Update on WonderDog's Cancer and Chemo Treatments

[Michele, Biscuit & Mo]

It feels like it’s been a year since I last posted on Penny’s progress with the mast cell cancer.  It’s only been a few weeks, but taking care of WonderDog’s treatment has really taken a lot of time.

 

Penny continues to do well and, depending on which day she is in her “chemo cycle,” she can feel great or wiped out.  She’s on the combination of chemo (vinblastine), Palladia, and steroids.

 

On her fourth weekly visit, her blood cell count was dramatically decreased so no chemo for her for that week.  We are now on an “every other week” schedule, and the chemo has been increased slightly.   The danger we are looking for is infection, which could set in between days 7-10 of the cycle.  Fever, dehydration, etc.  But she’s a tough cookie.

 

She continues to experience full-on joy when going to see Dr. Hillers, the oncologist and can’t wait to get in the office door. That tells you how fantastic they are.  She gets loved up by everyone from the receptionist to the technicians and the doctor.  Dr. Hillers found out that Penny can dance for her treat, and it’s a regular part of her treatment now.  It’s even listed on her health report as how well she did “dancing” that particular week.  J

 

Biscuit continues to be a joyful companion, and they love to wrestle with each other for hours.  Penny lays on her back and Biscuit just goes for it.  It’s hilarious.  I’ll have to write a post very soon on Biscuit – she was the best decision we ever made, getting a second doodle.  Well, maybe the SECOND best decision…. Penny was our best ever.  J

 

I’ll attach two photos of WonderDog with Dr. Hillers – dancing, and posing.

 

Continuing to keep our fingers crossed, and enjoying every day together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

I am so glad you posted this, I have been thinking of you all and wondering how she has been doing. So glad to see her dancing!!!

[Sally]

strength + silliness = the best way to get through life. Looks like Both Penny and her doc have a great deal of both....Well i'd say really everyone involved....Thanks for the update!!!

 

[Bonnie and Kona]

Thanks so much for posting this report for us and for the photos! Your oncologist sounds wonderful. Penny is a champ. Yea for Biscuit too. Always hoping for the best for Miss Penny.

[Ellen, Brûlée, and Tira]

So happy to get the good report.  I know it's not wonderful to have to travel this road.  But you are wonderful to travel it with Penny in such a positive and supportive  way!  Keep up the super work!

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

I "ditto" everything already said!  So happy to hear an update.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

First thought:  Penny is a marvelous example of what joy doodles have in them.

Second thought: Your oncologist is a saint.

Thanks for the update; we are thinking of you :) :) :) :)

And happy Biscuit was the 2nd best decision ever :) :) :) :)  I would be willing to bet she really helps Penny on her off days.

[Linda and Murphy]

Penney, you look wonderful!  I am so glad you found such a great doctor.  She looks pretty cool...but does she dance as well as you?

Your Pal,

Murphy

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

May I have the next dance?    :)

Very nice to hear from you Michelle and Penney looks lovely! Wonderdog, you Rock!

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

What wonderful news that she is doing so well and the pictures say it all!!!