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Missing my Dog Spanky

by Spanky's Parent

Spanky's last days

Spanky's last days

I just put my Cocker Spaniel down after 9.5 years of a great companion.

My dog had mild seizures several years ago only twice. I did not think anymore about it and the vet said not to worry if they don't come back.

Several years later my dog began shaking a lot. The vet said my dog was having mini seizures. As time passed my dog began to rub his head into the bed, furniture, chairs any object and I thought it was just scratching his head.

After some time had passed, my dog began to run into walls and just stand there lost. After several visits to the vet and believing it was an old age thing, my dog started stumbling, pacing, panting, falling in the pool, trying to walk through items instead of around, fell in his dog bowl and could not get up.

I rushed him to the vet and was told he had a brain tumor. I could have had lots of tests done to find out what the status and growth of it was.

After taking the dog home and watching him slowly lose his mobility, I decided it was not fair to watch him suffer any longer. I wanted him to have his dignity. Unfortunately I had to put my best friend to sleep a couple days ago. I have visited this web site several times thinking there must have been more I could do.

I have been reassured from several people and my vet that it was the best thing as he was suffering.

I miss him so much and hope anyone reading this can learn from the symptoms. We all know our dogs and know when they are not acting the same.

I love you Spanky... Rest well.

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Missing my Dog Spanky

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Sep 02, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Missing my Buddy boy
by: Carol

Buddy was only 4.5 years old. He started having seizures one year ago. We were told it was probably epilepsy and he was put on medication.

During the year he still had some seizures and his medication was increased. He was having side effects from the medication - difficulty getting up, weight gain and lethargy.

In May he had 2 really bad seizures just days apart. At that time we decided if he were to have any more we would not let him suffer.

Last Friday night he had his worst seizure ever. After each seizure a part of Buddy was lost.

Saturday morning he went to doggy heaven. I miss him so much, but I know he is not suffering any more. I had a dream last night that he was with my grandmother (who passed away years ago) and my previous dog Max. They were all happy.

Run free my friend, run free.
Aug 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you
by: Anonymous

Thank you for posting this, and explaining symptoms of a brain tumor. It is helping my decision today to say goodbye to my beloved dog and friend of 10+ years. I am grateful for your help.
Aug 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Spanky
by: Anonymous

I feel your loss whole heartedly. He was extremely blessed to have you in his life.

My Amer.Eskie of 17yr is suffering from the same symptoms for some time, and got worse for the past few weeks...her left eye is half shut this morning. I fear her time to go to the Rainbow Bridge is near. Meanwhile, we are keeping her as comfortable as we possibly could.

God bless our bestest friends, and bless all of you.

Gigi
Aug 27, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Spanky
by: Gwen

I'm so sorry for your loss today. Spanky was lucky to have you to love him for 9.5 years. RIP Spanky.
Aug 26, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Mastiff mix, Charlie, has suddenly started acting strange
by: Gwen

I have a Mastiff mix named Charlie. He is 8 1/2 years old. I rescued him from the dog shelter 4 years ago. He is the love of my life. I have severe back trouble and had to quit work two years ago. Charlie has been by my side the entire time. He's my constant companion.

About three weeks ago, he started acting strangely. He would yelp out for no apparent reason and then start pacing the floors and panting constantly. I took him to the vet every few days and no "pill" they gave him helped. They did no blood work, no urine tests, nothing. Just assumed from my description of him yelping that he must be in some kind of pain.

After 3 visits and yet another "pill", I decided to take him to another vet. She was wonderful! She did a full exam, all of the lab tests she could think of, and found nothing wrong. While we were there, Charlie did his yelp and then bolted from the exam room (the door was ajar slightly and he just pushed his way out). He was running hysterically around the office.

The vet said his yelp was not from pain but rather from fear. She shook her head and said it did not look good. In her many years of practice she had seen similar behavior before. She thinks he has a brain tumor. Over the past week he has progressed to self isolation. His "safe place" is on my bed in the back of the house. (He used to be by my side constantly, even following me to the bathroom! I miss that...) He now gets confused when he's let outside and constantly runs to my car like he thinks he's going bye-bye; when he comes out of the bedroom to get a drink of water (only a couple times a day) he often can't find his way back to the bedroom and becomes fearful and starts running in every room yelping.

I'm so sad for him (and me). He's still eating, although he now won't eat his dry dog food anymore (which he's eaten every day of his life) - he eats only canned.

I know the end is coming and it's coming way too fast. Thank you to everyone that has posted on this site. It has encouraged me that I'm not alone.

I wish you all hadn't had to go through the pain of losing your pets, your friends. God bless you all.
Aug 17, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pippa
by: Gillian

We have a 11 and half year old cross who, up till 2 days ago was a picture of health.

However we went to bed Sunday only to be woken at 12.30 by a strange sound. We turned on the bedroom light only to find Pippa having a seizure, it was horrendous.

I phoned the vet who told us to see how she went on through the night, but she had another one at 5.30. I took her to the vet first thing Monday morning and the vet said the prognosis isn't good because a dog of her age just don't start without an underlyin problem, i.e. live or kidney failure os a brain tumour. She then had another seizure so they kept her for tests. They came back negative for the liver and kidney problem but she does have an infection, but the vet said she still thinks it is a brain tumour so we have to take every day as it comes now.

However she is fitting nearly every 2 hours now and can hardly walk and keep herself upright so she is going back to the vet tomorrow and we will have to discuss what our options are.

She is a wonderful dog who is loved so much, but there comes a time when you have to think about your pet and think enough is enough, it's not fair to suffer. She has had a good life and I take comfort in that.
Aug 14, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Time to say goodbye...
by: Anonymous

RIP Comet...it really sounds like you did the best for your best friend. I have not gone through having to put a dog down yet, but my day is coming...and I absolutely dread it. I think it's harder to put an animal down and cope with emptiness than it is to see a human pass away...maybe it the unconditional love...I don't know but it's going to be very very hard on me.

I love what you and your girlfriend did to make his last evening on earth as comfortable as possible for him.
Aug 14, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Time to say goodbye?
by: Anonymous

..Unfortunately, Comet my little 14 year old Bull terrier was put down this morning. After writing here last week, his health spiralled downward. The medications caused him to refuse to eat, making him very weak. The spells of being startled and constantly being scared of something had gotten the best of him, there seemed to be no relief for our buddy.

My girlfriend and I decided to put him down if his quality of life was to continue to decline, it was and quick. We had the vet take several X-rays of his body.. the edema was worsening, his lungs were 2/3 congested last week, and today after taking meds for that week.. fully congested.

His head contained a small "something" within the left ear, not a tumour though. So that was somewhat of a relief! Dementia is the prognosis and medication to slow the onset and somewhat relieve symptoms, then the issue with pulmonary edema. That needed to be addressed as well. There were a few tumours in his abdomen causing the edema, they needed to be removed or looked into further. Cataracts, torn ACL, Vestibular disease, recent deafness and just old age... he was 87 (14) in his years.

It was just too much for our little Commie. We said our goodbyes last night, my girlfriend gave him a bath (he loved baths) and cleaned him up for his big day in the morning. He finally ate a meal of Chinese food and fortune cookies and ice cream too! Slept the best he had in days, he seemed real relaxed and peaceful.

Best wishes to all who have shared you stories here... Spanky has a new playfriend - Commie!
Aug 12, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Shih-Tzu symptoms
by: Doug

We have a 13 year, 8 month old named Mops. At 26 pounds, not your typical Shih-Tzu.

Four days ago he had his first seizure. It started with him yelping in pain. Then he struggled to his feet and stumbled around in a somewhat circular pattern. His head was tilted downward and to one side. His back was arched and his torso turned, hence the circular walking pattern.

