Question:

sorry everyone. i am new to this site. Not sure if im in the right spot. I have a 4 year old cross bread diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. We just got word today. i need help please. Kim


Answer:
Hi Kim, I am new to this site as well, unfortunately I know nothing about your dogs condition. But everyone on the site seems to be great at offering advice if they have it. This site might help you
http://www.lymphomainfo.net/lymphoma/animal.html

I wish you and your furry friend luck and health in your search.

Answer:
Hi Kim. Sorry to hear about your situation. We were also very stunned and sad when my son's 6 year old Aussie was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lymphoma early last January. We had found a few swollen lymph nodes and he seemed more tired. After testing, an oncology vet said our dog would probably die within a month if we chose to do nothing - then she outlined various options. I'm sure your vet will either spend time talking through all this with you or refer you to someone who can.

We chose to go with chemotherapy (Wisconsin Protocol) which is about 5 months long. Some weeks involve a visit to the vet for a drug by IV while other weeks we give pills or nothing at all. Unlike with people, dogs seem to suffer fewer side effects from chemo. Our dog had a couple of instances of nausea, but otherwise has good energy and enjoys life. He was put on Innova Evo food for high protein and fat but low carbs. Fortunately, he is now in remission. We also seriously considered going the less intensive route of giving prednisone pills which would have added at least a few more months to his life and made him feel better.

I send positive thoughts to you and your dog. I'm sure with more information you'll be able to make the right decision for your situation. Your love for your dog is probably the best medicine it could have for the moment.

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I don't have any good advice to offer, but I wanted to say I'm so sorry for the diagnosis. I hope you figure out a way to help your doggy.

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I'm so sorry for the heartache you're going through. I've done a lot of reading about this just within the last 3 weeks. My closest friend's 11yr Border Collie was diagnosed with this also. The classic case is the owner notices listlessness and feels the lumps in the neck (lymph nodes). A trip to the vet where other lumps are found previously unnoticed. When the diagnosis is confirmed, the prognosis is about 8 weeks if there is no treatment. With chemo and radiation, it is a progression of remissions extending 12-15 months, possibly longer. There is no cure. My friend elected to take Flyer (American Flyer) to UC Davis for treatments. Flyer has responded almost overnight. (classic case) The lumps are diminishing and he is playful as a puppy again. As long as he can give Flyer good quality of life, he's going for it. If he begins to have problems with the treatments and no longer has the quality of life there, he will have to make that hard decision. In the meantime, he took Flyer to the coast last weekend to play on the beach and is giving him quality time and attention, but most of all, lots and lots of love. UC Davis is a veterinary college. You can check with your vet if there is one near you. They provide outstanding care and support. Your dog is young at 4yrs to be going through this. I would think that would mean he'd be in better condition otherwise to go through treatments. Good luck.

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