What a lucky pup Tesoro is to have such a caring, thoughtful mom like you Anna Lisa, though I'm sure you would say that you are the lucky oneWhat a very special dog he is and so, so valiant to have faced his illness with such courage.
Cancer treatment is so very unpleasant, both for humans and for animals. As has been said, dogs don't understand that their discomfort may only be temporary. And as hard as we try, it is even more difficult to allay their fears and apprehensions; it breaks our hearts to see them afraid and confused. The decision to stop or to continue the chemo is a very difficult one to make and I think that a long talk with your vet will do a lot to help you sort out your feelings. If she/he feels that there is hope for an encouraging prognosis, that for me would be an important consideration in favor of continuing.
Even humans, who have the ability to reason and comprehend what's happening to them, often become discouraged with the physical and emotional ramifications of chemo., often feeling worse before feeling better. I'm going through that right now with my Dad, a very strong. determined and positive person. Still, the after effects of the chemo often leave him feeling weak and discouraged. But after many rough days, he is finally turning the corner and is beginning to really enjoy life once more.
In the end, if it means that person, or animal, would enjoy a decent quality of life, the company of family, continuing treatment would be something I would encourage, provided the treatment can be administered without unduly stressing or frightening him. I have known of several dogs and cats that while diagnosed at a major medical center, have been able to carry out their pet's chemo treatment at a local vet's office. I think that would be a lot less stressful for Tesoro and for you. I was so happy to read this morning that Tesoro was up and about and enjoying his day
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