| First, let me say how very sorry I am that you have to make these decisions for your girl - but she's had a long happy life with you, 9 years old....what a good age.
Sadly, too many of us here have had to deal with cancer of some sort with our beloved breed.
What kind of sarcoma does she have?? What does he vet say regarding just making her comfortable versus amputation or other treatment options?
We lost our old girl 5 1/2 months after diagnosis to Osteosarcoma, bone cancer. The affected limb was amputated (right shoulder/leg) and she was pain free until a tumor began to grow at the amputation site. It also metastisized to her lungs, which we knew would happen.
Thelda was not given and chemo or anything like that - we removed the painful limb because even pain killers were not helping. Post surgery we gave her pain meds and made sure she was comfortable.
She had a great summer, lost some weight, had MORE energy than before she was diagnosed, and to be honest, I think she was REALLY happy. She spent her time post amputation laying in the sun on the porch or under a tree in the shade.
Spoil your girl, don't coddle her, but let her know just how special she is. Enjoy your remaining time with her.
One thing I do recommend (learned it form these very forums) is to make a list of your dogs 5 favorite things to do (going for rides, playing fetch, etc...). When she is unable to do these things, then it is time to make a decision regarding sending her to the Rainbow Bridge.
Don't worry about your life without her just yet...she's still with you - make the most of that time you have left...  |