stories to know that I am not alone. It's just not fair, they only love us and this happens to them.
Nov 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Holly Rae
by: Deb

So sorry to hear about Harley, Sweetie. It is so tough to go through such a terrible loss. So many stories are alike here. The problem is unless your sweet furry guy has had blood work which shows a sign of liver problems this goes undetected until it is in very late stages.

I have been blessed with several wonderful dogs in my life. It is never easy and has little to do with time, Hon. It's about quality. Just from your few words it's easy to see you showed Harley great compassion and love. The hardest but kindest thing we can do as a last act is to let them go when our heart and head tells us to. He's no longer in discomfort.

When I think of how many times I've been comforted by my sweet "man's best friends", it confirms over and over again that they deserve the same.

Please take care of yourself and hopefully the pain of your loss will ease with each passing day.

Sincerely,

Deb
Nov 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Liver cancer - so fast growing
by: Holly Rae

Just put our 11 year old Boxer, Harley, to sleep last week after taking him to the vet the week before due to weight loss, lethargy, drinking a lot, not eating, etc.

We thought he was just getting older but it turned out he had a fever and the hard area on his side was his liver pressing outward and the vet said it was enlarged 3-4 times its normal size. He gave him 2 - 6 weeks to live. Each day the big lump that was his cancerous liver stuck out of his side more and more and we were lifting him up and down off the bed, couch, etc.

Finally we decided not to wait til his liver failed (which the vet explained would be when he started vomiting) and took him in for his last appointment.

It was so sad, but the cancer growing in his liver was vicious and I didn't want him to suffer until the bitter end. I don't know if it was a blessing or a curse that we had such a short time with him from the time of diagnosis to putting him to sleep. It all sucks really bad but I keep telling myself 11 years was old for a Boxer.

My sympathies for all out there suffering the loss of their beloved faithful companions.
Nov 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your losses
by: Deb

I am so sorry to hear of three more precious furry loved ones having come down with this sad disease and passing away. I understand what you are all going through. No matter what the situation was you have to know the power of a dog's love and devotion allows him to understand we are trying to do our very best.

I commend each of you for sharing your stories. It is just a small example of the love you showed Harlee, Lucky, and your wire fox terrier. I would have handled the situations exactly the same way and so would many people.

Please know that you are not alone and there are those out there much like myself who truly care.

Wishing you peaceful thoughts with bright layers as you go through the process of getting used to your sweet guys not being here with you anymore. I truly believe they are looking over you with the undying love we are so blessed to have been given.

Take Care,

Deb
Nov 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lucky
by: robin

Yesterday my 3 yr old yellow lab was put to sleep during surgery to remove his spleen. The doctor called me at work and broke the news that while they were operating they discovered he had cancer of the spleen and it had already spread to his liver. Like many of you, this came on so suddenly, one minute he a was a healthy happy dog, the next he was vomiting uncontollably and being rushed to the vet.

The vet advised me that the best thing I could do was to put him down, they asked me if I wanted to go there and they would wake him up so I could say goodbye first. I did not want them to wake him up just to be put down again, and so they put him down while he was asleep.

I feel guilty and I am just unconsolable right now, but I feel like I did do the best thing for him. I really wish I could have brought myself to say goodbye.
Nov 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My HarLee girl
by: Gina

My beautiful German Shepherd / Lab mix, HarLee, died in my arms last night at 11:30pm.

I am still shocked how quickly this all happened. Started vomitting & excessive thirst & peeing about 2 weeks ago. Loss of appetite & inability to move well within last 3 days. Was getting ready to bring to emergency vet, when I laid on floor with her to gently rub her nose, in effort to comfort her, as her breathing was very labored. She turned to face me, laid her head in my arms & suddenly her breathing ceased as she looked up at me. It took me a few moments to realize she was gone. Seeing her so uncomfortable broke my heart. But I feel blessed that my beautiful girl of almost 12 years was in my arms, while hearing me tell her how much I loved her, as she passed from this life to the next. I will never be the same. My younger dog, Ginger is wondering where her big sister went.

Thank you for this site. Sharing will help me heal.
Nov 05, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		liver cancer
by: Anonymous

Just lost my 9 year old wire fox terrier to this awful disease. It had spread to his spleen also. It is so fast and aggressive. Thought I would have had him longer. To those who cannot afford surgery or help on these problems try your local vet schools. Sometimes they will do things for a reduced price.
Oct 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank You
by: Topsy

Thank you Joanne and Deb for your support.

I do hope our babies are looking down at us with love and thanks for all we tried to do to take care of them. The memories are bitter sweet. For most like us our pets are angels on earth. They don't deserve to suffer.

All the best to everyone on this board.
Oct 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Topsy
by: Joanne

Hi Topsy, I wrote on this board on September 8th, which was a day after I lost my little guy. I am so sorry for your loss and all of us on this board understand what you are going through. It is beyond difficult, but try to find comfort in knowing that your little baby isn't in pain or suffering anymore. I do the same thing you are doing ... wondering if we made the right decision and if he would've recovered. But then I remember that it was cancer and since it was such a big mass, there wasn't any chance of recovery. I hope you can find comfort in the the memories you have of your doggie and know that you did the right thing. You have a lot of support here.
Oct 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your loss
by: Deb

So sorry for your loss. I really do strongly feel you did indeed give "your girl" the final and very unselfish gift. They give us so much in their short lives. It is so difficult to let go. Please know you are not alone. There are many people who can relate and truly care. Be assured she's looking down upon you with love and gratitude.

Take Care,
Deb
Oct 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lost my little girl to liver cancer
by: Topsy

I, too, was forced to make the agonizing decision of preventing my girl from the suffering I've read what comes along with liver cancer.

As she was being treated for pancreatitis for a week and still throwing up, not eating, and feeling very tired, I then took an ultrasound to find that she had suspicious masses on her liver.

Like the other stories here, she had shown intermittent signs of recovery but the team of vets assured me that she most likely has cancer and, if I wasn't going to proceed with treatment, that I should strongly consider not letting her suffer.

I did know in my heart that she was sick and her recovering on her own was denial. As she was an 11 year old diabetic, I felt that she had enough poking and pinches in her life and putting her through any biopsy or what would have been a gruesome failed attempt to remove cancer.

I had to make the painful decision to alleviate her from any more suffering while she still had some dignity. I still am haunted by those little signs of recovery and I am haunted by wondering if I stuck it out, would she have recovered.

After reading everyone else's similar symptoms, it assures me that I did show my dog the last act of love. I pray that in heaven she now knows that all the poking and painful vet visits and hospital stays were me doing everything I could to keep her with me.
Oct 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Kaleigh's people
by: Beth

Our girl Sophie had 4 good months after her diagnosis. It was sometimes easy to forget that she was so sick. It was only in the last weeks that we resorted to prednisone (which did help her for a few weeks). It was a great four months and we look back now and smile at all the nice slow walks we had with her. Still hard to know she is gone though. Just this morning I looked at her water bowl (which is still there for our other dogs) and could see her lapping up her copious amounts of water.

Best wishes and kindest thoughts to you during these days. You will be ok and your girl will know she is well-loved.
Sep 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Kayleigh
by: Deb

I commend you both for the approaches you are taking on behalf of Kayleigh. I have loved and lost several furry loved ones and it never gets easy. With that being said we continue to take the wonderful gift of opening our hearts to another time after time. If only their lives can last much longer.

In my experience I can't agree with you more. You have to know your pet and read everything well. If they tolerate medicine to help lengthen their life with quality it's a great choice, but it can also be the last thing they want and need.

I've been so blessed in my life with wonderful golden retrievers who have shown immense love and dedication. It has made me become very unselfish no matter how much it pains one to make rough choices.

I wish your little family the very best as long as you have with your cherished furry one. I'm hoping and praying you are fortunate as I was with Payton. They gave him two months and he in return blessed us with almost six. May you be blessed with the same.

Sincerely,

Deb
Sep 22, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To all who have lost Loved Pets
by: Anonymous

The thoughts and prayers of my wife and myself are with you all on this Board.

We heard on the 14th September that Kayleigh, our dear 8 year old Golden Lab has liver cancer. It was a real blow. She was prescribed an antibiotic and prednisone to help her. We gave her first dose on Thurs 15 Sept - it actually nearly killed her. I have never seen a dog so ill. Within a couple of hours of her first dose she was so distressed, restless, vomiting, could not sleep, would not eat, panting her heart out.

I phoned the emergency vet (it was now Saturday evening) and after discussing it with her, we decided to stop all her medication. Again within a few hours she was calm, sleeping and no longer panting. Now, a few days later, she is almost her old self. Eats well (as do all Lab's!), sleeps well, still plays and even chases a cat that comes into our garden! Goes for a short walk every day, but tires easily. She is a bit jaundiced.

We will just love and cherish her as long as we can before her quality of life is seen to be near the zero level. Who knows how long - the vet said a month or a little longer.

Keep strong all of you who have already suffered loss and all who have ill pets - keep strong for their sake. They pick up emotions and vibes SO easily.
Sep 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thinking of you
by: deb

Sending thoughts and prayers your way, Stephanie. With that being said it is important to be prepared, Sweetie. Those levels are very high. Take in the time together as much as you can. Wishing you the best...

