pet advice?

[HomerMcvie]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(

[sara1998]

Gosh... such a tough call. I'm sorry he's still going through all this. I don't have any advice, except for do what your gut tells you is right. Good luck to you!

[Raeven Skye]

oh! i'm so sorry that you have to go thru all that! what a horrible decision to have to make. i think you have to consider a lot of things tho, including how this will affect your dog in the long run. if you think he'll have a good quality of life, then that's a positive.

[JazmenFlowers]

oh my goodness. I'm so sorry you and Cash have to go through all of this. If it were me, I know I would do it. But as the previous post says, go with your gut.

[Beachwood Mac]

I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(

Your answer is right there. I wish you and Cash all the best!

Terry

[Richard B]

While reading your story, I sided with your friends too, to put him to sleep. But then I read your last sentence: I'm so sad. My dog is my child.

That broke my heart. I think it's worth a try, especially if they can get all the cancer out. What a difficult time for you. Whichever you decide, it will be the right thing.

[JazmenFlowers]

oh! i'm so sorry that you have to go thru all that! what a horrible decision to have to make. i think you have to consider a lot of things tho, including how this will affect your dog in the long run. if you think he'll have a good quality of life, then that's a positive.
exactly - that's what I was trying to say too

[GODDESS6]

Gosh... such a tough call. I'm sorry he's still going through all this. I don't have any advice, except for do what your gut tells you is right. Good luck to you!
i agree w/ sara1998, your dog is soooo cute & i truly wish him the best, those are always such tough decisions, give him a squeeze from me:xoxo: , my dog is my child too~

[Raeven Skye]

I would like to also add, that we have a tripod iguana, because we just couldn't put the little greenie down....this was after the vet tried to save her arm...and spent lots of $$$ on a $10 lizard...she's learned to adapt, but 6 months later, she's heathy, and generally happy (you know...for an ig), albeit a little accusatory....so if your heart says you have to at least try...I completely understand...and you have a strong support network in all of us here.

[JazmenFlowers]

If he's not even 8 yrs old yet and they can remove what they need to and he can resume a somewhat happy, healthy life, but will have to learn to do a few things different, he's got lots of great living ahead of him.

Again, I'm so very sorry to hear this. My cat (Chloe) is 4, my beagle (Piper) is 3 and my lab (Lulu) is 2.5 so I know one day I'll be faced with these issues and I wish there were something I could do to help. Much love and best wishes...

[HomerMcvie]

Thanks guys.
I just don't want to do it to be selfish. The vet says, if U of IL is reasonably certain that they can get it all, that she'd do it, if it were her dog. Obviously, Cash doesn't want to die(I know that sounds stupid), so, like I said, I'm leaning towards having the jaw removed.

We've been constant companions. Vacations and all. Truly, a team.

[GODDESS6]

Thanks guys.
I just don't want to do it to be selfish. The vet says, if U of IL is reasonably certain that they can get it all, that she'd do it, if it were her dog. Obviously, Cash doesn't want to die(I know that sounds stupid), so, like I said, I'm leaning towards having the jaw removed.

We've been constant companions. Vacations and all. Truly, a team.
i am the biggest dog luver, i wouldn't want him to die either, if they say they can get it, why not, he means so much to you & you to him, every dog i have ever had & i've had them in my life constantly since birth, i have had a deep relationship w/, they are our kids & they know it~

[JazmenFlowers]

Thanks guys.
I just don't want to do it to be selfish. The vet says, if U of IL is reasonably certain that they can get it all, that she'd do it, if it were her dog. Obviously, Cash doesn't want to die(I know that sounds stupid), so, like I said, I'm leaning towards having the jaw removed.

We've been constant companions. Vacations and all. Truly, a team.
it'll work out.

I'm having issues with a possum in my back yard. It is scary the holy **** out of me. My lab isn't scared of it at all and runs up to it so I have to yank her back inside and try to protect my little beagle too and have sprayed it with water and clipped all the hedges, but the f*ucker won't go away!!!! UGH. And animal control is useless.

[Richard B]

I'm having issues with a possum in my back yard. It is scary the holy **** out of me. My lab isn't scared of it at all and runs up to it so I have to yank her back inside and try to protect my little beagle too and have sprayed it with water and clipped all the hedges, but the f*ucker won't go away!!!! UGH. And animal control is useless.
Just remember possums are practically blind. But you're smart that you keep your dogs away. They are carriers of rabies.

Once growing up we had a possum under the house that would come out at night (nocturnal things) and freak my mom out. I happened to be working at a pet shop at the time (I was 16) and they had a pet trap. So I trapped the filthy rodent and passed it along to a very strange woman who had all kinds of animals and reptiles (all the boys loved her of course). Anyway she ended up keeping it as a pet, it was a bit tame and mellow and allowed petting and stuff. Weird, huh?

[JazmenFlowers]

Just remember possums are practically blind. But you're smart that you keep your dogs away. They are carriers of rabies.

Once growing up we had a possum under the house that would come out at night (nocturnal things) and freak my mom out. I happened to be working at a pet shop at the time (I was 16) and they had a pet trap. So I trapped the filthy rodent and passed it along to a very strange woman who had all kinds of animals and reptiles (all the boys loved her of course). Anyway she ended up keeping it as a pet, it was a bit tame and mellow and allowed petting and stuff. Weird, huh?
yuck. very weird.

the thing is, I normally let my dogs out in the back yard to play for a while at night while I clean up or cook or whatever and now I can't do that b/c that f*ucker is climbing up my fence somehow and just sits there - then Lulu runs up to it and I'm scared it's gonna fall over into my yard and then what'll I do...I'm so annoyed I'm about to go buy a huge mallett

(oh yeah, tried fox piss; supposedly scares it away - don't work) :lol:

[Nixxxed]

I'm really sorry Homer. I agree more with your friends, but not completely. I understand what a hard decision this must be.

How has Cash handled all the treatments so far? The only thing I worry about with pet illnesses is that the treatment/cure causes more pain and suffering than the condition itself. It doesn't sound like that's the case, but it does sound like he's been through a great deal already.

If they take half of his jaw, would they replace it with some sort of internal prosthetic (minus teeth I assume) or series of rods? I'm having a hard time imagining how that would work while still allowing him to eat and play with toys.

[GypsySorcerer]

I'm really sorry. :( I don't know what I'd do in your position. I think the most important thing to consider is Cash's quality of life. I'll be thinking of you and Cash.

[HomerMcvie]

I'm really sorry Homer. I agree more with your friends, but not completely. I understand what a hard decision this must be.

How has Cash handled all the treatments so far?
Like a trooper. He's exactly the same as he's always been. He was mad at me for awhile during the radiation treatments. But we play, every day still. In fact, he'll drive you crazy making you play for hours. He's the most playful dog I've ever seen. Never gets tired of chasing... The only thing I worry about with pet illnesses is that the treatment/cure causes more pain and suffering than the condition itself. It doesn't sound like that's the case, but it does sound like he's been through a great deal already. I know. Believe me, I start crying everytime I think about doing this to him. Basically, there's a price to be paid, if he wants to stay alive, and I want to keep him alive. I sure hope it's worth it.

If they take half of his jaw, would they replace it with some sort of internal prosthetic (minus teeth I assume) or series of rods? I'm having a hard time imagining how that would work while still allowing him to eat and play with toys.
No prosthesis. His tongue would most likely hang out one side of his mouth, and he'd have to learn to eat differently(most likely, just soft canned food from now on). BUT, like the vet said, it's no different than if he got hit by a car, and had to have a leg amputated. If it looks like he can have a reasonable quality of life, I guess you have to do what you have to do, in order to save him. It won't be a pretty face, but does that really matter?

I just got him home from the vet's. I had to wait until he come out of his anesthesia. He's beside me on the couch, completely out of it.
U of IL called my cell while I was waiting for him to "come to". I take Cash there again next Tuesday morning, along with his biopsy results(which should be back by Monday), for another bout of "cancer staging". THEN, the oncologist will decide (through CAT scans) if jaw removal will most likely save him or not. He said he might try something else(I can't remember what he said now), if it looked like jaw removal wouldn't get it.
Maybe I'm being selfish. I don't know. I'd do anything to keep him with me.

Lord, people and their pets!

[DavidMn]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(I totqlly feel you. My boyfriend and I have this minature Dachsund that we consider our child.

[wondergirl9847]

Sorry to hear about Cash's situation. :( We had to put my dog down this past May and it was THE hardest decision I've EVER made. I say, go ahead and take the jaw, he's not 8 quite yet and dogs are really good at adapting and I'm sure Cash would! :)

Good luck on your decision.

