As most of you know by now, Dixie hasn't been doing very well over the past couple of weeks. Her front leg is very swollen and there is now some swelling in both of her back legs. Also, her eyes have been draining for several weeks, but more in the last week. She also has been coughing and breathing hard from time-to-time. We talked about the understanding that if cancer returns there is really nothing else that can be done to make her well and that we would continue to try to keep her comfortable and happy. Something Jennifer said yesterday sparked hope that maybe she has an infection, which could maybe be treated, so I called the vet this morning and we just got back from there.
Dixie has a fever (104), which is high for a dog and higher than an infection would indicate. We believe that the cancer has, in fact, spread to other parts of her body and that it's just a matter of time before she gets very sick. She also has lost 5 pounds since October. The vet sees no indication of an infection and says that antibiotic treatment would be a waste of money. Steroids might help with the pain and swelling, said the vet, but might make the cancer worse at her stage.
HOWEVER, Dixie is still eating and drinking, moving, getting up (though slowly), wagging her tail, responding to our talk, "using the bathroom" normally, etc. Like all of us, she seems to have her ups and downs, good days and bad days.
So, the vet upped the dosage of Rimadyl, gave her anti-diarrhea medication, and ointment for her eyes...to make them less red and perhaps remedy some of the drainage.
Bob calls this stage "hospice" for Dixie as we keep her as comfortable and happy as possible.
We're thinking that the timing could be a lot better...as the vet suggests that this downward spiral could be eminent. Bob made note of the holiday schedule at the vet.
All of this is to keep you informed and sensitive to our situation with regard to the holiday season. We have a trip to Leroy and Partha's (Beaufort, NC) for New Years. We will try to keep everybody posted as things change.
Thank you for the love you ALL feel and show for Dixie Belle! She is SUCH a good dog!
3 comments:
Sorry to hear the news about Dixie. We may have to make a k9 "hospice" wing. Zeke took a turn for the worse last night. He's still eating but you know that dog loves food above all. He's panting, labored breathing and not getting around very well. He bounced back last week so we'll see what happens. Hugs to y'all and Dixie!
Anonymous is Jodi :)
Thank you, Jodi! I'm so sorry about Zeke too. We'll all get through this together...it is hard though as we all know.
PS...I knew who "anonymous" was!
Love y'all!
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