Monday, August 19, 2024

Cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets

I saw a thing on the internet recently, a person bragging about having had professional photographs taken of their dog. The punchline was showing the photographs, which were x-rays. That's what I did with Della today, and to cut to the chase, the result was a possible diagnosis of bone cancer. 

We stopped at McDonalds on the way home and then at a park where Della had a couple cheeseburgers, I had a good cry, and we shared some chicken nuggets. 

We came home without deciding whether to send the x-rays to a radiologist for an expert opinion, or to a surgeon, or to no one. At this point I'm just paralyzed by fear and dread because I don't see much chance for a happy outcome here, and I can't stand the thought of the more likely outcome.


Walking back in with a concerned look on her face after the first round of x-rays.

Enjoying some very tasty treats while waiting for the vet.


Awaiting sedation for the second round of x-rays for better pictures.

Mutual comforting

The cheeseburgers disappeared so fast I didn't really get a picture.





9 comments:

Anonymous said...

This hits home for me. We lost Branigan to osteosarcoma at age 9. He was so stoic we really had no signs until it was so advanced there was no reasonable treatment option. The large dog dilemma. I feel for you.

Anonymous said...

Well F**k. Was she having symptoms? It's unthinkable.

Anonymous said...

Della was a pregnant stray who, against all odds, delivered and raised 12 beautiful healthy Great Dane pups. She’s a powerhouse, and here’s hoping she’ll surprise us all again now. I feel your fear, sadness and uncertainty. My heart goes out to all of you.

Risa said...

Always get a second opinion. We are thinking of you.

Anonymous said...

Brent, Della is such a pretty dog with what looks to be a great personality. My prayers are with you and with Della as you go through this together. I know I am going through hell in this place and with pain and uncertainty and actually misery each day. The time will wake up until the time I go to sleep.

Cynthia Maxwell Curtin said...

I don't usually swear but I did today. I am so sorry.....hugs

Veronica said...

Im sorry. Normally I'm meh on radiation and chemo for dogs. But both my neighbor and a cousin have had large breed dogs with bone cancer who have survived 2-3 years so far after amputation and chemo/radiation. I've never had a dog with a cancer that has even decent potential outcomes.
But I would consider treatment for a dog depending on where the bone cancer is located.

Rachel said...

This is heartbreaking. Hoping for a better outcome.

Anonymous said...

Oh so sorry, Brent! But you've given her the sweetest life, as you have with so many others. One of our sweet babies came from your rescue! My ❤️ goes out to you!