April
2012
ONE MONTH POST AMPUTATION2
I can’t believe it has been one month already. Bailey is doing well so far. He still has some issues with balance and doesn’t play as much. He loved to play tug-a-war and fetch, but has not since his surgery. Today was his first day that he played a little, but his attention span was only for a few minutes. I don’t think I can entirely blame that on the amputation, he is after all a few months away from his 18th birthday. I keep my fingers crossed we will make it to 18, but for now short terms goals.
The second round of chemo is a week from today; we get blood work on Thursday to make sure we can do chemo. Depending on this round we will determine if we proceed with chemo again. The doc is going to give him the anti-nausea medication right away, I believe, with the chemo and right after. After chemo goal number 2 is my daughter’s 6th birthday; she and I have talked about how he might not be around for her birthday but I think will be; I guess his blood work will let us know a little more.
I am still confused about how they can tell if and how badly the cancer has spread. It is just so scary to think about this disease inside his body that is just waiting to explode. I figured by 18 he would just go to sleep one night and that would be it, but now we have cancer. I have to tell you if cancer was not an issue, I truly think Bailey would have made his 20th, if not, 21st birthday. All tests have shown all organs look good and he still looks like an average aged dog.
I’m glad to hear Bailey is doing better. My dog, Max, had his left front leg amputated when he was a little over 8 years of age. It took Max a good 4.5 weeks before he was back to his “normal” self. That included playing with his younger sister, running, just being a dog. Each dog is different, so try not to stress too much if Bailey isn’t doing everything he was prior to the amp. I have a feeling you’re right, and that maybe it has more to do with his age, than the amp. Take each day as it comes, and let Bailey show you the way. He’s a very brave boy, and I’m glad to hear he’s feeling so much better.
Happy 1 month ampuversary Bailey!!! He does look like a baby labrador and not anywhere near almost 18 years old! That is amazing!
Sending lots of positive thoughts and prayers for many many many more ampuversaries! I hope your mommy is planning a HUGE 18th Birthday Pawty!!!
Hugs and chocolate labby kisses,
Ellen & Charley