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phylny

(8,594 posts)
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 06:10 AM Sep 2022

Our Chloe has bladder cancer, which is incurable.

She had one chemotherapy session, I'm not doing it anymore.

She tolerated it very well. What *I* won't tolerate on her behalf is:

1) An entire day spent at the vet oncologist for a 20-minute infusion where she's upset to be away from us. There are no appointments - just drop off and pick up.

2) The office is an hour away - that's a total of four hours in the car for me, two hours for her.

3) Three days of isolation in the crate after each chemo session every three weeks. She can't lick us, share a water bowl with our other dog Blake, or pee and poop in the same area as other animals.

Had I known I might have made a different decision initially. I don't want her to be in pain and will meet with our regular vet to know the signs to look for as we proceed. Right now, Chloe is excited to eat, go on a walk, and see our granddaughter. We had to be sure she didn't lick the baby especially - she likes to give a quick lick on the ear. She's happy by our side and playing with Blake. Except for wanting to go out a little more and multiple pees on walks, you'd never know she had cancer.

Whether Chloe has another day, week, month, or year, we will make that time as happy and comfortable for her as we can.

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Irish_Dem

(58,324 posts)
1. You are doing the right thing.
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 06:13 AM
Sep 2022

I was in the same boat some years back and I let my precious little doggie suffer too long.

I regret it to this day.

phylny

(8,594 posts)
2. I'm sorry - it's so hard to know what the right thing is sometimes.
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 06:17 AM
Sep 2022

I want her to live, but I want her to LIVE! Not sit in the crate for 72 hours not knowing why she's separated from us and Blake.

Thanks for commenting

ShazzieB

(18,756 posts)
9. I agree with Irish Dem.
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 12:18 PM
Sep 2022

It makes perfect sense to me that you want her to be able to enjoy whatever time she has left to the fullest extent possible. I'm sure I would do the same thing if I were in your place. Best of luck to you and to her!

in2herbs

(3,157 posts)
4. Deciding a pet's life is a heavy responsibility. When your pain over the loss subsides and
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 08:44 AM
Sep 2022

the memories accompany smiles and heartfelt love and affection for Chloe you will be grateful for helping to ease her pain.

Rebl2

(14,803 posts)
6. I don't
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 09:34 AM
Sep 2022

know how old Chloe is, but no matter her age, I think you are making the right decision. Let her live her life since she is happy to be around her people and still wanting to play. She will let you know when it’s time to go. Been through this a few times. It’s hard to let go of them, but I can tell you want what is best for her. 🕊

niyad

(120,281 posts)
7. You are doing the correct thing for your beautiful girl. Keep her safe,
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 10:30 AM
Sep 2022

comforted, and loved. Sending vibes for peace and ease for all of you.

Midnight Writer

(23,018 posts)
8. I learned the hard way; experience. Sometimes "hospice care" is best for them.
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 12:04 PM
Sep 2022

When your pet is sick, the natural impulse is to do "everything you can" for them. But your pet may be happier with a lot of your love and, when the time comes, a merciful end.

phylny

(8,594 posts)
10. Thank you all for the kind responses.
Tue Sep 27, 2022, 09:33 PM
Sep 2022

The time might be closer than I thought - I took her out no less than 15 times tonight to pee. She's resting on the bed against my hip with a diaper on in case she feels the need to go during the night. If tomorrow is like tonight, I will assume she is in discomfort/pain.

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