I am humbled when a loyal listener like Pam turns to me as her guide in a difficult time. I wish I could give her a rosier outlook, but having lived through bone cancer with my darling Rottweiler Yogibear at only 6 years old, I know how bleak and heart breaking the situation is.
Dear Tracie,
I listen to you every Saturday. I’ve even spoken to you once or twice. But now I’ve got a huge problem. My ten year old Golden was diagnosed yesterday with Osteosarcoma after bringing him to the vet because he was limping for a few days. We thought he had slipped on the ice. Can you tell me where I can find information on your website abut how to get treatment and how to decide what treatment to get? My vet is Pam Mox in Manorville but she is not a cancer specialist. Do you know of any? Please help. As you can see from my email address, Max is my boy. I want to do what is best for him and it looks like we have to do something quickly. He is limping badly.
I trust your judgment and all the guests you have on your show. Is there anyone that can help me and Max? Thank you.
Sincerely, Pam
I replied to Pam immediately:
I am so sorry to hear about Max – what devastating news. I’m putting your email ahead of all the others I have to answer so you can get right on top of deciding how to treat his illness. Dr. Gerry Post is a really excellent oncologist and compassionate – he was in Westchester but now seems to be at a very caring specialty hospital in Westbury, which is lucky geographically for you. The number is 516-420-000 and they are open 7 days, 24 hours. Tell Dr. Post that I sent you. I’m afraid that you will find that the only treatment for Max’s bone cancer is amputation – which Gerry has done successfully on many dogs and gained them a longer life with quality – but it depends on how far advanced Max’s cancer is, which leg is affected (if a front leg, which is the usual, then amputation is often really well tolerated if the dog is not overweight and is fit).
These are hard decisions to make and if you don’t have pet insurance, maybe not affordable.
No matter what you decide to do, a good investment is Dr Alice Villalobos’ book linked on her page on my website – it helps you understand all the medical terminology, the options, and how to give Max the best possible care from now until the end. “Canine and Feline Geriatric Oncology” sounds like the textbook it is, but it is of tremendous help to the average person suffering through this difficult time.
My heart goes out to your family and Max – feel free to get back in touch by email or on the air next Saturday if you need help deciding or deciphering what to do next.
Tracie