He has had 6 more seizures since the first one. The vet did not at first think it was a brain tumor. Now he does. Mops was given Gabapentin to help quell the seizures. It worked for less than 24 hours before another episode occurred.

As of this writing, we are monitoring him. Most likely we will soon have to say goodbye to our wonderful companion.

What joy they bring into our lives! Truly, they are gifts from God.
Aug 12, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Brain tumor symptoms
by: Lana

Thank you for your story! It has helped me understand what is happening to my sweet golden retriever, Sammy.

He has a growth on his head and, due to his age, 12, the vet said it was best to leave it alone and just let him have quality of life not quantity. I agreed.

His tumor has grown to about 3 times its size in just a few months, maybe almost a year. I knew he didn't have long so we have just made him comfortable and loved him the best we could. But recently he is showing signs just like your dog did. He has not had seizures, thank God! He has recently started to just walk around the house and just stare at the walls and what not. We found him behind the bathroom door looking at the wall today. So sad for us.

My whole family has cried all evening knowing what we have to do. He wimpers sometimes and runs into walls on occasion but the constant pacing is telling me that he is really no longer with us and he doesn't even seem to recognize us.

I feel ashamed to have let it get to this point and feel we must make a decision soon to have him put down.

It is a very difficult decision to make because he is my son's dog - they have grown up together and are the same age, 12! They have spent every night together on my son's king sized bed for years and years. But the selfishness has to stop and it is time to put him out of his misery.

Thank you so much for your information; it has helped me to know exactly what we need to do. May your sweet baby rest in peace and may our sweet Sammy get the relief he deserves. God Bless you and your family and thanks again.

Lana
Aug 11, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Time to say goodbye?
by: Anonymous

Sounds like you are really having a hard time with your best bud. I have a dog that had dementia - she does what your dog does as far as panting, however Anipryl seems to keep that minimized. The panting is an issue off and on. Eats like I own a food mill or something, but at some point the quality of life has to play a role. I really dread that day.

Our good days still outweigh the bad, but I can see changes that aren't for the good. She gets startled alot, and my vet too said it's the cateracts. She had an ear infection - that was a real treat - and she's lost her hearing, but we still manage. It takes a lot of my time, but at the end I will be able to lay my head on my pillow and know I did everything I could to help her.

You've got other issues that I haven't experienced with my dog. I wish you the best and we will keep you in our doggy prayers.

You will know when the time is right...
Aug 10, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Time to say goodbye?
by: Anonymous

After reading just about every post here, I still sit confused.

I have a senior Bull terrier rescue that my girlfriend and I decided to take on over 7 years ago. He was so healthy and full of life we simply could not understand why anyone would give him up.

Last year I came home for lunch to find him laying on the floor in his vomit, eyes reeling back and forth and his body shaking. I started to cry because it was such a horrible sight. Called the Vet and brought him in for a check-up, he said that it was Vestibular disease and he will more than likely recover. OK... He did eventually recover, but his head tilt is still evident several months later.

Then the chronic eye infection in his left eye, same side as his head tilt. It was said to be a plugged tear duct. Vet would give antibiotics and send him home, the eye would clear up and everything would seem fine for a week or two after the antibiotics and then it was back. Even after multiple daily saline washes.

Months later his hearing has completely gone now and he is being startled randomly! Eating from his bowl or laying down, he jumps as if he was frightened by something. Vet said may be a behavioural issue coping with his cataracts and hearing loss... Canine dementia?

Then the bouts of being startled became worse, the dog is acting crazy, as if seeing things that just were not there! Same craziness you would find with fireworks... but the house is quiet and sometimes even dark.

A month ago things have just got to the point that something has to be done - now he is panting uncontrollably, even in his sleep. Seeing things, shaking his head like he had something in his ear, refuses to eat and is very restless. He walks for hours around the house, following you, lays beside you briefly and jumps up startled.

Another vet trip left us even more confused. X-rays revealed fluid in his lungs and no real indication as to why, no real symptoms of CHF. The vet mentioned that he possibly has a brain tumour, prescribed diuretics and something to help aspiration (furosemide/theophyline) and deal with his lungs first.

He now seems less startled by whatever was bothering him, possibly a bout or two by the afternoon followed by an hour or so of panting. Still somewhat restless, has no real mobility issues other than old age and a bit of a head tilt. No appetite - bull terriers are voracious eaters - and tends to hide and pant when he is not under foot. His left eye infection is also on it's way back, just as it does after a week without the antibiotics.

There will have to be a solution over the next couple weeks or I have to give up, he has been the most polite old man... I owe him a great deal of respect and will never forget!

Update to follow...
Aug 04, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		saying goodbye
by: Mandy's momma

My shih-tzu poodle mix dog had started to have mini seisures also. She was having accidents in the house and eventually just started to go potty on some puppy pads in the house instead of going outside. She either didn't want to eat anything or acted like she was starving. She became terrified of thunder, fireworks, or any flash of light(including my camera). She was rubbing her eyes/head a lot too. She lost weight (3 pounds in a few months) and wasn't acting like herself, but she was pretty old.

She was just two months shy of her 16th birthday when I had to have her euthanized. It was heartbreaking but I also couldn't bear to see her suffer.

That last night she played with her doggy cousin, went for a walk, ate a plate full of her favorite food, and went to lay down in her usual spot. She got up after a while and her back end tipped over. I went to check on her and tried to stand her up but she couldn't stand. It got worse, she was curling up (like trying to touch her nose on her tail) and couldn't stand at all.

I took her to the emergency clinic. The Vet said he suspected cancer (symptoms neurological). At her age, and with her symptoms, I didn't want to bring her back home just to prolong her suffering. It was a very hard thing to do.

I think we, as owners and close friends, deep down just know when it's time to say goodbye. It's so hard to do and we miss them so much. But it is the most humane way for our beloved pets to pass on. Only time will help heal your broken heart, but try to treasure your good memories of your very special friend.

Take Care and God bless.
Jul 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My Beautiful Dog
by: Anonymous

Do you and your beautiful dog a favor..take your dog to the vet, have them put her on Anipryl or the generic Anipryl for dementia. If it is dementia, you will see a change in your dog in about a week.

Don't buy Anipryl online because the online stuff isn't made in the USA.

The pacing will pretty much stop along with the panting. My dog has been on it for 7 months now...getting along pretty good. If she didn't have cataracts and kidney issues she'd be doing really good.

I also purchased some soft chews that soothes and relaxes my dog...I got it at PetSmart and I can't believe how well they help calm her down. Now my dog climbs in and through everything, so we've had to gate off 1/2 of the house. We've had to fence off the pool as well.

The dementia is heartbreaking, but once you get your dog on a plan, it helps...otherwise you will have to invest money in either mops or paper towels and some good odor spray for your floors, because they just go whenever they have to, wherever they are... it takes patience and love. You will find it will consume a lot of your time.
Jul 29, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		my beautiful dog
by: Anonymous

My little dog has possible brain tumor or dementia,very hard to watch her go through this.
She was a rescued dog so don't know her exact age but around 12 to 13. She circles a lot and paces around, she still enjoys food but I have to guide her to food most times. Vet said in January it was possible brain tumor but they didn't offer treatment for it there. She doesn't appear to be in pain, sometimes the odd whine.

I hope I'm not being selfish keeping her alive but she seems to have some enjoyment in life with food and still recognizes home when she has been out for the day. I can't put her to sleep yet.
Jul 28, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sweet Mollie
by: kicknckn

I completely understand your concern with Mollie.