Deb
Sep 19, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Liver Cancer in dogs
by: Stephanie

I am so sorry for the loss of your pet... I feel so bad for you.

I just had a cushings test for my schnauzer because her alkaline phosphatase levels are up to 1100 and they shouldn't be above 110. Her cushings test was normal so now we have to do a sonogram on her liver to see if its enlarged. If so they may have to biopsy it for cancer.

I am terrified of the results. She isn't showing any signs of being sick at all. I am beside myself right now not knowing what the diagnosis will be. I have had her (Abby) since she was 7 weeks old and she is now 13. I don't wanna lose her to something like this. She has been very healthy all her life up until this stuff. I surely hope there is no cancer in there...ughhh!
Jul 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry for your loss, Hon.
by: Deb

I'm so sorry to hear that yet another beloved furry sweetheart has been hit with liver cancer. It's so tough. I hope as you go through the healing process yourself and are getting used to your little guy not being with you that you find much peace in the lack of suffering spared.

As you explained it was a perfect day just before everything hit. That brings a smile to my heart. Truth is we have to remember even with very healthy four legged loved ones that their lives are very short as compared to ours. We take that on each time we embrace another loved one into our hearts. Take time to honor what you had and hold onto the quality life gave you with your little buddy. It will be okay. Your being looked over from that precious little one.

We recently embraced a new furry sweetie into our lives again. It doesn't take away the loss of Payton. It doesn't help fill that spot that will always belong to him. What he does though is helps me honor how well Payton taught us the true love you can be so blessed with when it's time for another journey between man's best friend and his lucky owner :-).

Prayers and thoughts with you, Sweetie.
Jul 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Just lost my baby
by: Must love dogs

It was comforting to read your message. I have felt so alone these past two weeks after my truly adorable Shih Tzu died from a liver tumour.

It was so sudden...the day before we had had a brilliant long walk, a romp in the grass, loads of fun. He ate all his food and spent half the night laying next to me on my bed on his back...so content. But at around 4.30am he woke me with a very strange grunt/cry and I looked in his eyes and knew this was serious. The only symptom he had displayed was a fatter tummy but I just thought he had put a bit of weight on.

I am so distraught and have cried evey day for nearly three weeks. I can't seem to get over the loss of such a beautiful pet. My sympathies and thoughts go out to everyone suffering in the same way.
Jun 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Joni
by: Deb

So very sorry to hear this. Payton was a golden retriever, but my daughter has a chocolate lab. That breed has also found its way in my heart as well :-).

I know this is such a difficult time, Hon. I can tell you this much. While it was so very difficult to say goodbye, I am very confident in my decision. Payton had for a few days been drinking and peeing excessively especially in the late evening hours. After three days of that his food intake was not the same. He loved his food. He began to smell a little different and go into sleeps that were quite heavy. It was all a sign he was deteriorating and it wouldn't be long. To avoid any more discomfort and some awful struggles for him physically as the body kept in that direction we chose to give him peace.

I wish humans had the chance to be put down the way we can respectably do with our four legged loved ones. You will know when you did it your precious one is no longer in discomfort or pain and has died with dignity and his/her loving owner right there. Everything will be ok. I'm so happy for you you have shared such a special love and bond with your sweetie there. One day in the future when you're ready . . . I wish you that again.
Jun 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I feel for you
by: Joni

Hi to everyone and my sincere condolences to all of you who have lost your best furry friend. I just found this page and I find it to be very helpful and comforting.

I just found out that my 8 year old chocolate lab has liver cancer and I am thinking about putting her down before she gets too bad. It has been a wrenching few days since her diagnosis. I am crying my heart and eyes out just thinking of not having her in my life anymore. I am spending the next few days being as close as I can be to her. I am so glad that I found this support group. Love and hugs to all!
Apr 30, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sorry to share this but . . .
by: Deb

Payton has passed away, but I am so grateful for the connection I've made here. While it is so difficult to let go I am so very sure it was the right decision at the right time. I'm sorry for all who have gone thru such loss. I encourage all who still have their treasures here to spend as much time as possible together while the quality of his/her life is still there. Take Care All.


Love,

Deb
Apr 27, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I am so sorry to share that in common with you
by: Anonymous

I am so very sorry to hear about yet another beloved furry friend of one's life having been diagnosed with liver cancer. Please know you aren't alone. I will hope and pray that yours and all others who are still with us will have some quality special days left. I am being so careful to think of Payton's best interest in every decision I make. Make sure you take time from your tears to drink in the time you have left, Hon.

Love, Deb
Apr 27, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Love Our Dog
by: Debbie

Dear Deb,

I am so sorry for you too! I am right now crying my heart/eyes out for today we came home from the vet with our 11 year old Australian shepherd who has been diagnosis with liver cancer. It came as a complete shock for he was so healthy until two weeks ago! I understand that hole in your heart!
Apr 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks Lynda
by: Deb

Thank you so much for the suggestions. I am so sorry for your loss. I'm so grateful to have found this site but saddened to know Kate and so many others have been affected by liver cancer as well. I pray they find a cure soon for both humans and pets.
Apr 18, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Deb
by: Lynda

I lost my lab in February and miss her beyond words. Sorry to know you are going through it too.

As for the cracked pads, we all know how hard it is to treat the feet, but I had a couple of tricks I used when Kate got sore pads.

Whenever we came back from a walk in spring when people are spraying and such, I gave her feet a soak with epson salts in lukewarm water with a very soft nail brush in a big shallow plastic storage container. She liked it, and it washed away irritants and helped heal raw spots.

If the cracking is bad, I also applied whatever salve seemed best and painless and put a baby sock over it. I kept an eye on her and she was pretty good about not messing with it. They stay on pretty well, but will slide off eventually. Sometimes I secured it with bandage tape. The sock is soft, clean and flexible and kept the dirt off the wound.

I know how much you want your friend's last days to be comfortable and happy. Good luck.
Apr 15, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Liver Cancer & Badly Cracked Pads
by: Deb

I first want to say I just found this doing research for my sweet golden retriever who has been living with liver cancer for a few months now. Before I ask my question I want share with you all how very sorry I am to know your beloved dogs have been effected with it as well.

Has anyone experienced your dog developing very bad cracks on the pads of their feet with bleeding? Any suggestions?

I know from looking at my sweet boy that he's starting to go downhill and want so badly to make decisions based on his quality of life.
Apr 14, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Vaccinations when a dog is sick-get rid of that vet!!!
by: Anonymous

I read someones post that said they took their westie when it was sick to get vaccinations...what kind of vet do you have??? Run run far away from that "vet!!! It's common sense NOT to get vaccines when your dog is sick. Guess that vet was trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you before your dog passed. How very very sad.
Apr 02, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		my baby
by: Sue and Eddie

Im reading these comments and am overcome with how you all feel and totally sympathise with you all. My boxer has all the key symptoms described in all your stories. I have a terrible dilema and I live daily with watching him breath and maybe he will be better in the morning.

The truth is he is now not eating and I know that he doesn't have much time left. The pain in making that final decision - how can I do this to my best friend who has alway been there for me.

I have another three dogs but they will never be as close as Eddie. I'm just so concerned as he is not even taking his medication now. In my mind I have made a decision to take him to the vets on Monday 4th April and will probably let him sleep. I just feel that reading your stories had helped me as I feel so guilty and feel my boy is suffering. This is all happening so quickly and I want to slow it all down but I can't.

I can sympathise with you all and will make the most of the next 24 hours with my boy.

Take care all.
Mar 31, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lost my sweet boy March 30, 2011
by: Anonymous

So sorry to hear of everyone's loss. I lost my sweet boy Riley yesterday due to liver cancer that took on so fast.

For the last month he would go through phases of not wanting to eat and move but would then bounced back and was just fine. Vet & I thought it was old age & arthritis. This last time he was really bad and we got x-ray and blood work on Monday. Both came back horrible. There's an emptiness in my heart that I can't believe he is gone.
Mar 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Molly and Matilda's Mom
by: Anonymous

Forgive me, I meant to address the last passage to Molly and
Matilda's Mom.
Mar 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Matilda's Mom
by: Anonymous

Please try not to punish yourself for what could or couldn't have been. When I look back on my dog's last days there were things that stuck out as being out of the ordinary - things that I hoped were just due to her advanced age - things that in her early years would have warranted a trip to the vet asap. My pup would have been 13 in July but I never thought of her as being old and so it would appear that I chose to overlook these things. It would also appear as though I went against my intuition BUT maybe, just maybe, somewhere in the back of our minds we are urged by a force far greater than our own to do things that are ultimately in the best interest of our pets - even if they don't appear as such on the surface.

Please take heart - it is better to have loved and lost your dear dog than to have never have had her at all.

I hope that you will take care of yourselves.
Mar 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Never will forgive myself
by: Molly's Mom

I am so sorry for all your losses due to cancer. My dog with cancer is surviving at the present but my beautiful other girl who was fine is gone.

