Quote Originally Posted by loveallfurryfriends
My parents just returned from oncology and surgery consults. JJ's surgery is scheduled for tomorrow morning. Surgeon told my parents that even though JJ's eye will have to be removed, he believes that this will not affect his quality of life. He might look a little funny, but no one cares about the way he looks. After his surgery he will need chemo & radiation. The oncologist says that even after all of this, JJ's life expectancy is still only about 6-12 months. Luckily, the cancer has not spread anywhere else yet & other than the cancer he is in amazingly good health for his age. My dad and step-mom's main concern is his quality of life, and as long as it is maintained, there is nothing that will not be done for him. Thank you all for your prayers & good thoughts. I told my step-mom about PT, and how wonderful everyone here is. She started crying, and wanted you all to know how grateful she is. Please keep the prayers coming for JJ. Thank you all so much.
Chemo is well tolerated in puppy dogs with the appropriate supportive drugs. Most Vet Oncologists will prescrbe the appropriate drugs to prevent nausea. A lot depends on the particular Chemo drugs used, some are mild while others do need strong anti-nausea drugs. Over all Chemo side effects are much milder in dogs and should not effect its quality of life. Per radiation it may or may not affect the mouth/nose, depending on the area involved. Again the Oncologist can explain to your parents what to expect. Have them ask the Oncologist about other things they should be alert for (e.g. secondary bacterial infections). The more they learn, the fewer are the surprises. GL.