I have a 13 year old Lhaso Apso that does the same thing...CCD Canine Cognitive Disorder. It's like dementia. I currently have her on 5 mg Anipryl and she's doing a lot better. She still paces, bumps into things, tries to fit her body into any space she thinks she can... I have pillows between every piece of furniture I have.

It's very sad sometimes - it is like she has no idea where she is. But then I hold her and woo her back and she's good. Until she shows signs of pain or can't hold her bowels, or her quality of life is diminished, I will not put her down. Feel free to email me at kicknckn[at]yahoo.com (replace [at] with @).
Jul 27, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sweet Mollie
by: Anonymous

On July 5th, Mollie, my 10 year old Shih Tzu, started losing control of her hind legs. Within hours she started drooling, and could not stand. She was admitted to our local vet hospital.

After all blood work, x-rays, CT scans came back negative, Mollie was discharged with an unknown diagnosis. Possible Coonhound Paralysis although she had no known contact with a racoon.

Mollie started to show signs of recovery within a week of being home, but 1 week later is now walking "drunk" again, and not drinking water (does eat wet food from my palm). She is still relieving herself outside, but I'm noticing she bumps into things she would normally know were there, and she circles a few times while walking. She never wimpers and barks are far and few between.

I am so sick reading these comments thinking she may have a brain tumor. Not sure if I should have the MRI done? Just to find out yes she does have a tumor, then what? I'm selfishly just wanting to know that the glimpse of my sweet girl I see every once in a while is enough to keep her going. or am I allowing her to suffer for my own good?
Jul 26, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Coming to grips
by: Anonymous

I wrote a few weeks back about my mastiff, Izabel. Sadly, we have learned that she has a brain tumor. She is only 3. We have her on prednisone and are enjoying the time we have left with her as much as possible. She still likes a short morning walk and will even bring me toys when I take her outside. She prefers to be lying down and continues to have an unsteady gait, but it doesn't seem to be getting worse.

As long as she is happy and enjoying her life, she will remain our companion. I know, though, that when the time comes that I can't say that, I will do the right thing for her.
Jul 14, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		We feel your pain
by: Debbie - Baltimore

I went to this site because my sister-in-law's dog, Duncan, was just diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor about 30 minutes ago.

He has been experiencing the same symptoms (without the seizures) for a few weeks now. She has spent a fortune trying to find out what was wrong with Duncan, but the money didn't matter to her. She just wanted to find out if there was something that could be done.

As I sit here crying about Duncan and your sweet dog, my sister-in-law is trying to come to grips that she has no other choice. I've been through this with our dog Precious with breast cancer.

Believe me when I say, I really feel your pain. God bless Duncan and Lisa and everyone that suffers having to make this decision, even though they know it's the best thing for their best friend.
Jul 11, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trying to prepare for the worst
by: Anonymous{PJ}

We finally had to put our 5 yr old golden retriever, Rebel, down last Mon. REALLY miss him bad but knowing someday we'll be reunited gives me some peace of mind.
Jul 11, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hoping for the best
by: Anonymous

I have a three-year old English mastiff named Izabel. Last weekend she went from being fine one minute to having trouble walking the next. She has an unsteady gait and gets nervous about walking around things in our house. She is doing more head-shaking than usual and does have a lot of waxy substance in her right ear.

We had been up to the cabin the week before and had to give her several baths in the lake after she kept finding dead fish to roll in. Lots of opportunities for water in the ears. I pointed that out to our vet the other day, but he said there wasn't any bulging going on in her eardrum, so he didn't suspect a middle ear infection. He said they are rare. I have spent $1000 already and have no answers.

I have an appt. tomorrow with a neurology vet. She does seem a bit better. She is still eating and drinking, no seizures, even brought me a couple of toys yesterday while I was sitting outside with her. It is odd.

I am praying for a middle ear infection. We had to put our Eng. bulldog down two years ago, and it was gut-wrenching. I pray that we won't be making that decision again soon.
Jul 01, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Seeking Advice
by: Anonymous

No, I don't think rubbing his head on the furniture is an indication of pain. I truly believe if an animal is in pain, they will let you know by either whining or howling. This is just my opinion tho...your vet should be able to tell you if he's in pain.
Jul 01, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My 17 yr old Am Eskie
by: Anonymous

See you vet, my dog also has dementia, same symptoms 5 months ago. Put her on Anipryl and she's 90% better today. I know it's not a permanent fix, but it sure helps her alot.
Jul 01, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		to all!
by: Anonymous{PJ}

My heart aches for all our loving,trusting friends who can't speak for themselves! & for their owners! I felt so alone in this but know now I'm not.
Jul 01, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My 17yr old Amer.Eskie
by: Anonymous

First, my condolences to all of you who lost their best friend/companion/baby.

My 17yr old Eskie was rescued from a pet store that my husband insisted of getting for me due to me being dx with a uncurable debilitating illness. He was afraid I might get lonely after years of working full time.

Anyhow, I fell into with Gigi the first time I saw and wanted to protect her regardless of my own health issues.

She is the most intelligent, best behaving pooch I've ever known.

Since 2 yrs ago, she started showing signs of aging, after my other dog died suddenly. She watched him grew up literally.She was diagnosed as having demantia this year.

She started deteriorating rapidly this year. She often stands in one spot as if she's not sure where she is, she lost control of her bowel movements, stumbles and falls all the time. Since this week, I noticed that her head tends to tilt to the left and loses her balance and trips on herself on the left side too. My gut feeling tells me that she has some kind of brain tumor and her time is limited.

Just thought I'd share.
Jul 01, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Seeking Advice
by: eleni

Why do these things always happen to the best animals? I have a boxer, he will be 9 this year. He has had 5 mast cell tumors in the 8 years I've had him. At X-mas he was diagnosed with underactive thyroid, and has also just been diagnosed with Cushing's diseas. He had a seizure on Sunday and I took him to the vets. He thinks my dog has a brain tumor, as his right side of his face is drooping. He also wobbles a little when he walks, and keeps rubbing his head on furniture. I have decided against putting him through the testing and possible treatment that's available, as he has been through so much already. If I was in my 60's and fell ill with this, I wouldn't want treatment as I believe we get these things for a reason. However, I'm worried that I'm letting him suffer now. Does his rubbing his head indicate that he's in pain? If anyone has any advice please post a comment.
Jun 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trying to prepare for the worst
by: Anonymous{PJ}

That sounds so encouraging! Dr. did prescribe Cerenia {used for motion sickness} but he only took one pill then he was hospitalized for 3 days so they could observe his behavior. So now he's just on prozac & his thyroid meds but I'll ask him about vertigo. I know what that feels like since I suffered with it a few times!! Thank you so much for responding...it gives me hope!
Jun 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trying to Prepare for the Worst
by: Anonymous

I had a golden retriever that was terrified of storms...had similar symptoms as your dog. The vet treated her for vertigo and it took about 4 weeks for her to settle down. Meds and a lot of rest did the trick for us, but it took a little of a month and she finally came back around.
Jun 30, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trying to prepare for the worst
by: Anonymous

We had to board our 5 yr old Golden retriever for a few days to leave state for wedding. He was normal the day we left him... played frisbee, etc... but definitely not himself when we returned.

Our part of the city had a tornado touchdown about a mile or two from where we had him kenneled but the area he was in just got really bad hail & I understand all the dogs with him were upset.

He walks in circles with his head down, pants & becomes very confused at times & pushes his head into corners/walls & tries to crawl into areas he's too big for (like end tables,under our bed.)
He has some appetite but acts like it hurts to open his mouth.

Blood work & x-rays show everything normal so the vet thought we should treat him for OCD with prozac but might take 2-4 wks for results... maybe.(He's only been on it 3 days.)