[HomerMcvie]

I totqlly feel you. My boyfriend and I have this minature Dachsund that we consider our child.
A mini dachshund was my last dog. She died a few days shy of her 17th birthday. I swore I'd never have another dog. I get WAAAAAAAAAAY too attached to them. They're better than people, IMO. I kind of got this dog by default. I took in a friend, who's roommate was making him move because she didn't want him to have this dog. He found a place in about a month, but saw that I loved the dog more than he, so he gave him to me when he left. We've been inseparable since.

[DavidMn]

A mini dachshund was my last dog. She died a few days shy of her 17th birthday. I swore I'd never have another dog. I get WAAAAAAAAAAY too attached to them. They're better than people, IMO. I kind of got this dog by default. I took in a friend, who's roommate was making him move because she didn't want him to have this dog. He found a place in about a month, but saw that I loved the dog more than he, so he gave him to me when he left. We've been inseparable since.That's s nice!!! You obviously care alot about animals! good for you. Your kindness will be repaid for sure.:angel:

[crylove77]

I have to agree that you should go with your gut, but if it were my cat (my child) I would do it in a second, as long as the quality of life would be good. animals are very smart and can learn new things quickly. It'll probably take him no time at all to learn a different way to eat.

It won't be a pretty face, but does that really matter?

When all is said and done, Cash will have just as beautiful a face as he always has. :nod:

[UnwindedDreams]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :( HM, you put me in to tears, honestly, I 've gone through this many times, do the operation.

[David]

I'm really sorry. :( I don't know what I'd do in your position. I think the most important thing to consider is Cash's quality of life. I'll be thinking of you and Cash.I agree (first time ever) with Krista, dave. If you think Cash will still have a good time post-surgery, go for the surgery. But I know you'd hate to see the little guy miserable constantly.

[HomerMcvie]

I have to agree that you should go with your gut, but if it were my cat (my child) I would do it in a second, as long as the quality of life would be good. animals are very smart and can learn new things quickly. It'll probably take him no time at all to learn a different way to eat.


When all is said and done, Cash will have just as beautiful a face as he always has. :nod:
I know. It makes me feel like I'm mauling, and deforming him. But you know, it really doesn't matter what your best friend looks like, does it? I just hope it's worth it to him, that the pain isn't too great.
Who knows, the CAT scans may show that it's too late for jaw removal. More than anything, I just don't want him to suffer.

[michelle2677]

I know. It makes me feel like I'm mauling, and deforming him. But you know, it really doesn't matter what your best friend looks like, does it? I just hope it's worth it to him, that the pain isn't too great.
Who knows, the CAT scans may show that it's too late for jaw removal. More than anything, I just don't want him to suffer.

Of course it doesnt' matter!! He's still going to be beautiful inside and out. I just got to skim thru this thread and I'm in tears. I truly hope Cash does fine and the Dr's are able to perform the surgery if that is what you want to do. I know it may be selfish, but I would do whatever it took to keep my babies alive also....so long as they are able to be healthy and happy. And hey...dogs like soft food more than hard anyway ;) :D I will be praying for you, and just be thankful that there is still hope at this point that he will be o.k.!! :D *hugs to Homie and cash*

[reebokandlace]

You have a very tough decision to make and only you and Cash can make that decision together. If you know that he doesn't want to die, then you know his stance on going forward with treatment.

I do not feel comfortable giving you advice. I have been where you are at. So any advice I give would be biased based on past experience. It is a very personal choice between a man and his dog.

Just ask yourself, if this was your diagnosis, what would you choose...try to stay alive or choose to die?

Good luck and I will keep Cash in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us all posted.

[Nixxxed]

No prosthesis. His tongue would most likely hang out one side of his mouth, and he'd have to learn to eat differently(most likely, just soft canned food from now on). BUT, like the vet said, it's no different than if he got hit by a car, and had to have a leg amputated. If it looks like he can have a reasonable quality of life, I guess you have to do what you have to do, in order to save him. It won't be a pretty face, but does that really matter?

No, you're right - "pretty face" doesn't matter. I just can't conceive how a jaw (a dog's especially) can work with only one side attached. They're such orally-oriented animals. But if his quality of life (and play) will still be good after some rehab, I'm sure it's worth the trouble and trauma to both of you.

THEN, the oncologist will decide (through CAT scans) if jaw removal will most likely save him or not. He said he might try something else(I can't remember what he said now), if it looked like jaw removal wouldn't get it.
Maybe I'm being selfish. I don't know. I'd do anything to keep him with me.

Lord, people and their pets!

I wish you both good luck. Keep us posted.

And believe me, I completely understand. I lost a lovebird 18 months ago - she got stuck in an egg-laying cycle and basically laid eggs to the point her body was so run down she had a heart attack one afternoon. But the 9 months before that, we were at the vet weekly trying everything we could think of to get her reproductive organs to switch off for a while - including injections of hormones and even human birth control serum. That especially was traumatic for me - this tiny sweet bird subjected to a needle that was nearly as big as she was. :distress: But I wasn't about to give up on her, and she knew that. And I'm sure Cash knows the same thing. :xoxo:

[stargazer99]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(

I'm so sorry! I lost my first pet to cancer when I was 29 years old. She was my baby at the time, so I totally understand what you're going through.

All I can tell you is to be as informed as you can about the pros and cons. If the vets think he'll be okay and won't suffer too much, then I'd say do it. But if it will only prolong his suffering, then, as difficult a decision as it would be, you may not want to put him through it.

I didn't have to make any decisions about surgeries or anything for my cat. But the last week or so of her life, she went downhill fast, and was probably suffering for at least the last several days. I finally made the call to the vet, and scheduled an appt to have her put to sleep. The day before I was supposed to take her in, she was in really bad shape. I tried to pick her up, and she made the most anguished sounds like she was in incredible pain. I put her back down and went to work. When I got home from work, I found her dead in my bathroom. My biggest regret was that I hadn't put her out of her misery before it got to that point.

[MoonChilde]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(
AWW I am so sorry you have to make such hard choices for your beloved dog..Listen to your heart and your Cash..and know that I too will keep you both in my prayers..I think of my dogs as my kids too and its so hard when they are ill..I have a link to a really good site of pet lovers if you need someone who has been there to chat with or to get some opionions ..I don;t think we are allowed to post links here so if you would like it Pm me and I will send it to you...Please give Cash a gentle hug for me..

[MoonChilde]

HomeMCVie .check your inbox..sent you the link..
(((hugs))))

[Stephanie]

Homer I have a lot of experience in this area. I sent my Dog to Auburn U for a hemimandibulectomy 3 years ago.

She had a fibrosarcoma that the vet removed. Grew to size of orange in 3 days. Then grew back in 3 days. Jaw resection initially looked ok but 3 days later the jaw started locking up and she would scream in pain. So about 1 week after all that surgery, we had to put her to sleep. I know this does not happen to everyone, but this is my personal experience.

[Janet]

My best friend and my aunt both spent over 2000 dollars to fix their animals.

My best friend's cat was 15 and she still got the operation to remove the tumor from his bladder. She got another 6 months but she wouldn't have traded that for the world.

If my BooBoo could have been saved, even at 20, I would have done it.

Do it, as long as your baby can still live a functional life afterwards...you still have many good years for 8 is so young.

Damn, I'm crying now:(

[Janet]

Homer I have a lot of experience in this area. I sent my Dog to Auburn U for a hemimandibulectomy 3 years ago.

She had a fibrosarcoma that the vet removed. Grew to size of orange in 3 days. Then grew back in 3 days. Jaw resection initially looked ok but 3 days later the jaw started locking up and she would scream in pain. So about 1 week after all that surgery, we had to put her to sleep. I know this does not happen to everyone, but this is my personal experience.

I'm so sorry.

[HomerMcvie]

Homer I have a lot of experience in this area. I sent my Dog to Auburn U for a hemimandibulectomy 3 years ago.

She had a fibrosarcoma that the vet removed. Grew to size of orange in 3 days. Then grew back in 3 days. Jaw resection initially looked ok but 3 days later the jaw started locking up and she would scream in pain. So about 1 week after all that surgery, we had to put her to sleep. I know this does not happen to everyone, but this is my personal experience.
I know. And there's a fair chance that the CAT scans will tell U of IL that there's nothing they can do. The jaw removal is the only hope I have. If it's still not spread beyond the jaw. They've told me all along that it would most likely go to the lungs and lymph nodes first. My vet says his lymph nodes feel fine, and his lung x-rays look clear. Of course, x-rays aren't nearly as accurate as CAT scans. Fingers sure are crossed, although, of course, I dread the jaw removal too. So invasive...I almost can't bear the thought of putting him through that, but, at the same time, don't want to lose my baby.:angel:

[HomerMcvie]

My best friend and my aunt both spent over 2000 dollars to fix their animals.

