chemo for dogs?

[mcubed45]

anyone know what the typical treatment is like for dogs? our sheltie was recently dx'd with cancer of the lymph nodes. i wasn't there when they talked to the vet so i don't have too many details but they're giving her about 2 months if she doesn't start chemo. family hasn't decided what to do yet.. anyone have any experience with chemo therapy for dogs? i'm just wondering how hard it's gonna be on her if we decide to go ahead. she's always had a lot of health problems and has already been through a lot... plus they're saying that even with the chemo there's a pretty decent chance of a relapse later on.

any info would be greatly appreciated. TIA!

[RN1989]

As the wife of a vet I can tell you that animal healthcare is the same and sometimes even better than human healthcare. The only difference is people's ability to pay since too few people get insurance for their pets.

If you can afford it then I recommend that you see a oncologist. Your vet should offer you a referral to the closest specialty center. If you can't afford the specialist, discuss options with your vet. Many vets will get the required info to do procedures/treatments that they don't normally do if the client is willing to agree, knowing that the vet isn't board certified in that specialty.

Chemo in dogs is like chemo in people - a crap shoot. My family drove 3 hrs one way for lots of appts to get chemo for our dog. She received antiemetics and pain meds as needed, just like people. It did not cure her but it did give her some extra time. Of course we all looked at quality of life issues and made the decision to euthanize when we saw that the treatments were no longer making her feel better.

If you don't have insurance for your pet, which I wholeheartedly recommend, you can inquire about services such as Care Credit. It is a line of credit to pay for vet bills. There are several companies that do this now to give people more options for care.

[me5115]

I went to vet assistant school and worked at a vet clinic for a year prior to nursing school. I currently work at an out pt. cancer center. My personal experience with pets with chronic ilnesses is not good. I have seen very sick dogs with peritinitis just moaning in pain. Its soooo hard to see pets go through that, and they dont understand why. They look up at you with these sad eyes.

I could never imagine giving a dog chemo. Its hard enough for humans to get through. Sometimes quality of life out ways quantity, I would just enjoy the time you have left with your pet, and be comforted that they passed with dignety.

But it is your decision, You'll have to feel comfortable with.

Good Luck....

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I am so sorry for your poor dog and your family. However, we can't give people medical advice and it sure wouldn't be in your dog's best interest to get doggie medical advice from us. Take care.