We've put in over $1000 in vet bills this past week & MRI will cost another $1200 if we go that route after seeing what prozac does. He doesn't whine or act like he's in pain - He wags his tail when we talk with him. It hurts so bad to see him like this!!
Jun 28, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Feeling Your Pain
by: Sara

Today I had to do the same thing for my dog, Sammie. It was hard but it made me feel better to know the symptoms were the same.
Jun 22, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Confused
by: Anonymous

Saturday morning my 6 yr old dog started having seizures so I rushed him to the vet ER. They just said it was an isolated incident and sent him home. He had another later that night and continued having them throughout the day on Sunday so again he was taken to ER. They put him on phenobarbitol. Now he can't be left alone without going absolutely crazy. This is a dog that used to sleep all the time and was very used to being left alone. On Monday (our first day when everyone had to go to work) he tried to knock the AC out of our bedroom window to get out. I am so afraid that he is going to hurt himself or our other pets, any advice?
Jun 20, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Ginger my Boxer
by:

On June 14th at 1:30 in the morning I had to put my 9 year old Boxer Ginger down. She started having seizures on Saturday night. We rushed her to Animerge and the vet there said it probably was a brain tumor. They put her on Phenobarbital and she had 2 more seizures. I had to put her down.

I have lost 4 dogs in the last 9 years. This was the worst. In the past I always had another dog at home. I am having a really hard time with this. I am still wondering if I had done the MRI, maybe it was something else that could be treated. I live alone and find it very lonely without her. I miss her so much. I would hate to see her in pain.

All the symptoms started 3 weeks ago and she had every one associated with a tumor except seizures until that night. I do look at it that hopefully she was not in pain very long. She did have a good life but it hurts so much. I will miss her dearly.
Jun 18, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Simular Situation
by: Anonymous

Get the shots...know in your heart you did all you could before you make a life changing decision. That's just my opinion.
Jun 18, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Similar Situation
by: Ashley

Our sweet cocker spaniel Maggie is 15 years old. She's had perfect health until this past December when she had a really bad ear infection and then another one in February. In mid-May she started having similar symptoms as before, only worse. She circles to her right, falls to her right, walks the wall to her right and sometimes has trouble getting off the floor to stand. She has her normal large appetite. The vet put her on Prednisone which we are keeping her on (5mg 2x). We were originally told it could be idiopathic vestibular disease and to give it a few weeks or that it could be a brain tumor. I took her to another vet last week for a second opinion and she said the same thing or that it could be a inner ear infection and the outer ear was cleared up from the prednisone so she was given a 14day antibiotic shot to see if she impoved any. It's been 6 days since and sometimes I think there is improvement (she'll walk around in the middle of the room with no problem, etc) and then sometimes I think there isn't any. We were told if we thought there was improvement that she needed to get another shot at the 14day mark but I don't know what to do. It's so hard when they get sick and you just don't know what to do. I just wish she could tell me how she feels.
Jun 18, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		We wait, we cry, we snuggle
by: Anonymous

What were the results of your tests?
Jun 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Bud Babes
by: Anonymous

Has your vet ruled out CCD...it's dementia for dogs. My dog had alot of the same symptoms everyone on this page is talking about and we put her on Anipryl and she's doing great. It's not a forever fix, but she's doing tremendously better.

I know it's hard to put your best friend down. None of us want to see them suffer. I would ask your vet about CCD (Canine Cognitive Disfunction) just to make sure. My Lhaso Apso has been on it now for about 7 months.

My heart goes out to you and we'll keep you in our doggy prayers.
Jun 17, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Bud Babes
by: Anonymous

After seeing two doctors and reading the comments below, I know that my beloved Buddy has a tumor. And we will have to put him down soon. I dread that day. But it's coming soon.

We saw our regular vet on 5/18/10 and he thought at that time this was the case but he could not be certain with out testing because all of his blood work came back normal. The only way for us to be certain was for us have a CT scan. At the cost of 2k to 3k we could not afford this. Our human son starts college in the fall.

After a few weeks on prednisone and a steroid we saw no improvement, actually we saw his balance become worse. So yesterday we saw another doctor. She confirmed what our regular vet stated. And based on the records and what we told her, he is deteriorating. Maybe another month or so. It breaks my heart that my little mutt hitting walls because his balance is off or he jump the way he once could. Now when he greets me at the door he can only wag his tail profusely. He has always followed me around the house like my shadow. He still tries to do that, but quickly will just fall down because he can't stand, or bumps into a wall. I try to get him to stay but sometimes he doesn't listen. He is now hesitant to go through his doggy door. This is proably because he can't see that it is opened. His peripheral sight is fading.

I don't know what to do. Put him down now or wait until he gets worse. But I hesitate because what if I am wrong and he is not as sick as we think. I don't know what to do.
Jun 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		We wait, we cry, we snuggle
by: Kim

I am waiting for biopsy reports as I am reading this. I have an 11 yr old Boston Terrier female named Lucky. Me and my family have been the lucky ones. She is a joy!! She has a twin brother named Spooky, he is quite upset and won't leave her side.

Our story mirrors everything I've read...its just a matter of time, probably tomorrow when I get the results of a the biopsy (brain tumor, already progressed.)

We adopted them sight unseen 4 yrs ago as rescues and have had the most wonderful experiences with them. My heart is breaking. My family's hearts are breaking. I have always had a houseful of beloved pets...they are family.

Please keep us in mind today and tomorrow. I will update.

Thank you...Kim
Jun 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sebastian
by: Anonymous

I understand completely what you are going through. My one and a half year old hound mix recently went through the same thing.

On April 27th he was aggressive toward me and had a seizure. I rushed him to the ER vets, and they told me it was an allergic reaction to something. I then took him to the regular vet, and he concurred with ER vet.

He got better after a couple days. He had several more episodes, each getting worse, followed by more visits to the regular vet, along with another visit to the ER vet. The ER vet told me now that he had epilepsy, and gave him Phenobarbitol. He got better again, then got even worse. I took him to another vet for a second opinion. She said not to worry, to make it through the holiday weekend and she would call the Neurologist.

Well needless to say, my baby Sebastian passed away in his sleep on May 29th. No one could tell me what was wrong with him. He was having seizures, excessive drooling, stumbling, lost sight (pupils enlarged & not retracting), relied on me to guide him to go outside. Between April 27th and May 29th, he went from 89 lbs down to 76 lbs. Also he lost most of the muscle on his head and face. He was still eating and drinking though. All of his blood work showed that he was 100% healthy. The vet did a necropsy on him and said that his organs were in perfect condition. But he suspected that he either had a brain tumor or an infection of the brain.

It is a terrible thing to lose your beloved pet, without any answers. I felt so helpless because I couldn't do more for him.
Jun 07, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Boxer-Ginger
by: Yvonne

My 10 year old boxer Ginger is showing signs of a brain tumor. I noticed at first she was following me around, being right under my feet, almost tripping over her. Then one day her left side started going limp. I brought her to the vet which they think could be Fibrocartilage-embolism. They took ex-rays and did blood tests which came back normal. Now I do notice her shaking head and hitting her head into walls and door ways. She does have a little trouble going up and down the stairs. She pulls to the one side when going up or down. I did notice the panting but thought it could be the prednisone she was prescribed. She is almost off that. I hate seeing her like this. Very heartbreaking to see her not being her normal happy self. The vet said it could be a brain tumor but would not know without a MRI. I do not have the money for that and spent thousands on my other boxer which had cancer. She is such a sweet dog and can't seem to imagine my life without her. I have lost 2 dogs in the last 5 years - one was a boxer with cancer at 5 years old. Ginger is all I have right now. I live alone and she gives me such joy to see her when I come home. I love her dearly but if it is a brain tumor I will not let her suffer at all. She never has had a seizure so trying to keep the faith that it could be something else. Please say some prayers for my Ginger.
Jun 04, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Valen the Pom
by: Alison

I really feel your pain!! I am sitting here watching my dog Valen, with similar symptoms. He is only six years old and has always been so hyperactive. I haven't heard him bark in a week (which he always does).