My best friend's cat was 15 and she still got the operation to remove the tumor from his bladder. She got another 6 months but she wouldn't have traded that for the world.

If my BooBoo could have been saved, even at 20, I would have done it.

Do it, as long as your baby can still live a functional life afterwards...you still have many good years for 8 is so young.

Damn, I'm crying now:(
Since Feb, I'm in for (are you sitting down?)....$5800. Lord only knows what I'll rack up next week. My business is very cyclical, and I usually make a big cushion in the spring and fall, which last me through the summer and winter. Well, I spent $5200 on him in the spring, and BARELY, BARELY, made it through the summer. I quit eating out, got rid of my cell phone, downgraded my cable(to the $13 basic). It was close to thinking of selling my house.
Now, I'm FINALLY caught up, with a cushion for winter, and here we go again!
But, at the end of the day, I'd rather have my baby than the money.
Anyone want to buy some guitars?

He wouldn't eat or drink yesterday. His mouth was too sore, and swollen. I finally got him to take a couple sips before I went to bed, and lick some melted ice cream. He just got up, and he's drinking water like a mad man!:woohoo:

I appreciate all the good thoughts, guys.:xoxo: :angel: :xoxo:

[Stephanie]

I know. And there's a fair chance that the CAT scans will tell U of IL that there's nothing they can do. The jaw removal is the only hope I have. If it's still not spread beyond the jaw. They've told me all along that it would most likely go to the lungs and lymph nodes first. My vet says his lymph nodes feel fine, and his lung x-rays look clear. Of course, x-rays aren't nearly as accurate as CAT scans. Fingers sure are crossed, although, of course, I dread the jaw removal too. So invasive...I almost can't bear the thought of putting him through that, but, at the same time, don't want to lose my baby.:angel:

Well our thoughts are with you whatever you decide to do. I know Cash feels lucky to have you and to have you acting with his best interest in mind.

[JazmenFlowers]

Well our thoughts are with you whatever you decide to do. I know Cash feels lucky to have you and to have you acting with his best interest in mind.
totally. it is awesome to see how caring and loving you are to your pet. some pet owners forget that their pets rely on them for so much and give nothing but love back.

ok, here I am crying now...

[MoonChilde]

[QUOTE=HomerMcvie]Since Feb, I'm in for (are you sitting down?)....$5800. Lord only knows what I'll rack up next week. My business is very cyclical, and I usually make a big cushion in the spring and fall, which last me through the summer and winter. Well, I spent $5200 on him in the spring, and BARELY, BARELY, made it through the summer. I quit eating out, got rid of my cell phone, downgraded my cable(to the $13 basic). It was close to thinking of selling my house.
Now, I'm FINALLY caught up, with a cushion for winter, and here we go again!
But, at the end of the day, I'd rather have my baby than the money.
Anyone want to buy some guitars?

He wouldn't eat or drink yesterday. His mouth was too sore, and swollen. I finally got him to take a couple sips before I went to bed, and lick some melted ice cream. He just got up, and he's drinking water like a mad man!:woohoo:

I appreciate all the good thoughts, guys.:xoxo: :angel: :xoxo:[/QUOTE

Homer..should you decide to go ahead with the operation..there are organazations out there that can and will help you with your vet bills...I am not sure of the name off the top of my head..but if you go to that link i sent you and ask around..someone there is sure to know..in fact I think there are a couple of members or past memebers who log on there..

[HomerMcvie]

Just got back from U of IL. Even though they'd told me they were going to do CT scans on Tuesday, they told me I had to stay overnight, or bring him back today for them to do them. Normally, that would've pissed me off(it's a 6 hour drive, roundtrip), BUT, as soon as I dropped Cash off for his Tuesday testing, the gas line on my Blazer ruptured, spewing gas all over the road. I'm actually very lucky the exhaust didn't catch it on fire. So, the only luck was that it was very close to the Chevy dealer when this happened, right next to the hotel I was going to stay at. Well, believe it or not, they had to remove the transaxle to GET to the fuel line...... $525.00!!!!, and next day arrival on the new gas line, so I was stuck in Champaign anyway. Am I having a run of bad luck, or what?

So, the important part: The cancer hasn't spread beyond his jaw, except for one lymph node, right next to it. They said they could remove that lymph node along with the jaw. So, we go back next Thursday, and they'll keep him until likely Sunday or Monday. Geez though, $1500 for the testing yesterday and today, and 2-3k for the surgery next week. This puts me over the 10k mark for Cash' health care this year.:distress: But (and I thought of this driving over), I don't need money, I need Cash! They have a credit card program for these things, with 12 months same as cash. So, I signed up for it, so at least I can break this bill over the next year(still....$300-$400 a month:distress: ).

But, the important thing is, it looks like they might save him!:blob2: :blob2: :blob2: Of course, they say there's no guarantee that it won't reappear somewhere in the future, but they'll have all of it out of him for now.:angel:

[MoonChilde]

[So, the important part: The cancer hasn't spread beyond his jaw, except for one lymph node, right next to it. They said they could remove that lymph node along with the jaw. So, we go back next Thursday, and they'll keep him until likely Sunday or Monday. Geez though, $1500 for the testing yesterday and today, and 2-3k for the surgery next week. This puts me over the 10k mark for Cash' health care this year.:distress: But (and I thought of this driving over), I don't need money, I need Cash! They have a credit card program for these things, with 12 months same as cash. So, I signed up for it, so at least I can break this bill over the next year(still....$300-$400 a month:distress: ).

But, the important thing is, it looks like they might save him!:blob2: :blob2: :blob2: Of course, they say there's no guarantee that it won't reappear somewhere in the future, but they'll have all of it out of him for now.:angel:[/QUOTE]

AWW Sorry you are having such bad ass luck right now..But am happy to hear that the doc's will be able to help your Cash!! that is good news..Will keep you and Cash in my thoughts..and prayers..
I have to take my baby in tomorrow to have his eyes checked..I am really afraid he is going blind in one eye..Dawson is a 1 year old dalmatian..but for the last few weeks his one eye is sorta really red and glazed over..We tried eye drops from vet but not getting any better..and the glazed look is worse..Sorry to steal your post..just worried myself
Anyway I will be anixous to know how your baby makes out ..Hang in there..

[GODDESS6]

yay for cash, i hope all goes well, he is in my thoughts & prayers:xoxo: !!!~

[HomerMcvie]

AWW Sorry you are having such bad ass luck right now..But am happy to hear that the doc's will be able to help your Cash!! that is good news..Will keep you and Cash in my thoughts..and prayers..
I have to take my baby in tomorrow to have his eyes checked..I am really afraid he is going blind in one eye..Dawson is a 1 year old dalmatian..but for the last few weeks his one eye is sorta really red and glazed over..We tried eye drops from vet but not getting any better..and the glazed look is worse..Sorry to steal your post..just worried myself
Anyway I will be anixous to know how your baby makes out ..Hang in there..
Thanks. Eye problems seem pretty frequent. I saw 4 or 5 dogs over there with eye problems. One this afternoon, in particular, who's eye looked just like you described.

[HomerMcvie]

yay for cash, i hope all goes well, he is in my thoughts & prayers:xoxo: !!!~
Thanks. Of course I'm happy, but still nervous as hell! This is such a big surgery, I'm still questioning if it's the right thing. I'm not going to change my mind, but I can't stand the thought of him being in great pain for a few weeks. And, him being locked in a cage for 4-5 days(they want him Thursday, just for the surgeons to get their game plan{I have to work Thursday night-and honestly CAN'T turn down the work!}, and won't operate until Friday morning, and want to keep him until probably Monday evening). And lord only knows what he thinks of me for putting him through all this painful stuff. Yes, he's spoiled rotten. The times I've stayed overnight at U of IL was SO they wouldn't put him in a cage overnight. I'd take him back to the hotel with me, then back to the hospital at 7AM the next morning.
But, I guess we'll do what we have to do.
Thanks.

[Nixxxed]

Thanks for the update. Rocky was nuzzled under my neck just a bit ago while I was watching TV, and you and Cash crossed my mind. I was glad to see your good news when I logged back in. I'm glad the cancer hasn't spread and that it looks like they'll be able to get it all.

I wish you both luck this (next?) weekend! I know what you mean about leaving Cash there - I remember crying all day the day my ex and I checked his schnauzer into the neuter clinic, and we were picking him up that evening after work!