Last weekend we went to my daughter's house in MD to celebrate a birthday. We have two labs: Molly and Matilda (yellow and black). Molly would turn 13 the end of April 2011. Matilda would be 12 in December. Matilda has recently been operated on for mast cells and has many fatty tumors so she was sleeping most of the day. Molly loved the car trip down and just wandered the property investigating every leaf and twig. She was having trouble with her hips but still was able to get around by herself.

I fed them around 4 p.m. as usual and I thought everything was fine until we were going to bed around 9 p.m. and found clear vomit in the hallway. Thinking it was the black lab's, I cleaned it up and we went to bed. Molly always sleeps in bed with us but when she got in bed she vomitted more clear liquid. My husband went with her and sat outside in the grass but by the time they returned Molly was staggering.

For some ungodly reason we "assumed" she was dying and did not try to find an emergency vet to go to. Instead we thought we would see how she did through the night and take her to be put to sleep later in the morning if we had to. I laid with her on the floor until 6 a.m. when she wimpered then wretched and released her bowels. Her stomach was huge.

Now I have read all the articles about "Bloat" and cannot stop crying that I may have been able to save my little girl! Why did we think this was the better way for her to go to sleep!!? I will never forgive myself for letting her remain in pain when maybe she could have been saved.

She was the sunshine of my life and I will never ever forgive myself for being so IGNORANT about Bloat. Please be aware of what a dreaded condition it is and what can be done "sometimes" to save your beautiful furry babies!!
Mar 26, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Good Bye Sweet Archie
by: Anonymous

We lost our 12 year old West Highland Terrier, Archie, on February 23rd to liver cancer.

His 1st symptoms were in August. We gave him vitamins (E and milk thistle) and fed him a special food for liver that was prescribed by our vet. He seemed to have more good days that bad, and we did not realize how ill he really was. More than not, he was his usual self. On the day he died, we took him to the vet to get his vaccinations. After his vaccine when we were leaving, he pretty much shut down. Would not move - just stood in one place. It was just too much excitement for him, and he did not get to come home. An ultrasound showed the lesions bleeding in his abdomen and the vet said it was time for him to go.

We definitely symphathize with each of you grieving for your beloved pet. They are a big part of our families, best friends. Archie was with us for 12 years and we feel truly blessed by having him in our family. It was a month ago this last week that we lost him, and my husband and I are both crying and missing him immensely. It doesn't seem right for him not to be here in our home, at our feet.

We are thankful that Archie is no longer suffering. We believe he is with our God whom loves all his creatures.
Mar 25, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Paxton
by: Melissa

I lost my beloved border collie great pyrenees mix on March 23.

Like many of the entries I've read here, my girl had just two incidents before passing away. During the first, 2 or 3 weeks ago, she refused to eat and spent the night just a few steps from the door after returning from being outside.

She never refused food so I knew something was wrong. I called the vet and he asked me to check her gums - they were pink - and feel her stomach for distention - it felt normal. We chalked it up to a bad day for her arthritis or, perhaps a reaction to the new treat I had given her.

Then, just three days ago, she ate breakfast, went outside as usual and then, around mid-day she began to have very labored breathing, shaking in her front, right leg, didn't want to get up, refused her favorite treat and just stayed put until we put her in the car to get to the vet. She loves to ride in the car so she perked up almost (emphasis on almost) as though things were OK. At the vet she wouldn't move. We had to carry her into the exam room.

A scan was done. The mass was found. We asked to go back to give her a kiss and am so glad that we did. She made it through the emergency surgery but passed away before awakening, most likely due to a clot to the brain or heart.

She had cancer on her liver and diaphragm and would not have been with us very long had she pulled through the surgery. Believe it or not our vets told us that her liver numbers were only up 10 percent so the disease is mysterious in the manner that it takes hold. I consider it a blessing that our dog went peacefully while at rest but long to have been able to hold her one last time.

This came on very quickly and without any clear forewarning. Our girl was headed to 13 years and was arthritic so we thought she was just slowing down. The only true sign I had that something was wrong was her turning away from her food - something that she never ever did.

I wish all of you well and know that you have treasured every moment you've had with your pets. They are such loyal supporters and faithful friends. My dog's absence is slowly and painfully beginning to sink in. I will miss her like no other dog I've owned. She was that special.
Mar 25, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sayler is not doing well
by: Margo

Lynda, thank you for your kind words. They really help.

Sayler did better for a few days, ate a bit of boiled chicken and her prednisone and did not vomit until yesterday. She would not eat, I found her hiding under the bed. She vomited several times. Today, she has not eaten anything, only drank water. she is weak and can't seem to keep her feet under her. She has vomited everything.

My husband is holding her right now and her breathing is labored. I have called the vet and they suggest that its time to let her go. I just can't. If she gets worse during the night we will have to euthanize her tomorrow. I don't want her to suffer, but its so hard to let such a loved and wonderful pet go. My heart goes out to all who have gone thru this.
Mar 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Lynda
by: Mel

Lynda, I lost Bailey a couple of days after you lost Kate, and I know all too well those waves of grief that wash over you. I knew losing Bailey would hit me hard, but nothing could have prepared me for the level of grief I am experiencing.

I still cry several times a day, and can't put the radio on because certain songs set me off. I always listened to the radio and used to sing to Bailey. Now all those songs return to haunt me.

The house is so quiet, the garden so empty. I feel lost and very much alone. I still can't quite believe he's gone. Everything happened so quickly, that I am left wondering if I acted too hastily. But I know in my heart I didn't. He was clearly suffering, and getting worse.

It is so hard to know when the right time comes to let them go. I was hoping the vet would intervene, but through discussion, she patiently allowed me to come to the decision for myself. The minute I made my decision she said it was the right decision and that she would do the same if he was her dog, which brings me some shred of comfort.

It broke my heart, but I would rather suffer than see him suffer.

Big hugs to everyone.

Mel xx
Mar 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Sayler and Margo
by: Lynda

My heart broke all over again to hear about Sayler. I wrote in a while back about my companion Kate. We had almost 2 weeks together after her diagnosis of liver cancer. It was sweet to have the time with her but it was also the most agonizing and painful experience. I knew there was no escaping the inevitable end, but emotionally I just wanted to put her in the car and keep driving until she didn't have cancer, didn't have to die. She didn't seem to be in pain, but she was clearly fading.

Nights seemed peaceful as she slept and I hoped she would slip away in her sleep but I was afraid of waiting too long and causing suffering.

People kept telling me I would know when it was time to euthanize her, but I'm not sure I ever did know for sure and the decision was painful and uncertain. It helped to know that she wasn't as agonized as I was. She only knows she is tired and not hungry. She lived in the present and was not troubled about regrets or dying.

She died February 19.

I miss her terribly and am hit with waves of grief, but I know the waves are getting a little further apart as time and motion help me heal. I was lucky to know her. I'm sure you treasure Sayler as much. My thoughts are with you both. The vet specialist who made the diagnosis said he had just been through a similar experience with his own dog. He gently encouraged me to care for myself as well as my dog. I hope you will do the same.
Mar 23, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bailey
by: Mel

On 21st Feb I had to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to my darling Labrador Bailey. I'm not sure of his exact age because I adopted him when he was 5. he would have been about 10 1/2 to 11 years old.

He seemed perfectly fine, and then on 12th Feb he came home from being taken for a walk, and refused his dinner, something he had never done before. I thought he had eaten something that disagreed with him, and later that day I managed to tempt him with some tuna and rice. The next day he didn't seem so keen on the tuna, but would take chicken and beef if offered. Over the next couple of days his appetite worsened. I was having to feed him by hand. He was also drinking a lot of water.

I took him to the vet and she said his abdomen was tender and she did blood tests which showed high liver enzymes, so started him on antibiotics. Over the following days he continued to go downhill, although sometimes he appeared to show some signs of improvement. I felt very anxious, but I figured I needed to give the antibiotics time to work. That week was one of the worst of my life... a roller-coaster of emotions. One minute fearing the worst, the next minute thinking he was turning the corner and getting better.

I took him back to the vet, fearing the worst, and my fears were confirmed as soon as I saw the look on the vet's face.

My dog had lost 1kg in 6 days, was losing muscle tone and his head was becoming pointed on top. He looked so depressed, with no interest in anything around him. He just lay there on the hard tiled floor, not even lifting his head.

He didn't have a temperature, but had drunk 3 litres of water the day before, and I was having to let him out into the garden every 2 hours during the night. It was obvious this wasn't an infection and I asked if he should have a scan, something the vet had discussed with me the week before if the antibiotics didn't work.

When I asked about the scan, the vet shook her head and said, "it's very serious, I think he has cancer." I couldn't bear to see him suffer any longer, and after asking many questions I made the painful decision to have him put to sleep there and then. Once I said it, the vet immediately said I had made the right decision, and that she would do the same if he was her dog.

I am devastated. He was my whole world, my baby, and I miss him so much.

The problem with liver disease is it only shows marked symptoms when the liver is in late stages of failure. With the benefit of hindsight I can see he was getting tired, but I put it down to getting old. He had been sick a couple of times during the night, regurgitating grass with bile, but that was nothing unusual because he had always grazed on grass.