It is so heart breaking to watch him stumble around and not know who I am and can't recognize where my voice is coming from.

We originally thought he had dislocated his hind legs but his symptoms just got worse over the last week (unsteady, running into things, shaking and whimpering). I took him to the vet this afternoon and although they can't confirm a diagnosis, the vet said it looks like a brain tumor. He was given steroids today but has until Monday (2 days time) to show some improvement.

I dread what Monday will bring and how my 2 other dogs will cope.

All we want is to keep our pets safe and healthy, and to be totally helpless is killing me. My heart goes out to anyone dealing with a similar situation, but I do know that our pets know we love them and that's the best we can offer.

Please pray for my best mate Valen!
Jun 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Chloe, the boxer
by: Carin

My boxer girl, Chloe, was only 5 years old this year and we had to say "goodbye" to her this morning.

She had been dx with epilepsy last Nov. but now I wonder if it was a brain tumor. The last two weeks she went downhill fast, first being in a lot of pain, not wanting to walk or be active at all, when normally very playful. Finally this last weekend, she began stumbling, falling over, no control of her balance at all, circling, walking into objects that had been there forever. This morning she was crying out in what I thought was pain. Vet said they thought it could be a tumor but would have to do a spinal tap, very risky, to know for sure. Already blind in both eyes by the time we got to vet. Either way, she would probably not get better. I did not want her to be in pain or suffer, so I said goodbye to my girl---bless you all and your much loved furbabies.
May 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My sweet Ginny
by: Ginny"s mom

I'm so very sorry for your loss.

My 8 yr old female German Shepherd had a few seizures a month or so ago and tonight since I've been home from work she had 6 of them in 3 1/2 hours. I'm going to be by her side until I get her to the vets in the morning, I'll be there when they open.

Hopefully it won't be too late but she deserves the best care and love I can give her. I know in my heart that she'll let me know when it's her time. It's a hard decision to make but then I can't watch her suffer or lose her dignity. My heart goes out ot you.

God bless.
Rest in peace Spanky and run like the wind.
May 29, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Helpful to read encouraging words
by: Glendale

I pray for all of you losing and suffering with your pets.

Today we put down our 17 year old German Shepherd/Collie mix. It was a hard decision as all of you know. After reflection I think we all know when it is no longer fair to keep hoping things will get better when they only get worse. No one will ever replace Spanky or any of our beloved pets, but we can continue to share our love and care for those in need.

Remember the good times and let yourself cry for your loss.
May 26, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Becky - so sorry
by: Anonymous

My heart goes out to you. Becky...at the end of the day, you have to know you've done everything you can for you "daughter"...or you will forever and I mean forever be haunted wondering if there was something else.

I understand the tears, I am crying with you. It is very very hard to see our pets that show us unconditional love sick.

Do you have a hospice group for animals in your area?

Talk to you vet...they know the best. If she's in pain, you don't want that. If she's not, give her all the love you can.

Let us know how things go for you.
May 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sorry
by: Becky

I am now going through this with my 8 yr. old American Bulldog. I have taken her to two different vets, spent hundreds of dollars on blood work, x-rays of the heart and chest, ECG's and multiple other tests, and all they have told me is "she is fine, we don't see anything wrong."

Then I was told by a friend it may be a brain tumor, so I got on-line and found your page and after reading the symptoms I think this is what is going on with "my baby", the first seizure was 2 weeks ago today, I had to give her cpr because I almost lost her, then last Tuesday she had 3 more, the second being the worst, she lost control of her bladder then.

I came in from work this morning and she was so happy to see me, I got her her breakfast, went in the other room for a minute, came out and she was sitting in the chair with her eyes all bugged out and her hair standing, so I got her up on the sofa and sat with her comforting her, where I still am right now and as I sit here I've noticed she didn't eat all of her food, and she loves to eat . . .

I'm not sure what to do, what my next step should be, I have a 10 year old daughter, my only child, that calls my dog "her sister". Oh what can I do? I don't want to be selfish and keep her here for us, but I "need" her, she is my best friend . . . I must go for now, it's hard to see through the tears. Please anyone reading this pray for my dog.
May 24, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		any news
by: sarah

Read your blog Cathy - how is your lab? My lab Gemma had what has been diagnosed as another major stroke yesterday evening with what appears to be mild seizure - vet can't do anything so we wait with baited breath for her to get up again - she can't eat, drink or stand up unaided for more than two minutes, breaks your heart....
May 24, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		My heart breaks for you
by: Cathy

I came to this web site because our wonderful black lab, Faith, has an appointment today with her vet. I'm so scared that she has a brain tumor. She has some of the signs but no seizures. She is 10 years old and so loved. Whoever reads this, please pray for her. I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful Spanky. I can only imagine how painful. God bless!
May 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Any other signs
by: sarah

Just googling what is wrong with my own 8 yr old lab and waiting for vets call...all signs pointing to a brain tumour except no seizures and we are waiting with fingers crossed hoping it will be her ears...She had a benign tumour several yrs ago and all has been ok since then.

My heart goes out to you all.
May 20, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sossie
by: Anonymous

My deepest sympathies to you Tony. It was probably the worst day of your life.

13 years of wonderful companionship and always a sparkle in her eye you will never forget.

You did the right thing, and I can imagine how heavy you heart is. You and Sossie were sharing a wonderful moment basting in the sun.

We never want to see our companions in pain. But we never want them to leave us either. We just need to love them all we can while we have them, which sounds like you did consistently.

Sossie will always be with you in spirit... give yourself time to grieve and lay out in the grass in the sun and when you feel that breeze come over you...think of Sossie..she'll be right there with you.
May 20, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Best Bud
by: Anonymous

Eric:
My deepest sympathies to you. You had a very tough decision, but I think you made the right choice for your best friend. There is an emptiness within that will be hard to be filled. It's ok to cry and give yourself time to grieve. His spirit will remain with you forever and memories that you can cherish. The unconditional love that our pets give us lasts a life time. They touch us in so many ways it's unimaginable. Some of our best companions have 4 legs.

Lois M
May 19, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sossie, died today..
by: tony.b

Sossie was a german shepherd / doberman cross. She lived to be almost 13 yrs old. She was never sick a day in her life. Always had a sparkle in her eyes.

About 6 months ago, her back legs started to give her a little trouble, but that didn't slow her down. She was always eager to play and go for a walk. Sossie always had that puppy personality.

Yesterday evening while lying in the grass, enjoying the sun, Sossie had a seizure, caused by a brain tumor, and she didn't come out of it. Her head had a steady shake, her eyes were twitching back and forth. I could tell at times she had lost her vision, temporarily, and she could not stand without falling over. This blew my mind.

I let her sleep through the night, hoping it would go away, it didn't. I always said I would never let her suffer. The next day, Wednesday, May 19 at 11:45 am, the vet gave Sossie a needle and she very quietly went to sleep.

It was the hardest thing I ever did, but the vet said it was the right thing, and I know that. I always said, I would never let her suffer.
May 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Best Bud
by: Eric

Just this morning at 5:30 am, I had the unfortunate task of deciding to have my 14 yr old corgi-Doolie put to rest after having several grand mal seizures since 7 pm yesterday.

