Any advise for a yorkie-maltese with malignant cancer?

Question

My grandmother has this yorkie-maltese, and she loves him dearly. He’s been recently diagnosed with malignant cancer on his foot. Is there anyone out there that’s been in a similar situation?

Answer 1

Sorry to hear this. I haven't personally been in the situation (tho I'm sure I will at some point in my pet-owning career), but have seen many people who have pets with cancer. I always say, the best way to help people deal is to make sure they know they have lots of sympathy and support and, perhaps more importantly, to make sure they are fully aware of what the situation involves, the possible options (treatment?) and the prognosis. Not understanding exactly what's going on can make things so much more distressing.

If this cancer cannot be treated and the time comes to put th doggy to sleep, see if you can get your grandmother to understand what a kindness this is, so she doesn't feel mean - there is no reason to. As an older lady, there is a chance your gran may have seen people suffering from cancer. This may help her understand what a kind option euthanasia is - somethin sadly not available to suffering humans.

Good luck, I do hope the cancer is treatable, but if not, remember you don't have to do ALL the support, there are people to help you help your grandmother too.

Best wishes,
Chalice

Answer 2

Your vet should have immediately recommended different options for you, as the cancer is malignant. Most likely would seem to be to amputate the foot. Dogs have very little trouble getting along with 3 feet-but the best alternative would be surgery to remove the tumor-however, none but the very wealthy can usually afford this, and amputation is much better than the other alternative (euthanasia).

Answer 3

A couple of years ago a Labrador Retriever client at the groom shop was diagnosed with a malignancy on his hind leg. The vet opted for amputation.
Dogs are amazing. He was up the next morning with the girls responsible for his post-op care and insisted on going outside to relieve himself.
Within two days, he went home with his owner and he still comes in for regular grooming. He also, still climbs in the tub on his own. He was six at the time of the operation.
Unless your grandmother's baby is very old, she might want to talk to the vet again.

Answer 4

My dog had the same thing only on the bridge of it's nose. Had to have him put down after it went through the palette. Worst thing I ever had to watch, took a while. Depending on the dog's age either get the foot taken off or put the dog down.