My heart goes out to all of you who have lost your beloved dogs to this terrible disease, or who are facing the heartbreaking decision to put your dog out of their suffering. xx
Mar 22, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Beautiful Sayler is Dying
by: Margo

My wonderful, sweet and loving Dachshund, Sayler, is 11 years old and was diagnosed with liver tumors last night. I have been crying since yesterday.

Same situation as many of you, Sayler went to the Vet on Saturday to have a paw checked, the Vet trimmed her nails and said she was in perfect health.

On Sunday I noticed she was lethargic and did not want to eat. She slept a lot and was sluggish. That night she threw up; I assumed she had eaten something that did not agree with her.

On Monday she was really sluggish and threw up again, so I rushed her to the vet. He said her white cell count was very high & had a temperature. Did x-rays and saw a mass. She was anemic so he gave her a transfusion. Later that day we took her to get a sonogram and by midnight we were told the bad news. There was no internal bleeding but she had several tumors on her liver. Vet gave her Prednisone and she awoke a little peppier today, so she ate a little chicken only to throw it up. She is laying next to me as I write sleeping.

To know that there is no hope is unbearable. I don't know how long she will last. I am devastated and feel helpless. I don't want her to suffer but dont know what to do.
Mar 22, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sophie
by: Beth

We found out last week that Sophie, our lovely 12 year old black shepherd mix, has liver tumors. Sophie is a remarkable dog - loyal (of course), kind to her little friends (two havanese we got a few years ago), and in many ways, she is the rock of the family.

We took her to the vet due to blood in her urine. The vet thought at first that she was dying from some kind of internal bleeding. But the bleeding appeared to stop and after further examination and radiology exam, she determined that she may have a large tumor in her abdomen. She sent us home with some antibiotic in case of a urinary tract infection (which did turn out to be the case) and directions to bring her back the next day for a sonogram with a specialist.

Well, the sonogram revealed the tumors in her liver. One 7+ cm in diameter, and two smaller tumors on other lobes. He advised us that we could do surgery to try to remove them, but because of the involvement of multiple lobes, that surgery would probably not be entirely successful and would be a major strain on her. He also offered a needle biopsy and possible chemo (if metastatic).

We have opted, however, to ride this out with Sophie and make her as happy and comfortable as possible until she goes. We just think the procedures will be too hard on her and we don't want her to suffer any more than necessary. We are very sad but are comforted in knowing what a great life she has had after being rescued at 10 months of age from a shelter.

Sophie's best friend, my precious Rotty named Kylee, died four years ago and that almost killed Sophie. She got a very severe case of acute pancreatitis. She came through that, however, and has been the rock of our family for the past four years.

Thanks to all that have shared here. I came here trying to gain a better understanding of how quickly this disease might progress. What I've learned here is disheartening but I am glad to have a better idea of what we are up against and what signs to look for to tell us the end is approaching.

But for now, Sophie appears to be fairly comfortable and at ease. She continues to enjoy her walks in the morning and evening and is still eating normally. She has been excessively thirsty for a few months now and that continues. She is taking Denamarin, Pepsid AC, and Yunnan Paiyao to help with the internal bleeding.

I know, though, that she understands that something is happening to her - the way she looks at me has changed. Fear in the eyes of a fearless dog is so sad.

Thanks for sharing and listening,
Beth
Feb 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Miss my Nicki
by: Lyle

I can't believe how fast all this unfolded. 2 days ago, Nicki (our lab mix) stopped eating. The next day she was very lethargic. At night when she laid flat, she had a hard time breathing. Took her to the vet, thinking she had a cold. They found her red blood cell count real low.

The vet was very concerned and sent us to a specialist that day. The specialist found that she had cancerous cysts on her liver and one has burst and bled into her abdomen cavity. He gave us some options for surgery, and said that she would need chemo, and maybe live 3-6 months.

We could not put our beloved Nicki through that. We sadly made the decision to put her to sleep. I miss her so much. My heart goes out to everyone here who has lost their best friend. It hurts so much, but I'm glad I had the privilege to have had such a great dog as Nicki.
Feb 14, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Lynda
by: Anonymous

Lynda,

I am sorry that you are going through what I did with Reno (in the picture)... I wish I would've put him to sleep sooner; but I kept holding out that maybe the tests were wrong and I could heal him.

He vomited continually the day that he passed; I realized how bad it was when he threw up a pea (from his soft dog food) that he ate on Thursday and came up whole on Sunday. Then I knew; as the night went by, we were getting ready to meet the vet, as I couldn't do it earlier that day.

Words cannot express what I feel for you and everyone on this board. However, I will send you prayers and sympathy for what is to come. It sounds like your Katey has had a wonderful life and wonderful and caring parents....
Feb 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lynda & Kate
by: Hazel, Site Editor

Hi, Lynda,

I am so sorry to hear about Kate's condition. It is a very difficult decision to make and only you can tell when the right time is. But I think Kate will tell you - if she cannot eat much, or cannot keep food down, and is hiding in dark quiet places, it probably means that she is not quite well...

It's not easy to let go but I guess the one thing that gives us courage to make that final decision is the belief that, by letting go, we are being self-less and kind to our beloved companions. We are responsible for our pets' well-being. If that is compromised, then we have to take action - even though that would bring us pain and loss.

Our thoughts are with you and Kate. Be strong.
Feb 13, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Is today Kate's last day?
by: Lynda

I am grateful for this website and all the pet lovers who have shared their stories which are helping me shape my own devastating decisions.

My 11 year old adopted yellow lab mix is dying of liver cancer. We are together 24/7 so I notice as soon as something is "off". It started with her vomiting every few days and drinking more than usual. I played around with her diet and kept a close eye on her. At week 3 I took her in for blood and urine work. All results looked great. Then she stopped eating, and had other odd behavioral changes like finding dark quiet rooms and spaces to sleep in. We took xrays including a barium series. Again everything looked great. She ate for a day or so, then stopped again. It was the weekend so I drove 3 hours to a Portland specialist hospital, with the blessings of my local vet, where they did an ultrasound, noted nodules on the liver and spleen, and did needle aspirations which confirmed cancer on both organs. While surgery or chemo were options, it wasn't recommended considering her age.

Kate hates vet visits and procedures and I knew extending her life for a short time wouldn't outweigh the misery she would experience and it wouldn't change the end. We went home, me crying all the way.

That was a week ago. Now I feed her whatever she'll eat, including fast food burgers or raw hamburger. She still rallies with joy for our morning outings, looking relaxed and happy. She sleeps well at night, getting up now and then going outside and pee, but she is getting weak and looks uncomfortable the rest of the day.

I know that this is a one-way path, that each day is better than the next day will be. I have read your stories and I don't want to wait until she is in excruciating pain. She is a reserved dog and I can't tell if she is really hurting. We have done special things this week, visiting friends, taking peaceful walks in the hills and parks we love, much as we have done her entire life. She is still aware and present, so I am afraid. Afraid of putting her to sleep when she is still so aware. Afraid of what I'll do and how I'll live without her. My vet is so compassionate and will come to the house, maybe even today which is Sunday, but I am frozen with fear of making that call. But I don't want to wait until her body fails completely. She hasn't eaten much in 2 weeks, but today she ate a McDonald's cheeseburger which she'll probably vomit soon. I know there is no getting better. I'm just not sure how to help her to the end which I think may be today. Any thoughts?
Feb 07, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		update
by: Michelle & Gromit

It has been a month since Gromit's surgery and he has just had his first check up. All the blood work came back 100% normal. He is on a daily low dose of chemo (pill) to keep any cancer cells from developing. He hasn't suffered any side effects. He just had his 12th birthday last Mon. :)

PCB-They removed about 1/4 of his liver, on the right side.

Feb 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		We lost our beloved Holly
by: Leslie

Thank you so much for this page, it has helped me
through such a hard time. I am so sad, I am feeling like I should have know something was wrong.

We lost our beautiful baby Holly (10 years old). It was so fast. She started getting sick to her stomach one evening before bed, but then seemed better in the night. Then in the morning she got sick again and was lethargic and losing strength fast, so I took her to the Vet at noon, and by 2:30 pm he told me she had autoimmune disease and her liver was huge. He thought it was cancer and told me there was nothing he could do. He could try a blood transfusion, but the autoimmune disease would just destroy all the blood again.

I was devastated - it was so fast. Our baby was put to sleep. Holly seemed fine to us up until then - no weight loss, ate well, played as usual, no crying, slept well. It is so hard, I keep wishing there was something I could have done, or wish I had sensed something sooner.

We miss her so much. We have her 2 babies still, they are 3 years old, now I am worried about their livers. I will have to do some research to try and fend off the horrible disease.

We love and miss you soooo much Holly. I hope we are helping someone else with a broken heart.

Leslie
Jan 27, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Casey
by: Adrienne

To Barbara - I hope you've gotten some good news. I have found it so frustrating and confusing going through all of these tests with no clear answers and understand.