I know by what I've read in this website that I did the humane thing. I know he would never be the same, especially since his change in attitude towards me the past 18 months. He became increasingly aggresive to the point of biting me whenever I tried to pick him up or doing anything such as bathing, brushing or using the dremel tool on his claws. I had to muzzle him for any of those events. I noticed he lost weight in his hind end and how slowly he walked around the house. He did run quickly on his daily walks and didn't require a leash at all.

The vet at the hospital said she had seen this many times before and more than likely had a brain tumor. His quality of life would have been diminished. I had to make the logical decision and put my emotions aside for him not to suffer.
I loved that dog like a parent loves their kids.
I'm crying as I write this, but sharing this seems to help.

This is my second round with this since I had to do this with my golden retriever in 2003 that had to be put down due to the effects from Rimadyl. I feel for all the people who have lost their best friends to this. Thanks to all.
May 04, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Hearing your pain...feeling it too
by: Missin my Sammy

Just 20 hrs ago I stood with my 12 yr old Lab and stroked his head while he took his last breath. The vet confirmed that Samson had a brain tumor. It had never been diagnosed, we never had any indication of a problem, and before 12:20am on May 4th, he had never shown any symptom other than the occasional "senior dog" shaking (and I was informed that this is normal for older dogs).

I miss my Sammy more than I ever thought I could. However, I know in my heart that more tests and drugs and more painful nights were unfair to my pup.

Thank you for sharing your story -- while I knew I made the right and humane choice, it is nice to hear that I'm not alone.

I'm very sorry for your loss and hope that Spanky and Sam may enjoy the extra heavenly play time before we join them.
Apr 28, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		You will know when the time is right
by: Anonymous

When is the right time? Unfortunately, my answer to your question is simply, you will know. I have cared for our Maggie night and day since she was diagnosed with a brain tumor back in October. She not only had the brain tumor, but diabetes and she was blind. The phenobarbital kept her seizures under control and she received insulin injections twice a day. I cooked her a special diet every day to help control her seizures. She was my happy and loving angel until last week when she started limping and unable to put weight on her right hind leg. The left leg soon fell limp as well and Maggie could not longer walk around. She continued to eat heartily. I knew the time was coming so I made that phone call. It was probably the hardest thing that I have had to do in a very long time.....letting her go. While I wanted to be selfish and hold on to her longer, I knew she was whimpering and groaning because of her pain. Maggie is playing with the angels now in a better, peaceful place. She came into our lives and we are better people because of her. Maggie's paw prints will remain in my heart until I see her again. God bless all those who are having difficulties and let your heart guide you as to the right time.
Apr 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Say a prayer
by: Juli

Tomorrow is our last chance for a miracle. Our Boxer Zoie is showing multiple signs and symptoms of a brian tumor. She goes to MSU tomorrow to find out what if anything can be done. Zoie is 7 1/2 years old. We rescued her 3 years ago from a bad situation. Upon rescue, she was not only thin, she had chewed the hair off her paws from allegies, had a stage 2 cancer tumor on her side and she had heartworm. Immediately we had the tumor removed (all went well due to our wonder vet), put her through heartworm treatment (successfully), and put her on a special diet for her allergies (now under control). This dog has become one of the greatest joys of my life and my heart is breaking. How can one wonderful wonderful dog have so many bad things happen to her in her life. To all dog lovers who read this, please say a prayer for Zoie. Thank you.
Apr 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Maverick
by: pam

My Jack Russell Terrier Maverick is 15 yrs. He was having seizures, then stopped eating and started vomiting. He was hospitalized with pancreatitis. His pancreas, liver, kidney values were off the page. He was given a feeding catheter and blood plasma tranfusion. He was not improving. I brought him home and overnite he started eating. But he started having seizures again. He was up to 1 every 3 days. I came upon a website, it is http://canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com. Please visit this website. It is very informative about seizure meds, and about what you can do about seizures, diets, supplements, etc. I started Maverick on the liver detox diet from their website and he has not had a seizure since February! The vet thinks he has a brain tumor. He has been tested for cushings but the results are in the "gray" area. My vet still thinks he has cushings.

He drags his back left paw and it knuckles under. Since I started him on a supplement called Doggone Pain and another one called NZymes, his walking is alot better and he has his old spunk again.

I do not want to put Maverick on a lot of meds, I watched my other Jack Russell Macgyver who was 17 yrs, suffer from taking so many meds, before he was put down in December.

Please everyone visit the Canine Epilepsy Guardian Angels website. Your pet does not have to have epilepsy in order for you to benefit from this website.

Good Luck to everyone,
Pam
Apr 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Dog Carmine and his Journey
by: Anonymous

On Feb 26th of this year, my 6 year old Boston Terrier, Carmine, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I frantically posted on this page hoping to find some answers. I knew Carmine was not acting right since October and I went to 3 vets only to be told he was feeding off my energy of worrying about him.

After a day of him standing in the corner, I finally told my Vet that there was something wrong with his brain and they sent me for a MRI which confirmed him having a Marcoadenoma (brain tumor). I decided to do radiation therapy - 16 treatments to be exact and today, almost two months after his diagnosis, he is back to my little dog doing all the things he did that made him special. I was very nervous about the radiation therapy because he needed to be put under every day but he came out with no side effects. I am not sure if I would have done the therapy if he was older but being that he was only 6 I needed to give it a try.

There are options out there that can be and will be costly but no price can be put on my best friend's life. I wish everyone luck and much love for what you are going through as I know I am one of the lucky ones. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Apr 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		When is the right Time?
by: Anonymous

It's wonderful to hear your story. I know with my Lhaso Apso, I feel like I am on borrowed time. Some days are good, some are bad... more are starting to be bad than good. But I deal with it. I just look at all the 13 years of joy she's given to everyone and I wouldn't feel right not giving her the same in return. To me animals "Pay Forward"... so I am trying to catch up with my bill! She's diagnosed with CCD (dementia)- a brain tumor has been ruled out by an MRI. The hardest thing I will have to do is to put her down when she gets to the point her quality of life is suffering. I cry every day about it already, so I can only imagine how difficult it will be when the day comes. So while you have time, just give all the lov'n you can and don't complain about anything.
Apr 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update
by: Anonymous

This an an update to my comment, "When is the right Time?"

After a few touch and go days, our 14 year old Shih Tzu bounced back and I realized that the advice some of you gave me about not making a hasty decision to put her down was very sound advice!

The vet has followed up weekly and is now saying that she might be suffering ffom vestibular disease or possibly throwing tiny clots causing mini stroke symptoms. That is not to say the original diagnosis of a brain tumor is out the window, just that there might be other things happening. She is now on 1/4 baby aspirin a day. She did have one seizure (her second in total) last Sunday but it was very short (maybe 30 second) where she lost control of her bladder. She was able to get up and walk around with no signs (except of being frightened) of damage.
I realize her days are numbered, but I remain grateful for each and every day she is able to enjoy eating, walks and our company.

Of course it will be hard to lose her, but I am more at peace with the idea that she has lived a great life and that our lives are that much richer for having adopted her into our family.
Apr 21, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Just been told
by: Toby of Oxford

We have just arranged for our 10 year lab to be put down tomorrow due to a brain tumour. We have had Toby as a puppy and has been a great companion to the whole family.

He has been showing symptons for quite a while but it was diagnosed as Cushing's Disease. Had we been more knowledgeable we might have recognised the 1st tell tale signs 18 months ago.

We are dreading going to the vets. We know that time is a great healer but we know it is going to be so hard and the home will be very empty without him. That said we know it is the right decision for Toby.
Apr 18, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Shadow
by: David B.

