Pathology is more of an inexact science than any of us probably knew, but what we have learned by doing advanced testing is that Maize probably has histiocytic sarcoma. We met with the specialist this morning to discuss two things:
1. Benefits/Burdens of treatment with CCNU (chemotherapy);
2. End-of-life care.
RE: #1 -- we are going to treat her with CCNU. She is unlikely to have dangerous side effects, it will likely extend her life, it has the potential to improve quality of life, and it is not invasive -- it is an oral medication given at home. When we consider the benefits, we (Dear Husband and I) believe that they are greater than the known burdens -- at this time.
RE: #2 -- the specialist shared that he does not have any great tools to manage end-of-life symptoms. This is not unexpected -- euthanasia is end-of-life care for pets. Well, I know there has to be a middle road between suffering and euthanasia so I will keep working on that -- we don't need it now but we will, and I want to be prepared.
Mrs. Maize is not yet ready to give up her position as Chief of the Fun Police, and so we will do what we can to delay her retirement. Our goal is to keep her on the job for as long as she is happy to be here -- let's hope it is a long time...
Ditto Mary Ann :D
ReplyDeleteThese words make me sooo sad... But I am sooo happy that Mrs.Maize has been with us for soooo long!
ReplyDeleteMay her barking continue -
So sorry about Maize. She is so lucky to have owners that are going to put her well-being at the forefront. I used to be an assistant at an emergency vet clinic and more than once saw owners put their animals through tremendous and prolonged suffering because the owner cared more about keeping their pet with them than they did about the suffering of their pet. I wish more owners were like you - balancing treatment with quality of life for the best outcome possible for the animal, not for the owner. Much positive thoughts I'm sending to you and your family.
ReplyDelete