I don't have good news for Casey. Her fine needle aspirates show lymphoma (likely). We saw an oncologist who ran more tests and determined it may be a more serious form of cancer based on her neck and back lymph nodes being clear. They wanted to do a biopsy to remove pieces from her liver and run more tests, but after seeing how much energy is taken from her to go through the car ride and more needles, and hearing the risk of internal bleeding from the biopsy only to tell me it may be worse than lymphoma, I decided not to put her through the test. My only option is chemo. I have thought this through from every angle and agonized over it, but for her I've decided it's not the right decision. She would need to be left at the clinic all day for her injection every two weeks and need round the clock supervision for 48 hours after due to side effects. Casey hates car rides, hates being away from me, and certainly hasn't enjoyed feeling nauseous and lethargic. I was told chemo would only buy her about a year including the 26 weeks of treatment. Another round of chemo may be an option at that time, but there are potentially painful and devastating side effects.

All I can say it this is what made my decision... if it were me, I'd do the chemo and take my year and do everything I've always wanted to do and I'd tolerate the pain and side effects because it's my choice. But for her, that's already her every day - she does all the things she loves all day long. Why put her through that when all her memories up to this are happy ones.

She started prednisone (a steroid) yesterday and it's the worst and best thing. Within a day she's almost as good as new. She naps more than usual but is her old happy, hungry self. Sadly I have to keep reminding myself that this will only last a few short weeks at most before she will decline again. At that point I've promised myself that I won't drag it out and put her through any pain. But at least I know I will get the chance to say my goodbyes and ensure she is not alone in the end.

I want to say all of this to you...the very fact that we are on this site and telling our stories and crying all over ourselves while we do, means that we have loved an animal so much and given something a wonderful life. Even if it is cut short, we've given them so much joy and in return they have enriched our lives. And that really means something. It makes me so happy to know that there are other "crazy dog mommies/daddies" out there like me.

I may or may not update, I don't think any miracles are going to be happening for Casey but I'm going to love her like crazy and feed her the best cuts of steak I can get my hands on while I still can.

My thoughts are with all of you.
Jan 22, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Hunnie girl
by: Barbara

Sorry to hear about your loss. I am writing with tears in my eyes because I am going through the pain of deciding what to do as we speak.

My little darling is at the hospital with all the symptoms of liver cancer which has the same symptoms of lipto. I am waiting on a chest xray to see if any nodules exist, if none are present then a sonorgram tomorrow, and more test on Monday. I personally believe she has cancer and I have already invested close to a $1000.00 in vet visits, medicine, and hospitalization and I still have no clear answer on what is really wrong with her.

I rescued her 5 years ago today, not knowing her age or history. I think she is somewhere between 10 and 11 years old now. I have loved and spoiled her and now I know I have to let her go. I don't want to but I have to think about her, not me. If I put her down this weekend, I want you all to know she has been my constant joy and she will be missed. My stray cat is already wondering where Hunnie is.

My heart is heavy and is with all of you.

Blessing,
Barbara
Jan 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Adrienne
by: PCB

Hello Adrienne:

I think you are doing all the right things - if they cannot determine how damaged the liver is, I would recommend going through an exploratory but ask the vet or oncologist to let you know if
during surgery they are able to determine the cancer has spread beyond control, that you can make the choice to put your pet down at that time.

We had a little one who went thru the surgery when there wsan't much hope and she died two days later. It was too much for her.

Our prayers are with you.

PCB & JT
Jan 21, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Holding out hope
by: Adrienne

I've come across this site as I madly search for some hope for my 6 year old Golden Retriever Casey. She was a rescue dog who I have loved and spoiled to pieces and I thought I'd done everything right and always taken every precaution in regards to her health.

Eleven days ago she suddenly didn't want her breakfast, which is highly unusual. But she continued bouncing around, happy as can be and nothing else seemed out of sorts. She picked at food that I'd make more appetizing with little treats, but a few days later I had her blood work done and the results showed elevated liver enzymes.

This morning I took her in for an ultrasound and found out that nodules can be found throughout her liver. My vet suspects they are malignant and that it has metastasized, but I am waiting on the results of a needle biopsy done which was done through the ultrasound.

I'm being told it may show nothing, or something, and am being talked to about doing a more invasive biopsy or an exploratory surgery. I don't know what to do. I can't stand the thought of her suffering needlessly, but also can't stand the idea of ending her life so early if there was any hope. The hardest part is seeing how happy she still is. She refuses kibble, but gobbles down rice, egg, and wet food. However, she seems so lethargic after she eats.

Thank you all for your stories. I'm so devastated for those of you who have lost your loved ones, but it is helping me to accept that maybe searching for an answer through surgeries is not the way to go. If anyone has any insights or ideas or miracles to share, please do. I can't accept this yet.
Jan 07, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Michelle & Gromit
by: PCB

So happy to hear your story! Glad that Gromit is home and doing well.

Just curious- how much of the liver was removed and was the tumor isolated in one lobe and not attached to other organs?

Our prayers were answered and we will continue praying for his recovery.

God Bless.

PCB
Jan 06, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Good news!
by: Michelle & Gromit

2 weeks and $9,000 later...

Saw the wonderful people at Veterinary Cancer Group in Tustin, who did some more tests - needle aspiration, CT scan, etc. and recommended surgery to remove the tumor.

Gromit had his surgery 2 days ago and came home yesterday, minus a little bit of liver and spleen! He is doing great, eating and drinking, pooping and peeing normally. He's a little spaced out b/c of the fentanyl patch but otherwise in good spirits and happy to be home! The surgery went well, they were able to remove the entire 4cm tumor and had no problems with the surrounding arteries. He decided to take out the spleen as well since there was some scar tissue there (even though the needle aspiration came back negative). His prognosis is complete recovery. He will be 12 in 2 weeks and even if we bought him just a few more years, it was worth every penny!

I guess the key to beating liver cancer is catching it early. The only way to tell is by looking at their liver enzymes, since they rarely show symptoms until it is too late. I will be doing this twice a year with my other dogs.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.
Jan 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cowboy and Charlotte
by: JT

I realize the pain you feel because you think you should have done something ....but this cancer is not an easy one to detect.

We had our little one in the vet several times as she was trying to tell us she didn't feel well. The TUMOR (WHICH WAS 4 CM LARGE) wasn't detected in the physical exam and her blood work came back normal one month before she was diagnosed with liver cancer!

We are in the process of trying to make a difference foir pet opwners and their friends to
provide ways to PREVENT this awful disease and plan to have a website dedicated for this purpose.

Cowboy will be added to our list to pray for.

When you think about it, our friends are probably in a much better place than we are!

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jan 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cowboy our Jack Russel - liver cancer
by: Charlotte

Hi All

Our Cowboy was less than two years old. Last week just after Christmas he was very lethagic and not playful at all. I thought that maybe it was the heat as it was about 38 degrees Celcius.

The next day he seemed fine and was eating but in the night he vomited. Since he's a Jack Russell and always catching bugs and weird things, I thought he'd eaten something strange again. Next day he was good and the rest of the week he was himself. Sunday he was very miserable, ate a little and then vomited in the middle of the night.

I rushed him to the vet Monday morning only to find out he has severe liver cancer and there is nothing the vet could do. We decided to put him down while he was still under anaesthetic.

My heart is broken; I wish I had known sooner so that we could have done something more. What I don't understand is how he was well all this time and then in one week he became so ill and also that he's so young. Is this normal? We buried him under his favourite tree. I missed our walk together this morning.
Dec 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Michele and Gromit
by: Regina

Hi Michele,

I just wanted to respond to your post.

I have a 12 1/2 yr old Brittany that was diagnosed with Liver Cancer in Feb 2010. He had surgery to have the mass removed. It was a hepatocellular carcinoma mass the size of a lime, and he also had 1/3 of his liver removed. I am very happy to say that he is happy and healthy and we are truly blessed.

Good Luck with Gromit, I hope all goes well.
Dec 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Murphy
by: MissinMurph

Hi All, I'm sad and amazed at the similarity in your stories. I'm very sorry for all who have lost their loved furry friends like me.

My story has a little twist. Oct 09 Murphy had an ear infection that lasted over 1 year. 4 Vets later I found a board certified dermatologist vet. He also looked in Murph's ear but could not see as it was blocked. Another round of anes & video otiscope where he found a tumor in his ear canal. Rushed off to the lab for a biopsy which came back as cancer. He needed surgery for an ear canal ablation. The ear canal, ear drum & middle ear were removed. The cancer surgeon was pretty sure he got it all but sent samples to the lab for testing & Murphy was pronounced cancer free!

The surgery was done Nov 10th 2010 & for the next 5 weeks he started acting like a puppy again, I couldn't believe the improvement. He also had a sty under his eyelid which the vet thought some eye cream meds would help but it did not & it was decided that the sty could be a tumor/cancer & needed to be removed.

Before that happened Murphy fell very ill on Dec 18th, 2010. At noon that day I noticed he was not moving, wouldn't get out of his bed & would not eat. He had light but labored breathing so I just kept an eye thought maybe he ate something gross outside. He remained that way all day, would only drink water if I brought it to him. I got him to go outside once & he walked like he was in a daze & eventually he just collapsed & lay on the snow, he never did that. Dec 19th same thing all day, Mon Dec 20th he got up & walked to the door so I jumped up out of bed, threw my shoes & coat on to go out with him, when he urinated - it was pure red & my heart just broke. He then walked toward the back of the yard & collapsed again. I had to walk his hind legs for him & off to the vet we went.

