Shadow 11/11/2000 to 17/01/2008
Shadow's chemo seemed initially to be successful. His glands were reducing. He went into the vets for a second chemo a week after the first, but after testing his white blood count we were told it was too low for them to be able to give him the chemo. The vet was not too concerned, and said he would just have the chemo fortnightly. He had his second treatment, and 10 days later, on the evening of 16th January, we realised that his glands were up again. They were very enlarged.
We knew that this was not good news, so the next morning no-one went to school or work. We phoned the vet, and he confirmed our thinking. He did not recommend a different protocol, because Shadow has had so much chemo that his system was likely to be overwhelmed if we wanted to give him more. He also explained that Shadow could rapidly become ill, as the glands in his chest will also be enlarged, and when they begin to press on his throat he would start to feel ill.
So, we made the decision to give him a really fab day, and then ensure that he suffered no more. This involved taking him out for a walk with the people who often walk him, with 4 other dogs that they were walking. This was a special treat for him as kennel cough is in the area, so we have been not been taking him out, being worried about him catching it. We gave him lots of treats - and given that he was on steroids, his appetite was pretty pumped up, so he wolfed down loads. he also had cuddles galore, and was let onto our bed for a romp that he was thrilled by. The camera was used until the battery died, and visitors popped in to give him a last cuddle.
Then we took him to the vet, where the vet that has seen us through this took us through his final treatment. We stroked, hugged and cuddled him whilst he slipped unconscious, and until the vet confirmed that he had gone, and then we were left along to cuddle, kiss and stroke him some more.
Family have lost two dogs this year, suddenly, and scarily. One died unexpectedly and they did not have the chance to say good-bye at all, and the other was so ill she was barely moving when she was put down. I think in comparison Shadow had a good end. We had to chance to enjoy a great day with him, a day tinged with sadness, but a day he thoroughly enjoyed.
2 comments:
To Shadow's family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You made Shadow's last day a very happy one for him, but loss is still hard to handle. Thank you for sharing your story through your blog. I am sad to know about Shadow's passing to Rainbows Bridge, but I like to think that my dog Ozzie was there to greet him upon arrival to the next level of spiritual life. Take good care. From your internet friend, Kay (owner of Ozzie who passed from lymphosarcoma in July of 2007)
Shadow I loved you with all of my heart. I am glad you no longer have to go through chemotherapy, and hope you are having the time of your life up there eating and running around - although I'm sure you haven't forgotten us.To my friend and my shadow, farewell, I will love you always.
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