[BTFLCHLD]

unless it is a regular vet visit...
i bawl the entire time from entrance to exit...
my babies mean sooo much to me...

take care homer...hugggss
sending best wishes for cash

[GateandGarden]

David, I just read through all of this and was updated on what's been going on with y'all. You two will be in my thoughts. I hope the surgery goes well and he recovers quickly. I certainly know from previous posts how very dear he is to you.

[Brwn_eyes0511]

ITS SO SAD! :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

Do what you feel would be in the best interest of the dog! I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

[JazmenFlowers]

Much love to you both and best wishes. I totally hope and pray all goes well. I wish there were something I/we could do to help with your expenses. I'll think on it. J

[BTFLCHLD]

Much love to you both and best wishes. I totally hope and pray all goes well. I wish there were something I/we could do to help with your expenses. I'll think on it. J maybe ebay "cash for cash"

[Nixxxed]

maybe ebay "cash for cash"
That's a really good idea.

[BTFLCHLD]

That's a really good idea.
set up a number of offerings
everybody bins one
everybody wins

the item could be a pic
of homer & cash
if it has to be something tangible :shrug:

[edit: bins? er BIDS]

[Lisa1769]

I'm hoping Cash will recover nicely. I'm sure he will!!

Isn't he a Border Collie? I remember you posting his picture way back, and thinking he was. I love Border Collies. So playful and full of energy.

I'm hoping the best for him!!

[Johnny Stew]

Homie, you and Cash will be in my thoughts and prayers.... I hope everything works out for the best. :xoxo:

[HomerMcvie]

I'm hoping Cash will recover nicely. I'm sure he will!!

Isn't he a Border Collie? I remember you posting his picture way back, and thinking he was. I love Border Collies. So playful and full of energy.

I'm hoping the best for him!!
He's a mix, but the vet always says he's got Border Collie. ARE they(BC's) playful, and full of energy? If so, it's DEFINITE! He will drive you NUTS making you play! For hours! And he's possibly some Whippet, too(he's fast as lightning, and his small head can back out of any collar).
But, playing is his reason for living. After being under full anesthesia today, and sleeping all the way home, we're currently on repeat mode, throwing a leather chew across the family room.:xoxo:

[HomerMcvie]

unless it is a regular vet visit...
i bawl the entire time from entrance to exit...
my babies mean sooo much to me...

take care homer...hugggss
sending best wishes for cash
Thanks. I know, I've cried several times a day for the past couple weeks. It's so unfair, that he should have to go through this. I can't bear the thought of him in a cage, on IV's, for daaaaaayyyyyyys!:( :( :(

[macfan 57]

David, I'm so glad you got some good news about Cash.:angel: I hope all goes well with the surgery & Cash recovers quickly. My little dog & I will be thinking of you two. I'm sure Cash doesn't hold anything against you regarding all that they're doing to him to try to save his life. Dogs understand things more than you think.

P.S. Don't worry about your car. You can always get another car, but Cash is one of a kind.:)

[reebokandlace]

I like the ebay idea....or even paypal....lets help Homer out...it would be nice to help a fellow ledgie....a little donation goes a long way...even if each of us gave a buck or two, I am sure it would help....how many of us gave to red cross or animal shelters after Katrina? We didn't even know those people.

I know this is different, it is not natural distaster, this is Homer's choice to go into debt, but hey, the guy is trying to save his dog and it sounds like he is going to be eating ramen noodles this winter...

I hope someone actually organizes a "SAVE CASH" fund...it would be nice.

[Lisa1769]

ARE they(BC's) playful, and full of energy? If so, it's DEFINITE!

The one I had years ago was. He had a thing for buckets. He would put the handle in his mouth and swing it in circles, then throw it up in the air. Repeat process over and over. It was funny to watch!

[BTFLCHLD]

I like the ebay idea....or even paypal....lets help Homer out...it would be nice to help a fellow ledgie....a little donation goes a long way...even if each of us gave a buck or two, I am sure it would help....how many of us gave to red cross or animal shelters after Katrina? We didn't even know those people.

I know this is different, it is not natural distaster, this is Homer's choice to go into debt, but hey, the guy is trying to save his dog and it sounds like he is going to be eating ramen noodles this winter...

I hope someone actually organizes a "SAVE CASH" fund...it would be nice. well...homer's permission and a photo of cash would be needed :D

[HomerMcvie]

The one I had years ago was. He had a thing for buckets. He would put the handle in his mouth and swing it in circles, then throw it up in the air. Repeat process over and over. It was funny to watch!
Cash has "fits". He runs around in big circles, as fast as he can go, growling at you as he runs by. It's hilarious!
His other thing is making you throw those square leather chews, over and over, while you're ATTEMPTING to watch TV. I usually have to beg him to stop.

About the eBay thing, I think I'm too proud to do that....:confused: I became an expert on getting by on as little as possible, this past summer, to pay his bills. If I really cut back now, and strategically rob my savings on the months that I didn't make enough extra money for his bills, we should be okay.
I kinda like Ramen noodles.;)

[BTFLCHLD]

Cash has "fits". He runs around in big circles, as fast as he can go, growling at you as he runs by. It's hilarious!
His other thing is making you throw those square leather chews, over and over, while you're ATTEMPTING to watch TV. I usually have to beg him to stop.

About the eBay thing, I think I'm too proud to do that....:confused: I became an expert on getting by on as little as possible, this past summer, to pay his bills. If I really cut back now, and strategically rob my savings on the months that I didn't make enough extra money for his bills, we should be okay.
I kinda like Ramen noodles.;) ok...would you mind posting a pic of cash tho?

i know what you mean about the runaround
my shelly shep is a frisbee girl and she never ever tires
hours and hours...she lives for fetch and i love her.

[seeker007nmss]

That's a toughy...I am not sure what I would do....:sorry: Maybe this will bring a small chuckle....





<img src="http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/Dreamtimezzz/Tubs_1.jpg" alt="Image hosted by Photobucket.com">

[HomerMcvie]

That's a toughy...I am not sure what I would do....:sorry: Maybe this will bring a small chuckle....

That's so funny. Your baby on the right looks happy, before and after. Your baby on the left looks a little upset in the after.:)

Here's a picture of Cash.

[HomerMcvie]

David, I'm so glad you got some good news about Cash.:angel: I hope all goes well with the surgery & Cash recovers quickly. My little dog & I will be thinking of you two. I'm sure Cash doesn't hold anything against you regarding all that they're doing to him to try to save his life. Dogs understand things more than you think.

P.S. Don't worry about your car. You can always get another car, but Cash is one of a kind.:)
Thanks Mary Anne. I know, to hell with the car. It's just one bill after another! After barely making it through the summer financially(my mortgage payment is huge), I DO have a cushion in the bank now, that was supposed to tide me through the slower winter months(there aren't many musical acts that tour from mid Nov- Feb, so my income drops substantially). It wasn't looking like a penny pinching winter, until now. At least I've pre-paid enough LP gas for the winter. Heating's one bill I won't have to worry about!

[SuzeQuze]

That's a toughy...I am not sure what I would do....:sorry: Maybe this will bring a small chuckle....





<img src="http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/Dreamtimezzz/Tubs_1.jpg" alt="Image hosted by Photobucket.com">

You post the best pics!

[SuzeQuze]

totally. it is awesome to see how caring and loving you are to your pet. some pet owners forget that their pets rely on them for so much and give nothing but love back.

ok, here I am crying now...

Me too, I am so sorry HM that you are going through all of this with Cash. It's too much. I had Mufy in the hospital for 3 days last year and it was so hard. I visited him while he was in there, I went to his cage. He had this IV in his paw which was all wrapped in a bandage. It was so sad. I managed to have a nice visit with him and, honestly, his posture and everything told me he was going to be fine. It was almost like he talked to me, I felt so calm after that, it was weird! He came home the next day.

I hope that the mass Cash has is contained and they can do something for your baby. :angel: Mufy (Mufasa) is my baby too. On Edit: I see that you brought him in today. Mufy and I will be thinking of you both. Cash is such a handsome boy! He would want more time with you and would tell you that if he could, I'm sure you're doing the right thing.

Here's Mufy in case anyone's forgotten what he looks like, and if any newbies want to see him. :D Just looking at his pic puts a smile on my face anyway.