After many tests & ruling out what he did NOT have they did x-rays & an ultrasound that revealed a rather large mass on his liver - cancer. I was devastated & my heart hurt like never before. I could not understand how something that large went undetected for so long. So now I wonder if it had been there for a year & made his immune system so weak that the ear infection was far worse than normal & also the eye tumor under his eyelid.

I had to put my baby to sleep, hardest thing I've ever had to do as an adult. Murphy was my first pet as an adult. My mom & brother came up to be with me & we surrounded Murph with love while he went to heaven. Still can't stop crying & can't believe he's not here.

He was the best, most laid back dog ever. I will miss him each & every day until I see him again. I know he is in a better place, pain free, running & playing with my siblings dogs Foster & BabyGirl in doggie heaven.

Love you too much Murphy.
Dec 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For Grommitt
by: PCB

Yeah for Grommitt! I am curious - what meds was he on?

It is interesting - it seems that when the blood work indicates that the liver enzymes are elevated, it can be a good sign that it was caught early.

Unlike so many other stories (including ours) where our little one had a full panel one month prior to her being diagnosed and it was all fine!

We will continue to keep you all in our prayers and have asked our little one (who has crossed the rainbow bridge) to look over him as well.

Please keep us informed.

God Bless.

PCB
Dec 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Gromit - Home
by: Michelle

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers.

Gromit is home now and we go to the oncologist tomorrow. He seems perfectly fine, eating like a piglet, running around getting into mischief, showing no signs of having cancer. I hope the vet was right and we did indeed catch it early. We will know more tomorrow.

We are going to the Vet Cancer Group in Tustin, CA. Is anyone here familiar with them? They came highly recommended.
Dec 20, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Michelle
by: Anonymous

Michelle - I will pray that is the case - as there is hope when it is in only one lobe...

Please let us know what the outcome is...I have prayed to my little girl to help you through this in hopes of a positive outcome.

xoxo

PCB
Dec 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		thank you
by: Anonymous

Thank you for the info and suggestions. I think you are right - if they open him up and find it has spread, I would rather have him go peacefully than to wake him up, go through painful recovery, only to die days or weeks later. I will make sure we all say our "see you laters" before he goes in for surgery. When I called late last night he was comfortable and had eaten. He seems so normal, it is hard to believe he could die any day or any minute for that matter.

I spent all night researching and reading every vet journal online I could find. His only shot at a good prognosis and recovery is if the tumor is primary and in one mass, not nodular. I will pray this is the case, but I know the odds are against it.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers.
Dec 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For Michelle
by: Anonymous

Hello Michelle -

Our little girl was diagnosed with a similar sized tumor on the right side (in 2008). We also elected to have the surgery. When they opened her up, the cancer had spread to more than one lobe, was wrapped around the vena cava and was stuck to her other organs. She made it throught the sugery but only lasted a few days.

Unfortunately, this cancer is a difficult one to diagnose. Based on our experience, I would recommend that you ask the surgeon if they can inform you when they are in surgery if it has spread to the other lobes or organs and advise you accordingly (in other words, if the cancer has spread to an uncontrollable level, you can opt to not wake your loved one).

In our case, our little one only weighed about 7 lbs, had not eaten and the tumor was so large -she probably shouldn't have had the surgery - it was too much for her. We feel that if we had nore information, we would have asked the vet to close her up, not remove the tumor and taken her home for her final days.

In addition, have them discuss all your options:
exploratory surgery, removal of the mass if it is only in one lobe and if it is not - removal of what is possible and what is the likelihood of survival without pain or chemo.

Hope this helps - I will keep you in my prayers.
Dec 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Holding on to hope
by: Michelle

Last night I rushed my 12 yr old whippet to the ER. He had been out playing with his siblings and I heard him yelp. When I checked on him, nothing appeared to be wrong. About 10 minutes later, he was panting like crazy and his heart was beating so fast and so hard, i could literally hear it. He was acting confused and I thought maybe he was having a heart attack or maybe one of his siblings knocked him over and hurt his back (he only has 3 legs, he topples easily). So I rushed him to the vet, 90 min away and he was ok in the car, mostly calm, with panting fits every 20 min or so and a lot of butt licking. When we got there, they immediately took blood and did an x-ray. The x-ray showed he was constipated. That explained the pain and bloating. So the plan was to hook him up to an IV and flush his system, in case he ate something toxic.

Then the blood panel came back and his liver enzymes were ten times the normal level. So today they did an ultrasound and found a 4cm tumor on the right side of his liver. They did not find evidence that it has spread to other organs, in fact the vet said he looks incredibly healthy for his age. He recommended we take him to an Oncologist Monday and have the mass removed. He said we caught it "in time", being that he has had no symptoms. He eats well, has a lot of energy, no vomiting or diarrhea. So when I left today I felt ok.

I took him for a walk outside, he did his usual marking of territory, wasn't sluggish at all, seemed normal. But now after I have read all the tragic stories here, I am so scared. The vet did not even mention that he could take a turn for the worst overnight or tomorrow or the next day. He said it wasn't "dire". He said he could feel the tumor a little bit but it appears to be just on one lobe. They didn't want to chance a needle biopsy, especially since it will have to come out anyway.

Just diagnosing this has cost $3,000 so far. The surgery will be at least that much. I don't know what to do. He is the love of my life!! I know that I do not want him to suffer. I have accepted the fact that he may have to be put to sleep, if this turns out to be worse than the vet is letting on. I am so scared of that. Are they aware of what is happening? I don't want him to be scared. I have heard it is a good idea to have them put under with general anesthesia before giving the final shot. They did this with a 2 week old puppy of ours, so he would go peacefully.

I am just so wrecked right now. I am trying to be as optimistic as the vet but I am a realist too. Is it possible for dogs to have a successful tumor removal and continue to live a normal lifespan? Is there hope??
Nov 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Desi
by: Sharon E Purdy

My schipperke Desi passed away Tues night. He just laid down and could not get up. We took him to the vet and after x-rays it was determined that there was a growth on his spleen and there was was blood in his stomach. They would have to open him up to see what was what and when they did his liver was totally destroyed by cancer.

He had a healthy appetite - even ate his dinner that night - only thing that changed in him the last couple of weeks was that at night he would twitch for about 10 mins and I would hold him and he would calm down and that was that. No other signs of anything wrong, he was just 10 years old.
Nov 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lucy
by: Anonymous

Lucy suffered through the night... Vomited 3 times, her breathing was shallow and we made the decision to put her down this morning. We couldn't watch her suffer any longer. She's buried out back in the garden. Love ya Lucy. You will be missed. GOD BLESS...
Nov 20, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Our Lucy
by: The Thomas Family

Two weeks ago our 10 yr. old baby Lucy stopped eating and lost weight quickly. My husband and I thought it was her getting older or maybe even worms. We bought some worm medicine but she just kept getting worse.

This morning we finally took her to the vet and they diagnosed her with liver cancer. We started researching it and came across this website. We are so very sad knowing our Lucy is suffering. The vet gave us steroids and pain meds to give her. Now all we can do is wait and hope that the Lord will heal her or let her pass peacefully.

Thank you all who wrote on here, it has helped to know that so many care.

God Bless!

The Thomas Family
Nov 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same Story Same Pain
by: Evelyn

Hi: Reading your story about your lovely Reno Casino just broke my heart.

My sister and I just went through that this early morning with our beloved Cocker Spaniel (PANDITA). She was a happy and healthy dog - 8 years old - only 5 days ago when she lost her appetite and stopped eating. We took her to the vet the following day and they did all tests that pointed in the direction of erlichia and liver damage.

The Vet started the treatment immediately and she never responded to the drugs and I believe it was because her liver was already very damaged. Her tongue, skin and eyes turned completely yellow on the third day so I believe that she was in a terminal stage of liver cancer. We were by her side when she uttered this "yelp" sound that you mentioned and in spite of efforts to try to keep her alive, we had to put her to sleep today at 3:30 a.m.

The pain is unbearable, deep, overwhelming, but reading your story made us feel "accompanied" in this very very difficult day of our lives. We love Pandita as much as you love your Reno Casino. They were profoundly loved and cherished. They are in dog heaven right now and I hope they become friends!!!
Oct 27, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Stella
by: Tamzin

I sat here with my Stella just saying goodbye as tomorrow she will go to play in the big field in the sky, to meet our darling Izzi who sadly died of old age last September.

Stella is my first puppy. I pulled her back from the brink of death at 4 weeks old when she was a sickly runt but oh so cute. So much love and joy she has given us these last nine years.

She was diagnosed with liver cancer this morning with no chance of recovery. Tommorrow seems far too close already.

Love you always my Stella. Tears is not enough to express my heartache.
Oct 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stella and Pearl's mom
by: Anonymous

It has been since Aug 26 that Stella died. The pain is no better it has just become part of me. I miss her so, sometimes I feel she is running through the kitchen with a potato she has snuck out of the pantry. She took part of me with her. Some days I wish I could have just crawled in that hole with her.