I just had the same thing happen to our dog Shadow. I have been feeling guilt about letting her go, but to read your story really helped me. Shadow started walking around continuously. She even tried walking behind my TV. The hardest part was that a few weeks ago she seemed ok. Then all of a sudden the compulsive walking started. When she stopped she would lean against the wall. I fought it and fought it, but the decision was made. I have to be honest that I am and was second guessing myself until I read your post. Take care and thank you.
Apr 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		When is the right time?
by: Anonymous

Selfishly speaking...never. We never want to say goodbye to our 4 legged companions. NEVER. Unfortunately we have to make that unbearable decision once in a while. It is never never never an easy decision.

As hard as it is, you have to look through the dog's eyes...when is enough enough? The million dollar question. If I were a dog, I would not want to be stuck with needles or a lot of meds. I would not want to have to wear diapers because I can't hold my bowels any longer. If your dog is in pain, believe me they will let you know. You have to make the hard decision...don't jump to a decision immediately...especially in your case where this was the first occurence. If it were me, I'd just wait and see what happens next. In the meantime, I would give all the love I could to my dog. The quality of life...is the deciding factor.

We are selfish and always want one more day...and one more and one more. When the time comes, you will know it and you will have a sense of peace of what you have to do. I am not saying it will make it any easier...but you will know in your heart you did all you can do. One day at a time right now. Keep us posted how things progress.
Apr 05, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		When is the right time?
by: Anonymous

This site had been a god send!

My 14 year old Shih Tzu had a seizure a few nights ago. After that her eyes were moving rapidly from side to side. I took her to the vet right away and he said she has a brain tumor, gave her a cortisone shot, prescribed non-drowsy dramamine and said the next 24-48 hours were critical.

Well, 72 hours later the eye movement is all but gone, she is standing and walking (though a bit unsteady) and falling on her face from time to time and mostly sleeps.

I realize in hindsight that this condition must have been around for a while and it would account for the unexplained bouts of falling down (vet ran every blood test during those incidents with no diagnosis) and of course the slow and steady decline in her health.

I realize the prognosis is not good. The vet said we can prolong things with anti seizure meds etc, but I am struggling with how I know when I am keeping her alive for myself and when is the right time to let her go and end her suffering. She isn't in obvious pain (no panting or yelping) but do I really want her to get to that point?

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Apr 02, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Beagle Bailey
by: Lois

Bill:

My condolences to you and your family on the loss of Bailey. I have recently talked to people on how to really survive the loss of a family pet, because I know my Buffy's day is probably not far away. You can never ever mentally prepare yourself for the loss and I know the pain will last for years. We have to remember the good days and all the love and joy you brought into Bailey's life.

We hate seeing our family pets get ill, but when they do you have to make a hard decision and think of their quality of life and not yours...that's what I am having problems with. You did the right thing, just keep remembering the good times.

RIP Bailey.
Mar 31, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Beagle Bailey
by: Bill

We just had to put our 9 year old Beagle down last Friday due to seizures and brain tumors. He went down hill real fast. I left home for a road trip on Wednesady of one week and came home 8 days later. From the time I left until I got home he no longer could jump up on the bed and as I held his head for over an hour he did not even know who I was.

Our vet said we could try all the procdures but we would never have our Bailey back so we elected to have him put down.

I have never cried so hard or felt so bad in my 60 years of living. He was the best dog I ever had and I will never replace him.
Mar 29, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bandit
by: kelsey

Lois,

Thank you for your kind words. It helps hearing other opinions and means a lot to me. I wish you the best with everything.

Kelsey
Mar 29, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Nittany
by: pat

I just had to put my best friend Nittary, a chocolate lab, down on 3/26/2010 due to a brain tumor. I kept telling myself that his falling and seizures and blindness were due to something else, but really I knew. I couldn't stand it anymore that he was falling and panting and banging into walls with no dignity left.

I miss my boy terribly and my house is so lonely. It leaves you so hollow. I really don't even know if he knew me when I was trying to say goodbye but I hope he was in no pain. I miss him terribly and always will.
Mar 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bandit Boy
by: Lois

My deepest deepest sympathies go out to you Kelsey. I am sure you had a lot of happy and wonderful years with Bandit Boy. Those memories will make you laugh and cry for several years to come. Grey Hounds are wonderful companions. I am sure he didn't want to leave you any more than you did... and I hope you had time to talk to him before he left. He probably wasn't in pain, he just let you know it was time for him to go and he wanted you there and you were. It takes a long time to heal after the death of a dog, especially when they were such a dear companion... take your time and find comfort helping other people who have greyhounds. RIP Bandit.
Mar 25, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		bandit boy
by: kelsey

Everyone who has lost a dog, I am so sorry for your loss and now can relate to you all.

Saturday night my 14 year old Italian greyhound died at home with me. 3 months ago he was diagnosed with an enlarged heart and has been on heart meds ever since. I heard him yelp on Sat. So I went to find him breathing slower than ever. I knew it was not normal. I got him when I was 9. I am now 23 and lost without him. I don't think I can ever accept this. My heart hurts so bad. I wish I could hold him again. Thank you for all of your stories...
I just hope he wasn't in pain.
Mar 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		MAGGIE AND JACK
by: Lois

Oh my heart just breaks for you. I spend alot of my time crying too with just 1 dog with CDD. I definitely feel your pain. It's so hard to watch our companions leave us. Like I told Catherine on the post before yours...kicknckn@yahoo.com is my email. I have 2 other ladies, one is in Arizona and 1 here in Florida and we have a great support of each other. We all have sick dogs. Don't do this alone - the pain is to great. Sometimes I feel that nobody understands. Take time to talk and be with Jack and just love and keep him comfortable. I pray the vets can do something for the skin graft. Keep us posted.
Mar 23, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lucy
by: Lois

Catherine:

Don't just jump to brain tumor right away. I thought that was Buffy's diagnosis too...it wasn't. After a trip to the vet and a few tests..CDD. She did the same stuff Lucy does...pants, paces about drives you nuts. The vet put her on 5 mg Anipryl and the symptoms decreased dramatically. Buffy (13 year old Lhaso Apso) also lost a lot of weight at the beginning...I had to start feeding her small portions 6 times a day and now she's gotten better. Her hearing went prior to the CDD, but her eye sight has gotten worse. She has kidney issues, so the Vet recommends leaving the eyes alone. She's not to the point of running into stuff yet...bright light is her friend. The vet also put her on Flex 2500 soft chews, a health supplement for her joints. She use to go outside to do her messes, now she doesn't care so I try to take her out about every 2 hours. Lots of water so she doesn't dehydrate. It's a full time job. She sleeps well and doesn't go out at night.

So don't jump to brain tumor...unless your vet gives you that diagnosis. The internet is a wonderful tool but also a very dangerous tool sometimes.

I wish you luck - If you need a support shoulder, kicknckn@yahoo.com is my email. Hang in there kiddo...love and patience is the key.
Mar 22, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lucy
by: Catherine

I've been searching for sites like this ever since I noticed changes in Lucy, our nearly 16 year old Australian Shepherd. I have 4 of these wonderful dogs (3 now, including Lucy, as I had to have Spike put to sleep last month because he was having violent seizures at age 14).

At first, Lucy's symptoms appeared to be simply old age (arthritis, loss of body mass) but she managed to get around pretty good for an old lady. Cody, her brother and constant companion, still acts like a young dog. However, Lucy's symptoms gradually got worse. Some days she was unable to stand up, so I moved her from their spacious enclosure to the garage, where I could keep a closer eye on her. She has started wandering about aimlessly, sometimes in circles, and panting constantly, but doesn't appear to be in pain or distress. She still has a good appetite and her bowel movements are regular.

