coughing and wheezing dog

[parsley]

Our old rescue dog has a huge spindle cell tumour on his leg and some on his abdomen and chest. He has started coughing and wheezing, especially at night, so I took him to the vet and got some medication to help him. The vet was very tactful but seems to believe that the cancer may have spread to his lungs. We knew when we took him on that it wouldn't be for long but I wonder if anyone has any idea how quickly it is likely to spread now so that I can prepare the kids? Or is it as long as a piece of string?

Thanks for any help.

 

[mattilda]

Oh how awful for you and him. Sorry I have no idea how long but he will probably let you know when he has had enough. I would tell your children now so that they can have some quality time with him.

 

[Spudlet]

Poor old lad, am so sorry to hear that. I don't know about how much time you could have, but as Mattilda says probably best to start preparing the children now so it won't be such a shock.

 

[MurphysMinder]

Poor old dog and poor you. I lost a bitch with lung cancer, she was just under 5 years old.

In her case we had her pts quite quickly after she was diagnosed, early symptoms were just loss of weight and no energy, she then started breathing quite fast and really had no quality of life (had to be left at home when we went for walks etc) so we made the decision to let her go. I would try and explain things to the children as soon as possible so they have time to try and accept it, and when you feel your lad is no longer enjoying his life that sadly will be the time to do your last kind deed for him.

 

[parsley]

Thanks to all of you for the replies. I am taking him back to the vets on Friday to review the effect of the medicine and I will discuss it properly with the vet and tell the children then.