<img src="http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/SuzeQuze/MufyEarlyMay2005.jpg" alt="Image hosted by Photobucket.com">

[JazmenFlowers]

Me too, I am so sorry HM that you are going through all of this with Cash. It's too much. I had Mufy in the hospital for 3 days last year and it was so hard. I visited him while he was in there, I went to his cage. He had this IV in his paw which was all wrapped in a bandage. It was so sad. I managed to have a nice visit with him and, honestly, his posture and everything told me he was going to be fine. It was almost like he talked to me, I felt so calm after that, it was weird! He came home the next day.

I hope that the mass Cash has is contained and they can do something for your baby. :angel: Mufy (Mufasa) is my baby too. On Edit: I see that you brought him in today. Mufy and I will be thinking of you both. Cash is such a handsome boy! He would want more time with you and would tell you that if he could, I'm sure you're doing the right thing.

Here's Mufy in case anyone's forgotten what he looks like, and if any newbies want to see him. :D Just looking at his pic puts a smile on my face anyway.

<img src="http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/SuzeQuze/MufyEarlyMay2005.jpg" alt="Image hosted by Photobucket.com">

how cute!!! I love the way cats love to sit on things. My cat has OCD, I swear. She goes from being obsessed with sitting on the piano bench, to the office chair, to the leather couch and then back again...she's so funny.

[HomerMcvie]

Me too, I am so sorry HM that you are going through all of this with Cash. It's too much. I had Mufy in the hospital for 3 days last year and it was so hard. I visited him while he was in there, I went to his cage. He had this IV in his paw which was all wrapped in a bandage. It was so sad. I managed to have a nice visit with him and, honestly, his posture and everything told me he was going to be fine. It was almost like he talked to me, I felt so calm after that, it was weird!
And it's going to be hard, that I can't visit him(like I said, it's 6 hours roundtrip). They want him next Thursday, to Sunday or Monday. I have shows I have to work Thursday to Sunday. I've found a fill-in for me on Sunday, IF they're ready to release him then. I could find a replacement on Thursday evening, too, but that's a well paying show, and I feel like I can't afford to pass it up, given the vet bills.

Mufy is so cute. It's so funny how they change the places that they lie. My older cat is the funny one(of two that I have). She changes official places to lie, about once a week. She was my Mom's, and she was always so backwards. Afraid of everybody, and everything. She always hid when any company was there(me included). I've had her almost three years now(Mom died of pancreatic cancer), and she's really changed her tune. She ten times more outgoing than she was. She's curled up on the couch beside Cash right now(which is amazing, she always hated him, just because he was a dog).

[michelle2677]

Homer-I just wanted to let you know I am still praying for your Cash. He is such a sweet baby and I know everything will go just fine!! (huggs and kisses to Cash):angel:

[HomerMcvie]

Homer-I just wanted to let you know I am still praying for your Cash. He is such a sweet baby and I know everything will go just fine!! (huggs and kisses to Cash):angel:
Thank you. Your good thoughts are much appreciated. Honestly, I feel worse that he's going to be alone, in a cage, for 4-5 days. He's very much a people dog, and hates to be alone. I tried, once, to leave him with my friend, who was his previous owner(and he LOVES), while I went out of town for the weekend. He wasn't having it. He cried all day, and lay on their bed, and groaned all night. I had to cut my weekend to one night(I called to check in, and I could hear him crying in the backround), and come home and get my baby(okay, I'm now a little embarrassed having told that).:o :o :o
So we've only taken vacations that he can go on since.
Is he spoiled rotten? You bet.;)

[shackin'up]

So, here's the history, for anyone who doesn't remember:
This past Feb, my dog Cash developed a mass in his mouth. It turned out to be oral melanoma. We did radiation treatments, through the U of IL, then chemo, through my vet, which ran into July. We've done monthly checkups since then, and everything was fine, until a couple weeks ago.

The vet thought she saw some growth in the area where the mass had previously been(I couldn't see any difference though). She took some cells, put em on a slide, and sent them to Purdue (big vet school) for analysis. They came back negative!, although they said they'd like to see a full biopsy. Well, since then, the mass has grown substantially.:( She removed it, a couple hours ago, and said it's bad, that it had spread around a tooth, and was likely spreading rapidly through his jaw.

So, about the only HOPE is removing one side of his lower jaw. This is a decision that U of IL will have to make(if it's a viable option). She said it takes about a month to recover, and the pet usually goes through a period of depression. Obviously, they have to relearn how to eat, also.
My aunt tells me that I shouldn't put him through all this, that it's too much for him(he's not even 8yo yet, btw). A friend told me last night that I shouldn't, also. The vet says if they can get all the cancer, that I should do it. I'm leaning towards doing it. What would you do?


I'm so sad. My dog is my child.:( :( :(

I cannot give any advise, it's all up to you. But i feel very sorry for your dog and you. It's a heavy situation. I'll think about you guys.

[SuzeQuze]

And it's going to be hard, that I can't visit him(like I said, it's 6 hours roundtrip). They want him next Thursday, to Sunday or Monday. I have shows I have to work Thursday to Sunday. I've found a fill-in for me on Sunday, IF they're ready to release him then. I could find a replacement on Thursday evening, too, but that's a well paying show, and I feel like I can't afford to pass it up, given the vet bills.

Mufy is so cute. It's so funny how they change the places that they lie. My older cat is the funny one(of two that I have). She changes official places to lie, about once a week. She was my Mom's, and she was always so backwards. Afraid of everybody, and everything. She always hid when any company was there(me included). I've had her almost three years now(Mom died of pancreatic cancer), and she's really changed her tune. She ten times more outgoing than she was. She's curled up on the couch beside Cash right now(which is amazing, she always hated him, just because he was a dog).

Sorry you have to leave your baby there. If the people that work there are anything like those at my animal hospital he is in good hands. They are wonderful here.

Mufy has been sitting with my roommate for weeks but last nite she was out so I got some snuggle time. Then he woke me up this morning snuggling. What a little sweetie. :)

You and Cash remain in my thoughts. :angel:

[HomerMcvie]

For any good thoughts any of you have for Cash, now is the time.
They've just taken him to the anesthesia ward. They said I probably wouldn't hear anything else until about 4PM. That's five hours from now! They said he's going to be the last surgery patient of the day. THANKS.:angel:

[wondergirl9847]

Thoughts and prayers for you and Cash. :)

[macfan 57]

For any good thoughts any of you have for Cash, now is the time.
They've just taken him to the anesthesia ward. They said I probably wouldn't hear anything else until about 4PM. That's five hours from now! They said he's going to be the last surgery patient of the day. THANKS.:angel:

David, I'll be thinking of you and Cash today.:angel:

[HomerMcvie]

David, I'll be thinking of you and Cash today.:angel:
Thanks. I sure hope they're able to get all of the cancer. Of course, there are no guarantees. They say microscopic amounts could be elsewhere, unknown the them(and apparently undetectable, at this point). At least they'll be getting this aggressive mass removed.
God I hate being three hours away from this! Although, he has a vet student, Lara, looking after him. She's great, and was loving on him before I left him yesterday afternoon. She's called me twice already, just to keep me updated on him.

[GODDESS6]

Thanks. I sure hope they're able to get all of the cancer. Of course, there are no guarantees. They say microscopic amounts could be elsewhere, unknown the them(and apparently undetectable, at this point). At least they'll be getting this aggressive mass removed.
God I hate being three hours away from this! Although, he has a vet student, Lara, looking after him. She's great, and was loving on him before I left him yesterday afternoon. She's called me twice already, just to keep me updated on him.
good luck & best wishes to cash i will be thinking of him!!!:nod: ~

[stargazer99]

For any good thoughts any of you have for Cash, now is the time.
They've just taken him to the anesthesia ward. They said I probably wouldn't hear anything else until about 4PM. That's five hours from now! They said he's going to be the last surgery patient of the day. THANKS.:angel:

Good thoughts for you and Cash coming your way! I hope everything turns out okay. :angel:

[GypsySorcerer]

I'll be thinking of you and Cash today.....and hoping that Cash gets a clean bill of health.

