An Update on Bailey–and a Special Anniversary!
Four years ago today, Bailey had surgery to remove her left anal gland and 2 sub lumbar lymph nodes because of cancer.
Snoozing on the Sofa!
Yesterday, we had our monthly check up with Bailey’s dogtor, Dr. B. We’ve been doing a monthly check up for four years, just waiting for the cancer to come back. I don’t want to jinx it by actually saying that Bailey is in remission–but it sure looks that way to me!!
We now are dealing with the little illnesses that come with old age.
- Bailey already had arthritis in her back legs, it’s now spread to her left front leg.
- Her diabetes is under control, but I think it’s affecting her sense of smell (Dr. B. confirms this possibility). I find that I need to nuke her food more often in order to get her to eat–her sniffer is not picking up on the aroma.
- She’s down to 18.4 pounds–which is actually good. At her heaviest, she’s hit 21 pounds. For her size, she probably should be 17. Dr. B. says the weight loss is probably related to the diabetes, but not to worry because it’s leveled off.
I have so many things to be thankful for. A wonderful dogtor and vet clinic where Bailey gets great care and I get support and empathy. My family and good friends whose eyes don’t glaze over when I mention Bailey’s health for the gazillionth time. And time with my pooch–4 years so far, instead of only 6 months.
Oh, and I’ve got all my Christmas decorations up, lights lit, and presents wrapped. (It’s been a busy weekend!)
Life is good!
I am very encouraged by your post. My 10-year-old miniature poodle had the same surgery as Bailey did a week ago to remove a tumor from his anal sac and two abdominal lymph nodes. He’s doing great after his surgery, but I don’t think I want to put him through the pain of radiation therapy. I will allow him to have chemo treatments in January. Just wondered if you ended up giving your dog chemo treatments and what made you decide against radiation therapy. So happy to hear that your dog is alive and well so many months after the surgery.
Amanda, Bailey and I will keep you and your Poodle boy in our prayers! Bailey and I have been so incredibly blessed to have these extra years when all we were promised were a few months! Our holiday wish for you is a long, happy, and healthy life with your pooch!
Please keep us posted on how you guys are doing.