Stella, I am so sorry I wish I could have seen the signs sooner. I love you. Pearl misses you. She still looks for you.
Oct 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Rosie
by: Phylly

I understand how you feel about not saying good-bye - I elected to have my little one do the surgery and she passed a few days later - it was too much for her and they couldn't get all of the tumor. I respect you decision to not have put Rosie through the surgery! I did not get a chance to say good-bye and it hurts!

God Bless!

Phylly
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Regina
by: Phylly

Thanks Regina - the explanation sure does help.

You are right, P.G. was very ill prior to the surgery and also had an atrophed pancreas!
The cancer was in 3 lobes of the liver in addition to the vena cava (not sure if it was pressed on it or in it) but the vet indicated that it was sticking to other organs including
the pancreas...

It is so hard to believe that my little one had such an ugly disease and one that couldn't be detected sooner - similar to the other stories,
she had blood work one month before and
everything was normal - that is one that is so
dificult to comprehend. I took her to the vet because she was acting scared and was hovering between my legs and I told the vet that something was wrong - she was examined, had blood taken but of course we didn't do anything further because the blood work was normal (now I know to maybe push a liitle and take that x-ray or ultrasoound as she was definitely trying to tell me something!)

I do have a friend who is a vet (in antother city) and she also said the surgery itself could have weakened the diaphram (given the size of the tumor) or it may have been hidden behind the tumor and couldn't be seen. Guess we will not ever know how that happened!

I cannot thank you enough for sharing as there is some comfort in all of this!

God Bless

xoxo

Phylly
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phylly
by: Regina

The tumor was not in the Inferior Vena Cava, just pressed up against it. The IVC is a large vessel that delivers blood to the heart from the body and it is very close to the liver. I think that if a tumor invades the vessel it would certainly be more difficult remove if it could be removed at all.

It is hard to know for certain if an oncologist would have made difference, given she had another illness as well.

I don't think that surgery could've caused the hiatal hernia, it was probably something she already had but was not symptomatic.

I hope this helps some. I know how you feel, you want answers to why this happened. I know it is hard but try not to second guess yourself. You did the best you could with information you had.

As for my Bruno, he was first diagnosed last fall. He had tumors on his torso area and had surgery twice to remove them. He started chemo in July. On 9/22 went into an acute respiratory crisis, and after 24 hrs he died in my arms at home.

Love and Peace be with you,
Regina
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		regina
by: phylly

Regina:

OKay so he had one third of the liver removed in addition to the tumor that was in the vena cava?

So, you being an rn, do you mind if I ask you a few questions:

With P.G. having cancer in 3 liver lobes on the right side, and it having been stuck to other organs, do you think she would have a chance if she had surgery done with an experienced oncologist?

Also, the fact that P.G. had a hiatal hernia after
the surgery, could that have been because it was weakened or that the surgeon nicked it?!

How involved was the cancer in your other dog?

Thanks for all your input- it really helps!
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		TO Phylly
by: Regina

Hi again :)

After I wrote my last entry to you I went back to check Petey's records. I was mistaken when I told you that he didn't have any liver removed. He did. 1/3 of it. It was hepatocellular carcinoma.

Sorry for the confusion, with Bruno being sick these last months, I got confused I guess.

Thanks for the well wishes, Regina
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to Regina
by: Phylly

Hey Regina:

Appreciate you getting back to me - I feel much better knowing that your dog's tumor was not in the liver - as the vet told me P.G.'s was in 3 liver lobes and attached to her other organs - so did Petey have a benign tumor or was it hepatacellualr carcinoma?

I am truly struggling with this as I feel that I
should have taken het to an oncologist.

So happy to hear your little one has a clean bill of health.

xoxo

Phylly
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FOR BETSY & CISCO
by: Linda

I am so very sorry for your loss of your sweet Shepherd mix. I lost my Andie (also a Shepherd mix) on July 28, 2010. See my story down below here.

Words cannot express how we feel when we lose our beloved pets. I cry about Andie almost every day now, but the pain is easing a little as each day goes by. I have a chocolate Lab named Brownie, who has been with us for nearly 2 years and she has been my "rock." This past weekend, we adopted another chocolate Lab, whom we named "Nestlie" (because he's chocolate and because all of my dogs' names have ended in "ie").

Please know that those of us who have lost a pet to this terrible disease understand how you feel, although we can't know your pain. We all deal with it in our own ways. Mine has been terrible. I know I did the right thing for my Andie and I also know that he wouldn't have lived even a few more days if I'd done the biopsy and possible removal of the huge mass he had. At 14, he was starting to fail a little anyway, but surgery on him would have killed him. He hadn't eaten for 4 days when I had to put him to sleep and he was so weak.

I also wait for the day when I can be reunited with him (and all my other wonderful dogs). It should be quite a reunion! My thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Take care and please respond to our comments. I think it helps us heal a little easier.
Oct 06, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cisco, the rescue who rescued me
by: Betsy

Today we lost our 9 year old Shepherd mix, apparently to liver and spleen cancer. We had no idea. I thought he was slowing down a bit, and occasionally skipped breakfast. He did have increased thirst the past weeks. We walked daily, 2-5 miles.

However, yesterday he ate and drank and went for a long walk, though he dragged the last half mile. I thought last night he was just under the weather. Today he neither ate nor drank, so at 2:30, he leapt into the back of the car to go to the vet. We brought him home at 6 after being hydrated and pumped with antibiotics. A half hour later, when he couldn't stand or lift his head, we put him back in the car to go to emergency. He died there while we were pulling out of the garage.

The vet called us a couple hours later after the autopsy, because he was flummoxed by the speed of the disease, and had discovered nodules all over his spleen and liver.

He was a brave, cheerful, loving, enthusiastic, loyal dog up until the day he died, quite literally. I don't know how he did it. I am heartbroken beyond words. Even in death he loved us, sparing us a long sad end. He was a rescue, nearly euthanized at one year old, but he found us and we found him, for which I will always be grateful.

Every walk strangers would remark on his looks and attitude. As a friend said, he was a "God" dog, one of the rare ones with a light that everyone loved. Already, I miss him so.
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Phylly
by: Anonymous

I cry as it sit here and read your story. You have to know that your best friend knew you were trying to help her and I pray that your happy memories of her can bring you some peace during this difficult time. Try to let go of the guilt you feel and cherish your happy memories. P.G. would not want you to be so sad. You did nothing wrong, you were trying to help her.

The tumor that Petey had was pressed up against the Inferior vena cava and the surgeon had a difficult time removing it. To my understanding it was encapsulated so it did not spread through out the liver and therefore none of the liver had to be removed. It was about the size of a lime.
Petey is now a healthy 12 1/2 year old. He got a clean bill of health a month ago.

I lost Petey's best friend Bruno, a 12 yr old Lab to complications of Mast Cell Tumors on 9/23/10. I understand the pain you feel. I am proud to be a dog mommy and know that I did everything I could to help him. What makes it bearable is that I know he knows that. I will never stop loving him and will rejoice the day I can feel those sweet velvet ears again. May God be with you. Love and Prayers to you.

Regina
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I miss my little girl - am blaming myself
by: Phylly

Hello Everyone:

This is a story about my little girl, P.G., an American Hairless Terrier who was diagnosed with liver cancer close to 13 years of age, after the vet removed 3 liver lobes!

P.G. had similar symptoms: almost passed out while walking to her water dish, not eating, etc.
Took her to the Vet who said she had to stay for observation. He later confirmed that she was very sick and had IMHA - an autoimmune disease
(it's like an AIDS virus) and also a tumor close to her liver. We had to get the IMHA under control before anything could be done.

After about 7-10 days of blood transfusions, various drugs, P.G.'s blood levels were elevated to the point where she could have surgery. But at this time she was weak from the IMHA and had hardly eaten at all!

The vet said I could take her home over the weekend but I was too afraid and regret not doing that! I probably would have taken her to the oncologist if she were home as I would have had time to think!

While P.G. was hospitalized, I took her records to an oncologist and intended to transfer her there for an additional opinion but I was also
concerned about moving her to an unfamiliar place so rather than take her to the surgeon, the vet (who I later found out was not board certified) performed the surgery and said he couldn't take out the entire cancer as it was too close to the vena cava. P.G. came out of the surgery but within 24 hours had a hiatal hernia! Our little girl did not make it home but died in the arms of a stranger which haunts me to this day!

We realize she had a terminal illness but as I read your stories, I am not sure why the vet didn't close her up so we could take her home!
I also see the imooirtance of ultrasounds and
making the decision after exploratory surgery not to resect the tumor!

This was my first little doggie who went everywhere with me - even on the golf course and I feel that I let her down by not taking her to the specialist! Money was not a concern and I feel like this will haunt me for the rest of my life. I have an appointment to consult with the women who helped me through her death 2 years ago.

I ask that you all pray for me - and through God ask my little P.G. to forgive me for putting her through all this and not being able to take her home!

God be with all of us :-)

Phylly
Oct 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Regina- would like to know how Brittany is doing
by: Phylly

Hey Regina:

Would like to know how Brittany is doing and where the tumor was located?

Phylly
Oct 04, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Still Miss My Little Girl
by: Phylly

It has been two years since I lost my little girl to liver cancer and I am still crying!