[paleshadow]

I knew there was a patron saint for pets, but I found Saint Roch was specifically for dogs and people who love them. I've said a prayer to him for you and Cash. Also, I found this quote on a web site and I thought it was nice so here it is:

THEY ARE OUR FRIENDS...PARTNERS...
PROTECTORS...EVER-LOYAL...ALL-FORGIVING...
TO THEIR HEARTS' LAST BEAT...
THE LEAST WE OWE THEM IS TO LIVE A LIFE
THAT IS WORTHY OF THEIR DEVOTION

[HomerMcvie]

I knew there was a patron saint for pets, but I found Saint Roch was specifically for dogs and people who love them. I've said a prayer to him for you and Cash. Also, I found this quote on a web site and I thought it was nice so here it is:

THEY ARE OUR FRIENDS...PARTNERS...
PROTECTORS...EVER-LOYAL...ALL-FORGIVING...
TO THEIR HEARTS' LAST BEAT...
THE LEAST WE OWE THEM IS TO LIVE A LIFE
THAT IS WORTHY OF THEIR DEVOTION
Thanks. I really like that passage.:)

[Raeven Skye]

For any good thoughts any of you have for Cash, now is the time.
They've just taken him to the anesthesia ward. They said I probably wouldn't hear anything else until about 4PM. That's five hours from now! They said he's going to be the last surgery patient of the day. THANKS.:angel:
you've got tons of good vibes coming your way! i know it's nerve-wracking, but be strong...we're all here for you! lots of love to you both

[SuzeQuze]

Yes, you and Cash remain in my thoughts and prayers. :angel: I am sending thoughts of him having successful surgery from which he emerges healthy and cancer free.

[Mari]

Best of luck!

[shackin'up]

beat the demon Cash!!!

[GateandGarden]

For any good thoughts any of you have for Cash, now is the time.
They've just taken him to the anesthesia ward. They said I probably wouldn't hear anything else until about 4PM. That's five hours from now! They said he's going to be the last surgery patient of the day. THANKS.:angel:I am thinking about you two, have been since I found out about the surgery. Y'all have not been far from my mind at all.

[JazmenFlowers]

I knew there was a patron saint for pets, but I found Saint Roch was specifically for dogs and people who love them. I've said a prayer to him for you and Cash. Also, I found this quote on a web site and I thought it was nice so here it is:

THEY ARE OUR FRIENDS...PARTNERS...
PROTECTORS...EVER-LOYAL...ALL-FORGIVING...
TO THEIR HEARTS' LAST BEAT...
THE LEAST WE OWE THEM IS TO LIVE A LIFE
THAT IS WORTHY OF THEIR DEVOTION
gosh that makes me tear up.

Best of luck to Cash...and you too.

[HomerMcvie]

gosh that makes me tear up.

Best of luck to Cash...and you too.
Thanks. OH how I wish the phone would ring! But, they said, "no news, is good news". They just scared me with the warnings that occasionally, patient's sometimes don't come out of anesthesia.
But, he's a strong little dog...and he's been under like 10 times this year, so....

[reebokandlace]

I am keeping cash in my thoughts and prayers!!

[catinthedark]

Thanks. OH how I wish the phone would ring! But, they said, "no news, is good news". They just scared me with the warnings that occasionally, patient's sometimes don't come out of anesthesia.
But, he's a strong little dog...and he's been under like 10 times this year, so....

Any news yet on your doggy? Hope he knocks all the odds right out of the park and comes home with his tail wagging, feeling good, and healthy. Really hoping for the best for you guys..

[michelle2677]

Good Luck To CAsh!!! :)

[HomerMcvie]

Any news yet on your doggy? Hope he knocks all the odds right out of the park and comes home with his tail wagging, feeling good, and healthy. Really hoping for the best for you guys..
NO!!!! I've been sitting by the phone for the last hour. But, like I said, they warned me that no news is good news, so don't freak out if we're late calling.

.....................

[MoonChilde]

Thinking of You and Cash!! I have a special candle burning here and am sending lots of good positive thoughts your way...Hang in there ..!!

St. Francis' Prayer For A Sick Animal
Heavenly Father,
you created all things for your glory
and made us stewards of this creature.
If it is your will, restore it to health and strength.
Blessed are you, Lord God,
and holy is your name for ever and ever. Amen

[HomerMcvie]

Thanks guys!:angel:
They FINALLY called! The operation went pretty well. They didn't remove his entire jaw. They took about 2-3 inches out of the middle of it, meaning, that he still has a couple of front teeth(over to the canine tooth, if I understood them correctly), and I guess a molar in the back. I guess the two benefits of this are, one- that it was slightly less invasive- his mandible is still in it's socket, with a tooth there(probably a little less healing time), and two- he'll still look somewhat normal, with his "lips" having support in the back and front(not that I care what he looks like, but that's still a bonus).
They weren't going to be sure of how much they were going to HAVE to take, until they got in there, and saw what margins they were going to have to leave, to get past all the cancer.
He's in intensive care, on a morphine drip, and will stay there until they're ready to release him(probably Monday or Tuesday, they'll try to give a good guess tomorrow evening).
Thanks again, guys.

[Nixxxed]

:blob1: :blob2: :blob1:

I'm so happy for you both.

[macfan 57]

David, that's fantastic news! Maybe all of those good thoughts from everyone here helped just a little. I hope Cash is able to get home to you very soon.:angel:

[GateandGarden]

I'm so glad for y'all that it went well! :) I know he'll be beyond happy when he gets to go home with you.

[UnwindedDreams]

that's great...give kisses to the little honey for me!:)

[HomerMcvie]

that's great...give kisses to the little honey for me!:)
I sure will. Hope I can make it til Monday or Tuesday! It's really weird without him here....

[UnwindedDreams]

I sure will. Hope I can make it til Monday or Tuesday! It's really weird without him here....
I really do feel so happy for you because I have gone through this too and it's tough. I will light a candle for your little honey at church and I will keep him in my prayers.:)

[SuzeQuze]

I sure will. Hope I can make it til Monday or Tuesday! It's really weird without him here....

I will be happy to hear when he is home with you and happy. Hang in there!

[GODDESS6]

:blob2: YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:blob1: ~

[Raeven Skye]

that's awesome news, and better than expected! yay!!:blob1: :blob2:

[michelle2677]

that is wonderful homer!! maybe this means there is a good prognosis for the long hall as well !! :D still praying for the little guy!!:nod:

[catinthedark]

Ooooh!! I'm SO happy for you! Did you go visit him? If it was me, I'd be sleeping there in the vet's office beside my baby. I'm so glad he came through the surgery well! Hope he gets home soon.

[HomerMcvie]

Ooooh!! I'm SO happy for you! Did you go visit him? If it was me, I'd be sleeping there in the vet's office beside my baby. I'm so glad he came through the surgery well! Hope he gets home soon.
Would that I could! I've got work that I really can't get out of this weekend(and with 4k this past week in vet bills, I literally MUST take the work). I'm not sure they'd let me stay anyway. I tried that, at my local vet, a couple years ago(there was a possibility that Cash "might" have drank some antifreeze, so I took no chances, and he spent a couple nights with an IV flushing his system), and they wouldn't let me spend the night then (I think they left the dogs alone after hours, and obviously couldn't have a non-employee spending the night).
They all know me and Cash so well now, that they probably would let me stay now!

[WelshWitchPMD]

If my BooBoo could have been saved, even at 20, I would have done it.

(

That is what my friend calls her dog even though his real name is Bandit.

I am sorry to hear about your dog Homer. It is not an easy decision to make. My friend just found out a few months ago that Bandit has 3 malignant tumors that are inoperable. On top of that he has diabetes. I am sure that if she could she would go for the operation because as she says 'he is only 11.
I wish you the best of luck with everything and who knows maybe there is something else that can be done.
Now as I read on through this I see that Cash came out of the operation OK. That is great news!

[HomerMcvie]

That is what my friend calls her dog even though his real name is Bandit.

I am sorry to hear about your dog Homer. It is not an easy decision to make. My friend just found out a few months ago that Bandit has 3 malignant tumors that are inoperable. On top of that he has diabetes. I am sure that if she could she would go for the operation because as she says 'he is only 11.
I wish you the best of luck with everything and who knows maybe there is something else that can be done.
Now as I read on through this I see that Cash came out of the operation OK. That is great news!
Thanks. Cash is only 7(8 in Feb), and the chief surgeon referred to him(there were like 6 student vets watching the examination) as GERIATRIC!!! I wanted to slap her! I said, what do you mean, he's geriatric? She asked how old he was, and I said seven. She backpeddled a little, and said, given his relatively small size(30 lbs), that he probably wasn't considered geriatric yet.
You'd better backpeddle! Don't make me come across this examination table! Callin' my baby GERIATRIC!:distress:

I'm really sorry about Bandit. These things are always so hard to accept.

[michelle2677]

^^^??!!! so what's going on? any news on Cash?? :wavey:

[HomerMcvie]

^^^??!!! so what's going on? any news on Cash?? :wavey:
He's still in intensive care. They're going to take him off the morphine in the morning, and try a lesser painkiller. Hopefully, he can come home Monday.:blob2: :] I'm sure he'll be sore for awhile though. They said they'll teach me to give a pain shot.:eek: Not sure I wanna do that, but I guess I will.

