highly malignant retroperitoneal sarcoma

We're devastated to find, by accident, that our Grover has a malignant mass. He underwent emergency surgery on Christmas Eve for what they thought could be an intestinal blockage....he also suffers from IBD. There was no blockage, just grass and leaves but they had an unexpected find of a mass up by his adrenals. Biopsy shows that it's a highly malignant retroperitoneal sarcoma, which is an aggressive tumor with a high rate of metastasis.

So many meds, so much shock.....I just was wondering if anyone else has been dealt this with their beloved babies? Any advice would be appreciated.

I'm taking one day at a time, but don't know what to think. Are treatments worth the suffering he'd go through? Are there other natural things we can try?

Right now, I just need to get him to eat. He doesn't want food. He's recovering from pneumonia, as well. I feel unprepared and not sure what the best course of action, if any is the best.

We have a follow-up for suture removal with his internal med doctor on Jan 9. What can I be doing in the meantime besides supporting and loving him?

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Permalink Reply by Mary, Scrappy, Sully and Olive on December 30, 2017 at 6:09am

My heart hurts for you also. I know the exact feeling. You know it's coming, but try not to dwell on it. It was hard before this, but we feel fortunate that we know about the mass and can really take each day as it comes.....being a gift with them. Thank you for the advice. Now that he's home, it's a bit easier to deal with. I was beside myself thinking he would pass at the hospital. He's a very nervous dog, never has been left alone a day in his life...at least with his other doodle sister with him when we go out. I prayed for a miracle, but maybe the miracle is that he came home to be with us. He's relaxed and comfortable and will be spoiled rotten.

Permalink Reply by Stacy on December 30, 2017 at 9:55am

It's definitely better when they're at home. I was really unhappy when Ava had to stay at the vet for 2 nights. Having her home and loving on her is the best thing for everyone. I hope that it's the same for you and Grover.

Permalink Reply by Jane, Guinness and Murphy on December 30, 2017 at 5:22am

I have no words of advice, but it sounds like you are working with some great Doctors, and I just want to say that I'm so sorry you are both having to go through all of this.

Permalink Reply by Mary, Scrappy, Sully and Olive on December 30, 2017 at 6:11am

thank you. I know it's never easy for any of us with these furry balls of love. It helps to know others have felt the pain and grief...It makes me feel less alone.

Permalink Reply by Mary, Scrappy, Sully and Olive on January 29, 2018 at 4:47pm

Just wanted to update on Grover. He declined rapidly and we let him go on Saturday afternoon. He told me it was time. It was the hardest thing I've ever done in my life.....but the right thing. The tumor had grown double in size just since Christmas Eve. He was having difficulty breathing and bleeding from within the mass, they think.....he was very anemic. They offered transfusions and more steroids to perk him up, but all would have prolonged his suffering. I couldn't be selfish. He's been there for me for almost 10 years, though thick and thin and has surely earned a much deserved peaceful, pain free rest :(

If you're still reading this.....please hug your doodle extra tight tonight, in memory of my special big man.

Permalink Reply by Wendy and Myla on January 29, 2018 at 7:07pm

I am so sorry that you had to make the hardest decision ever but I know that Grover is a very lucky doodle because you loved him enough to put his needs first. I know you are heartbroken and I hope that the beautiful memories you have of the least 10 years will make your heart smile soon! I am going to hug my Myla right now and will whisper Grovers name in her ear! Hugs to you!

Permalink Reply by Laurie, Fudge, and Vern on February 4, 2018 at 6:41am

Mary, I am just now reading about Grover. I am so very sorry for your loss. I think all our dogs want is to feel safe and loved and you gave that to Grover his whole life. Hugs to you!!

Permalink Reply by F, Calla & Luca on January 29, 2018 at 4:56pm

I am very sorry to hear about Grover but I have no doubt what you did was best for him. Please remember all the good years and take comfort from that.

Permalink Reply by Mary, Scrappy, Sully and Olive on January 29, 2018 at 6:00pm

thanks

Permalink Reply by Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle on January 29, 2018 at 5:33pm