Regina - I am curious as to what size the tumor was and it's location of the liver - the left or right - as I also elected to have the surgery when P.G. was almost 13 (a vet performed the surgery not an oncologist which I still am mournful over) was wondering how your "friend" is doing :-)

Thanks and my prayers are with all those who have lost our loved ones !

Phylly
Sep 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to Ray
by: Donna

Thank you Ray, the info does help me, to know I saved her from a painful death makes me feel better.

Warmest regards

Donna
Sep 28, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		For Cheryl and Zeus
by: Anonymous

I am so sorry for the situation you are currently in. I can't imagine my life without my dog(s) and then to think of having something major happen in your life and not have them to be there for you -- I know it's devastating!

My story about my Andie dog is down below under July 29. He was put to sleep two months ago today (July 28). I loved him dearly and he was a great German Shepherd-mix. I can't believe all of this happened so quickly. Although he was 14 years old, that doesn't help the loss any. I'm glad I had my time with him from when I found him as a puppy until the very second I held his sweet paw in my hand as he left me.

There really are no words that can offer you any solace at this time. We all deal with our losses and tragedies in our own way. Just know that there are hundreds of us (probably thousands?) who know what you're going through and can offer our shoulders to you, if only via this web site. Take care.
Sep 28, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		my companion
by: cheryl

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you as I sit here at my computer with tears streaming down my face.

My rottweiler, Zeus, was just diagnosed with cancer to the liver, kidney, and prostate. For the past year, I had him to his vet numerouse times for bleeding from the penis. He was diagnosed with prostatitis, given antibiotics, and sent on his way. He was just recently treated for malignant oral melanoma and was cured, but the bleeding returned. Again, he was treated with antibiotics and sent home.

I finally demanded something to be done and a sonogram revealed the three tumors. Right now he is home with me and acting like a puppy all over again. He's eating, playing, running. I am so heartbroken. I have a chronic illness and am scheduled for major surgery, but I can't bear the thought of going through this without my companion. He is the love of my life! I can't stop crying.
Sep 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Donna (Shiva's parent)
by: Ray

Reading your story brings back sad memories of last month for me with our Golden Retriever (Sneakers). I had also second-guessed myself about all the 'what-if' scenarios, and began many days of research into them (I kept trying to convince myself that the decision we made was the right one). Unfortunately, dogs often do not communicate when they feel discomfort, and try to hide it.

The vet was not wrong in his diagnosis. When Shiva collapsed, it was due to the tumor starting to bleed into the abdomen. She would have lasted only another few hours, and those hours would have been very painful. There was nothing that could have done anymore. I hope this helps you, and I wish you the strength to carry you through this time of grief.
Sep 24, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you for this page
by: Donna

On the 27th of August I took my mastif, Shiva, who would have been 6 in November, for a walk to the beach with my boxer Syke who is 12. Shiva was a little slower than usual but nothing to set alarm bells ringing.

The day after I took both dogs for a walk to a nearby beck, Shiva was very slow this time. I noticed watching her walk how her shape had changed. She'd lost weight, because the dogs usually ate from each other's bowls, I hadn't realised that she wasn't eating. I tried her with all her favourites but she wouldn't eat, she would only drink water. I thought she must have a tummy bug, I noticed her tummy was bloated. I would take her to the vet on Monday when it opened.

Shiva was very lethargic and depressed that evening. When I woke on Sunday she had vomited twice. Monday morning I took her on the bus to the vet. We got off the bus and walked a few steps before Shiva collapsed. I rang the vet and told them I couldn't get her in to the surgery. They brought a stretcher out to carry her the last few meters. The vet took her temperature and her pulse, and told me Shiva was in shock. Although her body was not presenting the symptoms, he felt her abdomen and told me there and then without any scans or surgery that she had a massive liver tumour and there was nothing he could do but to put her to sleep.

As with other posts on here, it was too sudden - I thought I was taking her home. Shiva was wagging her tail as the nurse shaved her leg. Shiva put her head into my chest as the needle went in. I was sobbing, telling her I was sorry and that I loved her. I cuddled her till the end.

I was torturing myself with thoughts of what if the vet was wrong - how could he have been sure without tests, why hadn't I demanded more?

Finding this page has helped me find closure in knowing that the vet was obviously just good at his job and saved me all the expense of tests to prove what he had already told me.

I only had four days in total of suspecting Shiva was coming down with something, and 10 minutes to prepare for her death. Liver cancer is a very cruel cancer, one that can leave you shocked and numb, when there are no signs, nothing to indicate that your much loved pet is terminally ill.

Thank you to everybody who has posted on here - I find it very healing. Although our grief is unique and personal to us as individuals, I believe that the empathy, kind words, thoughts and wishes expressed throughout your posts help us as individuals to feel a little less alone in our grieving.

Strength, peace and light to all who have suffered or who are currently suffering from the shock, trauma, guilt and heartbreaking devastation that liver cancer in our beloved companions leaves in its wake...

Good night, God bless Shiva.

Always loved, never forgotten.

Mum, Nathan, Tom, Sasha, Stevie and Syke xxxx
Sep 04, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Stella and Pearl's mom
by: Rosie's Mom

I just wanted to say thank you for your kind words. You are right in that I should be thinking of the joy and happy memories that Rosie gave us. It's only been a week since we lost her and the pain is still so raw. I just wish we'd known early on what was wrong so maybe we could have helped her - it's so sad this disease is usually detected when it's too late.

I do hope your vet gives Pearl all the checks she needs so she can have a long and happy life! And my heart and sympathies go to you for the loss of Stella.
Sep 04, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Young Dog with Cancer
by: Stella and Pearls mom

As I have gotten braver and read more and more of these heartbreaking and far too familiar stories, I have noticed that Stella was very young to have this happen. She only turned 4 on July 22. Most of the babies have passed at 10, 12, 14 years.
Just seemed that Stella was the youngest I have heard of. Again this concerns me for my Pearl.
Thanks so much for the encouragement about early detection. I plan to have Pearl's liver enzymes checked several times yearly. If my vet doesn't want to do it, there are plenty who will.

Again I seek your help, any information on diet to prevent this. Our dogs eat a food high in protein, and low in grain. With Pearl's increased risk should we give her something specific.

Thank you so much for your help. It is great to have people who understand but my heart breaks for each one of you that have been through this theft of your babies. This is how we feel, like Stella was stolen from us and she was.

I am with gratitude for your concern, thoughts, and hopefully prayers.

Thanks again,
Stella and Pearl's mom
Sep 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		to Stella and Pearl's mom
by: Regina

First of all I want to say that I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to all of you that have suffered with the loss of your precious pets.

I am also a RN, and I had a dog with liver cancer earlier this year. You can read my story from February with Petey. Petey got sick really quickly. I had recently switched to a grain free food, so I believe that he had a gastritis and when he was having tests run, I think that finding the liver cancer was a fluke.

To make a long story short, Petey had surgery, the mass was removed, and now he has gained weight and has a beautiful coat. We went to the vet last week and he has a clean bill of health. He has even started to counter surf again. (Now I know he feels good).

One thing the vet told me is that routine abdominal ultrasounds would be needed for early detection, every 3-6 months depending on how the liver enzymes values. The liver enzymes can change so quickly, the dogs can act normal to us when in fact their enzymes are out of normal range. So having them checked routinely is key.

The cause of the cancer is unclear but, he is a Brittany and this is not a common disease for Brittany's. One other note, he had been on a low dose of Rimadyl for over a year for arthritic pain. I'm not sure how fast the tumors grow but Petey's was the size of a lime without metastasis. He had normal liver enzymes 6 months prior with his routine visit and when he was sick they were so high the machine couldn't read them.
I'm not sure what the answer is, but some things to think about.
Sep 03, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		searching to prevent another loss to liver cancer
by: stella and peals mom

We lost our English bulldog Stella on Aug 26, 2010 to liver cancer. I am still in shock at how quickly she declined. But being a registered nurse, I forget that a dog can't tell you when they are feeling ill.

Her symptoms started about three weeks ago and then the vet performed an exploratory sx to determine what the problem was. The cancer had spread to a uncontrollable level. Even the vet was shocked.

Pearl is Stella's daughter. She is two years old. This week we took her to the vet for her check up and discussed preventing this in Pearl. Her chances increase due to Stella's cancer.

Our vet gave us no hope for preventions. It seems English bulldogs have a high risk for liver cancer. We asked about blood tests to monitor her liver, foods, or anything we could do to prevent or diagnose quick if, god forbid, this happens to Pearl. Now she is a very healthy active bulldog, but so was her mother until the smyptoms began.

The pain of losing Stella has been almost unable to tolerate. Reliving this with Pearl is somthing I want to do everything I can to prevent.

Does anyone have information on prevention or early detection?

And for the person who feels guilty for having their pet put down due to this disease, I understand completely. My guilt is because I didn't detect her symptoms earlier. No matter, she is gone, my heart is in pieces, and we will never stop missing her. Try to put your thoughts in how much you loved your pet, how much they loved you and that you were blessed to have your life touched by them, no matter the pain you have now.

My heart goes out to you!
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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.
Jul 29, 2010
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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
Rating
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.
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 : )
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 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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