The vet student he has watching him is GREAT! She calls me about three times a day, to tell me how he's doing. She was really babying him when I was there.:) I'm so happy that he's got her there, taking care of him.:woohoo:

[michelle2677]

He's still in intensive care. They're going to take him off the morphine in the morning, and try a lesser painkiller. Hopefully, he can come home Monday.:blob2: :] I'm sure he'll be sore for awhile though. They said they'll teach me to give a pain shot.:eek: Not sure I wanna do that, but I guess I will.

The vet student he has watching him is GREAT! She calls me about three times a day, to tell me how he's doing. She was really babying him when I was there.:) I'm so happy that he's got her there, taking care of him.:woohoo:

I'm glad that he is doing o.k. Hopefully when they bring him off the morphine he won't be in much pain and the "lesser" painkillers will work. And I'm glad that she is taking such good care of him. That makes all the difference in the world :D

[catinthedark]

Would that I could! I've got work that I really can't get out of this weekend(and with 4k this past week in vet bills, I literally MUST take the work). I'm not sure they'd let me stay anyway. I tried that, at my local vet, a couple years ago(there was a possibility that Cash "might" have drank some antifreeze, so I took no chances, and he spent a couple nights with an IV flushing his system), and they wouldn't let me spend the night then (I think they left the dogs alone after hours, and obviously couldn't have a non-employee spending the night).
They all know me and Cash so well now, that they probably would let me stay now!

Four grand? Holy crap. Yeah, I can see why you can't beg off work. Cash will understand and appreciate it, I'm sure. :) So glad to hear he came through it well.

[ragandbone]

Well, I missed the beginning of this thread, so I have offered zero support during your crisis, but I want to tell you I am glad your dog is getting better, and that you have good, kind vets taking care of him.

I have had vet bills like the one you are facing, several times so I offer my condolences on that. It sounds like you made the best choice, though. My mother and I have nursed two different cats who who 18 and 21, and we spent thousands on them, only to see them suffer. So, in their cases, I wish we had stopped sooner. It was too hard to let them go, even when I felt they were asking us to.

In your case, if the vet felt that they could remove the cancer, then you and your dog can continue to enjoy each other for a long while, and that will be worth every penny! You made a brave and beautiful choice,and your love for Cash is inspiring.:angel:

[HomerMcvie]

:] :] :] YEAH! They just called, and said he's doing much better, and that I could pick him up tomorrow afternoon.:] :] :]

They took him out of ICU, and he's eating now.
24 hours to wait now...........at least I have to work tonight.

[michelle2677]

wow?! he's already eating?? he's a little trooper isn't he!! awww..I am so happy for you and cash. And I'm glad he's out of ICU. The hard part is hopefully behind you.. Give him lots of slobbery kisses from me :xoxo:

[UnwindedDreams]

:] :] :] YEAH! They just called, and said he's doing much better, and that I could pick him up tomorrow afternoon.:] :] :]

They took him out of ICU, and he's eating now.
24 hours to wait now...........at least I have to work tonight.kisses for your honey from me please...I just took my dog(I mean sweet prince) to the dog run.

[GypsySorcerer]

I am so glad Cash gets to return home! Great news!!!!!

[amber]

:] :] :] YEAH! They just called, and said he's doing much better, and that I could pick him up tomorrow afternoon.:] :] :]

They took him out of ICU, and he's eating now.
24 hours to wait now...........at least I have to work tonight.
Very cool, Homie. :xoxo: I'm so happy for you.

[HomerMcvie]

wow?! he's already eating?? he's a little trooper isn't he!! awww..I am so happy for you and cash. And I'm glad he's out of ICU. The hard part is hopefully behind you.. Give him lots of slobbery kisses from me :xoxo:
Well, "Lara" said she took soft canned food, and mixed in a little water, to make it really mushy, and he was lapping it up.
That's my little piglet! Like father, like son.:lol:

[GateandGarden]

:] :] :] YEAH! They just called, and said he's doing much better, and that I could pick him up tomorrow afternoon.:] :] :]

They took him out of ICU, and he's eating now.
24 hours to wait now...........at least I have to work tonight.That is so wonderful. He is such a strong one. I'm so glad you get to take him home tomorrow. :)

[MoonChilde]

Oh that is Great news!! Hopefully the night and day will fly by for you and soon you will have Cash right at your side where he belongs..Gentle hugs to him from me

[michelle2677]

Well, "Lara" said she took soft canned food, and mixed in a little water, to make it really mushy, and he was lapping it up.
That's my little piglet! Like father, like son.:lol:

*LOL* this is true!! at least he has his appetite!! that really IS a good thing. He could be laying around moping..not eating. that would be bad!! yaaah for cash!!!:blob2: :blob2: :blob1: :blob1:

[macfan 57]

:] :] :] YEAH! They just called, and said he's doing much better, and that I could pick him up tomorrow afternoon.:] :] :]

They took him out of ICU, and he's eating now.
24 hours to wait now...........at least I have to work tonight.

That's great news, David.:blob2: :blob2:

He's eating already? I would have thought that he'd be on a liquid diet. When you get him home tomorrow, give him a hug for me.:angel:

[HomerMcvie]

*LOL* this is true!! at least he has his appetite!! that really IS a good thing. He could be laying around moping..not eating. that would be bad!! yaaah for cash!!!:blob2: :blob2: :blob1: :blob1:
I could be on my death bed, and I'd still be asking, "are you going to eat that?":p

[HomerMcvie]

That's great news, David.:blob2: :blob2:

He's eating already? I would have thought that he'd be on a liquid diet. When you get him home tomorrow, give him a hug for me.:angel:
Well, she said she basically watered it down to mush, then heated it up, with some kind of pork sauce on it. Sound good to me!

The hugs will be-a flowin'.:angel:

[michelle2677]

I could be on my death bed, and I'd still be asking, "are you going to eat that?":p


*LOL* well..first I'd be asking.."have you touched that?" hahah..I have this thing about eating after people...and drinking. I don't even eat after my husband. I'm sure I posted that on my "OCD" thread awhile back. If not..there's another one added in. But I like to eat also!! mmmmm......and no dainty salads either. I'm a meat and potatoes girl!!! and kraft macaroni and cheese-there's just something about that powder *LOL* ;)

[HomerMcvie]

*LOL* well..first I'd be asking.."have you touched that?" hahah..I have this thing about eating after people...and drinking. I don't even eat after my husband. I'm sure I posted that on my "OCD" thread awhile back. If not..there's another one added in. But I like to eat also!! mmmmm......and no dainty salads either. I'm a meat and potatoes girl!!! and kraft macaroni and cheese-there's just something about that powder *LOL* ;)
Not even after your husband??? I was like that, as a child, then outgrew it. I used to have an aunt, who would open a can of pop for you......TAKE a drink:( , then give it to you. I would never drink any of it, and she'd bitch about how "I" had wasted her pop!!!!!!! "Bitch, don't put your lips on my pop, and I'll drink every last drop of it!" Of course I never said that.
I finally got over most of that though...

[Johnny Stew]

That's excellent news about Cash! I'm very happy (and relieved) to hear it.

Give him hugs for me, too! :wavey:

[HomerMcvie]

Well, Cash is home. He slept most of the way home. He acts like he feels okay. He's still swollen, of course. His bottom front teeth do push to the side that they removed the jaw on, so his canine tooth is outside now. I feel so terrible looking at him. He looks pretty good(better than I'd expected, actually), but I feel guilty, like I maimed him(yes, I know I didn't, that I did what I had to do, in order to try and save him). He has to wear a "lampshade" cone for 2-3 weeks, until he's healed enough to remove the stitches(except when I'm right beside him, to make sure he doesn't rip the stitches out).
He came in and drank a BUNCH of water. He's snoozing beside me on the couch now. It's great to have him home.:woohoo:
I sure hope that damned cancer stays gone.

[BTFLCHLD]

. GOOD NEWS!

[catinthedark]

Well, Cash is home. He slept most of the way home. He acts like he feels okay. He's still swollen, of course. His bottom front teeth do push to the side that they removed the jaw on, so his canine tooth is outside now. I feel so terrible looking at him. He looks pretty good(better than I'd expected, actually), but I feel guilty, like I maimed him(yes, I know I didn't, that I did what I had to do, in order to try and save him). He has to wear a "lampshade" cone for 2-3 weeks, until he's healed enough to remove the stitches(except when I'm right beside him, to make sure he doesn't rip the stitches out).
He came in and drank a BUNCH of water. He's snoozing beside me on the couch now. It's great to have him home.:woohoo:
I sure hope that damned cancer stays gone.

