I have a Doberman that I love dearly. I’ve had her for 7 years. She’s my first dog I got as an “adult”. She’s been with me through major life events.. my divorce , moving cross country for new career, get remarried, selling and buying new house etc. I have two children but I consider her my third. She’s family. She’s my baby.
A few days ago, her bottom lip was swollen. The inside of her mouth, under her tongue, also extremely swollen. I was thinking bee sting or maybe an infection. Called the vet and got an appointment for a few days later(today).
Vet took one look and told us it was cancer. He said he had a cancellation for a surgery today so he could get her in for a biopsy today. So me and my husband left. As I was in car line this afternoon picking up my children from their school I get a call from the vet. He got the X-rays and radiology was able to look at them right away, the tumors and cancer has already spread through her lungs and body. There is no reason for a biopsy. She is going to die. Vet stated we could go the biopsy/chemo/radiation route but we would be pushing her life expectancy for maybe a few more months, but that’s it.
We all agreed to skip the biopsy and just do some basic pain management and bring her back when she’s ready to pass. I can’t stop crying. I’m currently pregnant as well and I can’t even imagine my baby not meeting my “puppy”. I feel absolutely heartbroken. My husband is picking her up right now from the vet and I couldn’t even walk in because I can’t get myself together. Knowing that my dog’s death is coming soon is absolutely devastating. I just don’t want her to be in any pain. I’m terrified I’m going to hold onto her longer than I should and cause her to be in so much pain.
How has anyone handled knowing their beloved pet was going to die soon, how did you get through the grief and guilt. I feel like I should have somehow caught this sooner and prevented it. It’s eating me up.