After reading several of these posts, I'm convinced we are probably dealing with a brain tumor. My fears are that she will start experiencing more severe symptoms but my goal at the moment is to keep her as comfortable as possible until she lets me know it's time.

My heart is breaking but I know that Lucy knows she is loved.
Mar 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Meggie and Jack
by: Julia

I lost my Meggie April 2nd 2008. I had her for 8 lovely years. I was given her because the lady could not control her. After 3 yrs on she was the best dog at training doing anything I asked of her. She had just 1 litter and I kept her son Jack.

Meggie suddenly started having nose bleeds. I took her to the vets and they straight away said it was a brain tumour. I sadly had to let her rest after 3 months. It broke my heart.

Now Jack is ill. He had a lump removed last week. It was not good. The wound is very large and skin graft is dying. I am at my wits end with worry. He also is showing signs of a brain tumour. I am just waiting for an answer. The vets keep going round in circles. I spend all my time crying. My poor Jack. Please dont leave me like Meggie.
Mar 13, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Bulldogge
by: JG

To the person with the 8 year old golden.... My dog had 7 seizures in two days and was put on Phenobaritol 120 mg per day and she is 53 lbs..... she has had only one breakthrough seizure after only being on the meds about a week.

Hopefully your dog will improve to a point where you are comfortable in feeling she is happy and not suffering. Phenobarbitol can cause side of affects resulting in loss of coordination especially in the hind end... this is what was happening to my wicken, however I thought it was her getting worse. I cut back on her dosage and she is 100% better for it. She is only 5 years old. Now I realize her symptoms were not getting worse, but she was overdosed. That said I do not blame my vet... because I know they started her on a higher dose and in another week she will be tested to see what her levels are and how it's controlling her seizures, and they will in all likelihood lower her dose so she is on the minimum that will keep the seizures at bay. How long it will last we don't know. her seizures are focal seizures at this point and what happens is... her head bobs uncontrollably.

It's nice to know there are people out there going through the same thing and that I am not alone.

Good luck with your Golden and I hope the results you'd like to see happen.

JG
Mar 11, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Duke our boxer
by: Teresa

As I begin to research the possibities that our boxer Duke may have a brain tumor, it seems many of the symptoms listed are those he has presented. It was about 2 months ago that he began having seizures. We related it to the possibility of the dog food being contaminated, but now second guess that. We switched his food and the seizures stopped. This past weekend we noticed behavioral changes which were unlike anything we'd seeen. He was barking at dogs he has socialized with regularly. He also growled which has never been a behavior trait. He also began urinating where he was lying. Again, not normal for him at all. We took him to the vet and ran blood tests. They found his lymph node was enlarged and suggested it could be brain cancer. This came back negative but his symptoms have not improved. Based on the symptoms, circling, being dazed and forgetting how to do simple training, the vet and we think it could be a tumor. We are going to give antibiotics a go but do not want to see him suffer. It isn't fair to him and he deserves a good quality life. He is loved by our entire family and this is very difficult for all of us including Duke. My heart goes to those who have lost a pet.
Mar 11, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Maggie's Mom
by: Lois

My heart goes out to you and Maggie and your family. Buffy has not gone through any seizures that I know of. I do have an appt for the eye doc to look at her eyes. My Buffy is having alot of the same symptoms of a brain tumor except for the seizures. It just kills me to see her like this. I have been crying alot, but I am not giving up on her until she's experiencing pain. I can't put her through any more needles. I appreciate your reply and support more than you could ever know. I wish Maggie well and you strength. I seem to pray for more dogs at night and I do human beings. Have a wonderful day.
Mar 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My Dog Tanner
by: Anonymous

Tanner is a nearly 8 year old Golden Labrador Retriever. She has been the best dog I have ever had. She started having cluster seizures about six months ago and she was put on phenobarbitol after she experienced seven seizures in one day. Since being on the meds, the seizures did not stop but they did appear less frequent but the vet increased her dose.

Twelve days ago we came home to find that she had another seizure. There was a little drool on the sofa and she was pacing the floor. She continued to have three more seizures and we rushed her to the animal hospital. She remained in their care for three days. She had a total of ten seizures. They prescribed Bromide and started her on a dose of 17ml for the first five days. She has been on her normal dose of 2ml twice a day for five days and she is getting worse. She is panting, pacing, starring at walls with her face pressed against them, stumbling, falling into her food and tripping over her legs. She still has an appetite and she is drinking. She knows her name and she wags her tail when she sees the leash but other than that she is not the same dog I have known.

We took her to the vet again today and they ran tests for her liver, kidneys etc. Her bromide levels are good and all of her tests came back good. There are two possibilities - either she has been unable to fully come down off of the meds or she has a brain tumor. We are pretty sure it is the tumor but we are giving her a few days to see if she improves. It is highly unlikely and I know deep down that we are going to have to let her go. Watching her go through this is very hard and we know it is hard on her too.
Mar 10, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lhasa Apso
by: Maggie's Mom

Lois,

I am sorry to hear about your Lhasa. It sounds to me that your little one has cataracts. This might be the cause of your dog tripping and falling because the vision has decreased. Our Maggie had diabetes which caused her cataracts and then glaucoma. She had to have her eyes removed. We went back and forth about it but she did very well adjusted to her vision loss and it was almost like she never had a problem after a while until she recently was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She is on Phenobarb and is doing quite well on that and the fresh, homemade diet we give her. We know we are on borrowed time with her, but as long as she is happy and not in any pain, she will remain with us. Think about feeding your pet fresh food and look into the correction of her cataracts. God Bless.
Mar 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Another helpful poem...
by: Anonymous

A message from our pets...

A View From Rainbow Bridge

We are here with you and whatever we were to each other, that we are still.

Call me by my familiar name. Speak to me in the same easy way, which you always used. Put no difference in your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we shared together. Play, smile and think of us. Pray for us. Let our names be ever the household word that they always were. Let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolutely unbroken continuity. Why should we be out of our mind because we are out of sight.

We are waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well.

Mar 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My 13 year old Lhaso Apso
by: Lois

Our dear Buffy we rescued from a Shelter in Texas 11 years ago, she will be 14 this August 2010. Recently our Vet diagnosed her with mild stage of dementia and she has been on Anipryl for 3 months now. She was pacing and panting terribly. The Anipryl seemed to stop the panting and decreased the pacing. Her appetite is good. But I am seeing the same issues that Spanky had and I really really am having a hard time admitting that maybe it's more than dementia. She can no longer hear. Her eyes were starting to get glazed over but seems to be progressing rapidly. She stands and looks at walls, she's fallen in her food bowls and into the pool. I haven't witnessed any seizure activity. She has a good appetite, sleeps moderately good, hacks during the night.

I am having a really hard time dealing with all of this. She's my buddy and I don't want to lose her even though I feel as if I am on borrowed time with her, it saddens me more than anyone could ever know.
Mar 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you for this site
by: Debbie

I've never felt so alone. I had to put my loving best friend Simba to sleep this past Sat. morning, March 6th. She would have been 16 yrs. old in June. I adopted her from a shelter when she was three and it's been the two of us.

Although I can't confirm it was a brain tumor, her symptoms seemed to indicate it. Late Friday night she stood up and started shaking violently from head to tail and then would fall down. Through the rest of the night I kept holding her (something she didn't normally like), petting, speaking softly and singing to her. I knew in my heart this was the end of our wonderful life together.

Simba was a shepard mix and was treated for arthritis over the last several years with low dosage of Rimadoyl and Tramadol (sp). At first I thought she had a stroke but after reading about brain tumors I've changed my mind.

The messages on this site have really helped me. Good Bless all of you and your pets.