Yayayayayayay! I'm so happy for you that he's home. You must be so relieved. And I bet he is, too. He'll probably start healing 10 times faster now that he's with you and feeling secure.

I hope the cancer stays gone, too.

[The Tower]

Well, Cash is home. He slept most of the way home. He acts like he feels okay. He's still swollen, of course. His bottom front teeth do push to the side that they removed the jaw on, so his canine tooth is outside now. I feel so terrible looking at him. He looks pretty good(better than I'd expected, actually), but I feel guilty, like I maimed him(yes, I know I didn't, that I did what I had to do, in order to try and save him). He has to wear a "lampshade" cone for 2-3 weeks, until he's healed enough to remove the stitches(except when I'm right beside him, to make sure he doesn't rip the stitches out).
He came in and drank a BUNCH of water. He's snoozing beside me on the couch now. It's great to have him home.:woohoo:
I sure hope that damned cancer stays gone.
I'm soooooooo happy for you both, Homie....

I have been lurking in this thread for awhile waiting until everything was okay, cuz I can't handle doggie suffering or doggie loss. I'm overjoyed that Cash is okay and is home safely. Give him a :xoxo: for me!

[Johnny Stew]

Well, Cash is home.I'm so happy he's home with you, Dave!

And don't feel guilty about your choice... dogs are very adaptive, and he's going to continue having a very high quality of life now that the cancer has been removed.
Just give him plenty of love and attention, and he'll adjust with no problems. :xoxo:

[MoonChilde]

[QUOTE=HomerMcvie]Well, Cash is home.

Great news..lots of hugs to Cash!

[michelle2677]

Not even after your husband??? I was like that, as a child, then outgrew it. I used to have an aunt, who would open a can of pop for you......TAKE a drink:( , then give it to you. I would never drink any of it, and she'd bitch about how "I" had wasted her pop!!!!!!! "Bitch, don't put your lips on my pop, and I'll drink every last drop of it!" Of course I never said that.
I finally got over most of that though...

Well..I'm also a dental assistant too...so i know what funky stuff migrates in the mouth *LOL* ..so no..not even my husband. But I kiss him..I dunno..go figure *L* I have a lot of strange tendencies tho..:lol:

and I'm so glad cash is home!!! :) I had a dog that had to wear the cone..and they look so pitiful don't they!! *L* but it really is for the best :) And I'm sure he doesnt' look that bad. He was so dang cute in the pic I saw of him....I can't imagine anything that they could have done to him to change that :)

and here ya go-so cash doesn't feel so alone-he can look at this :)
This was right after getting the family jewels cut off..so he was hating life ;)

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a395/Michelle2677/murray%20and%20max/Picture022.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a395/Michelle2677/murray%20and%20max/Picture002.jpg

[HomerMcvie]

I'm soooooooo happy for you both, Homie....

I have been lurking in this thread for awhile waiting until everything was okay, cuz I can't handle doggie suffering or doggie loss. I'm overjoyed that Cash is okay and is home safely. Give him a :xoxo: for me!
Thanks, I just did xoxo! They sent me home with a small container of food that they'd puree'd for him. He just gobbled down every bite of it. I'm sure he'll adjust fine, although the instructions they sent home told me to restrict his exercise for TWO months. That will be impossible! I doubt if I can do that for two weeks, let alone two months! He LIVES to play.:woohoo:

[HomerMcvie]

and I'm so glad cash is home!!! :) I had a dog that had to wear the cone..and they look so pitiful don't they!! *L* but it really is for the best :) And I'm sure he doesnt' look that bad. He was so dang cute in the pic I saw of him....I can't imagine anything that they could have done to him to change that :)

and here ya go-so cash doesn't feel so alone-he can look at this :)
This was right after getting the family jewels cut off..so he was hating life ;)

Yes, they look sooo pitiful! He just stands there, and won't lie down, unless I make him. He had an accident several years ago (tore his side open on some fence wire), and had to wear a cone, and acted exactly the same. He hates the cone! I've got it off of him now, because he's right beside me. I've noticed he doesn't mess with it until he gets up to walk around. It's gonna be a loooong couple of weeks watching him. I'm thinking now that it's cool out, that I'll take him to work with me(leave him in my truck), that way I can go out and check on him every hour. He successfully pulled the cone off several times at the vets, they told me to keep an eye out for it(his head's really small. He can back out of any collar).
Thanks for the good thoughts, guys.:xoxo:

[GypsySorcerer]

So glad to hear that Cash is home! :woohoo: Here's to a speedy recovery....

[macfan 57]

David, it's great to see that Cash is finally back home with you.:blob1: :blob1: My dog had to wear a cone(the vet called it an e-collar) for close to 4 weeks earlier this year. He had a skin infection which didn't heal right away because he kept scratching at it. He adapted to it fairly well, although he didn't exactly like it. I think it was harder on me than on him.:laugh: Hopefully, he'll get it off as soon as possible. Again, it's great to hear that he's home. Enjoy him!:angel:

[GODDESS6]

yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!~ welcome home cash!!!~ & best wishes for a speedy recovery!!!~

[HomerMcvie]

David, it's great to see that Cash is finally back home with you.:blob1: :blob1: My dog had to wear a cone(the vet called it an e-collar) for close to 4 weeks earlier this year. He had a skin infection which didn't heal right away because he kept scratching at it. He adapted to it fairly well, although he didn't exactly like it. I think it was harder on me than on him.:laugh: Hopefully, he'll get it off as soon as possible. Again, it's great to hear that he's home. Enjoy him!:angel:
His surgeon kept calling it a lampshade! I have his old one at home, so I told em I didn't need another one, but he kept trying to scratch at it while we were still there, so I went ahead and bought another one(hell, what's another $10?:( ). He ate two bowls of food last night, so that's obviously a good sign(just not for his waistline).
He drooled alllllll over his side of the bed last night. Oh well. I'm not going to change my sheets every single day, so I think I'll put a big towel on his side tonight, and see if that works.
He's mad now, because I made him put his cone back on...I wonder if it itches, or hurts? I'll bet on itch.
Sorry to keeeep going on about my baby.:o

[Raeven Skye]

His surgeon kept calling it a lampshade! I have his old one at home, so I told em I didn't need another one, but he kept trying to scratch at it while we were still there, so I went ahead and bought another one(hell, what's another $10?:( ). He ate two bowls of food last night, so that's obviously a good sign(just not for his waistline).
He drooled alllllll over his side of the bed last night. Oh well. I'm not going to change my sheets every single day, so I think I'll put a big towel on his side tonight, and see if that works.
He's mad now, because I made him put his cone back on...I wonder if it itches, or hurts? I'll bet on itch.
Sorry to keeeep going on about my baby.:o


aww...i'm so glad he's home and doing so well! i'm sure he hates the cone....nothing's worse than not being able to scratch an itch!

[HomerMcvie]

aww...i'm so glad he's home and doing so well! i'm sure he hates the cone....nothing's worse than not being able to scratch an itch!
Am I the only one, who's back always itches, DEAD CENTER, JUST beyond the reach of your fingers? So annoying....

[SuzeQuze]

Am I the only one, who's back always itches, DEAD CENTER, JUST beyond the reach of your fingers? So annoying....

No, I habitually get this and grab a ruler or a hanger or something! :lol: I'm also glad Cash is home. :woohoo:

[wondergirl9847]

So glad to hear Cash is home and eating and everything!

Unfortunately, I know what you mean about the guilt thing. We put my dog, Candy to sleep earlier this year because she had problems and was pretty old. The guilt consumed me and I cried non-stop for that whole week that we had it done. She's back with us in our living room, in a cedar box. :)

[HomerMcvie]

So glad to hear Cash is home and eating and everything!

Unfortunately, I know what you mean about the guilt thing. We put my dog, Candy to sleep earlier this year because she had problems and was pretty old. The guilt consumed me and I cried non-stop for that whole week that we had it done. She's back with us in our living room, in a cedar box. :)
I hate thinking about that time, but cremation is what I want to do, also. For myself, and him.

[wondergirl9847]

There was no question. I wasn't going to put her in a pet cemetary far away from us (who visits the cemetary that often anyways.). She's home...where she belongs. :)

I hope you don't have to deal with that for a long, long, long time.

[JazmenFlowers]

I'm so glad to hear the good news. You both take care now.

[michelle2677]

Am I the only one, who's back always itches, DEAD CENTER, JUST beyond the reach of your fingers? So annoying....

well....ha...I mean-that's why he's got you around, right? To scratch the places he can't get to??? ;) heeehee..glad he's doing o.k. :)