TLDR: This post explains how we will be supporting our dog through his cancer diagnosis. This is not a pity post, but hopefully one that someone will stumble upon and feel less alone, or maybe even inspired to support their dog in the best way that they can while going through this stage of their dog’s life. This is also not a ‘how to’ guide, nor is it a post that needs to be criticized and picked apart. We are doing what we believe is best for our dog. As anyone would for their own dog.

Arrow; our mascot, our inspiration and our best friend has cancer. To be fully transparent Arrow has insulinoma. A tumor of the pancreas, as well as metastatic growths on the lymph node nearest to his stomach & pancreas. Because of his symptoms we’ve deemed it too risky to operate or even to take a sample of the masses in question. We also wouldn’t be able to afford to go on with medical procedures even if he could handle it. We have no real proof of cancer. It is just highly likely (they’re pretty darn sure) that the growths are cancerous and spreading.

It is no ones fault

When a pet is diagnosed with cancer we have to remember that this is not anyone’s fault. Your dog did not get cancer because of something you did or didn’t do. This is so important.

How we are supporting him

That being said, we have changed a few things in Arrow’s routine to better support him during this time. Every dog and individual is unique so keep this in mind when reading though our process. We’ve also started to dive into researching about his symptoms and the particular cancer he has. Arrow has always been a guide and teacher to us and this situation is no different. Although we’ve only just found out, he has already taught us so much about how we can support his body and mind during this time.

At the moment his energy and spirit have not changed. He is the same as he’s always been, with some very infrequent dizzy spells due to hypoglycaemia which is a symptom of the insulinoma. We obviously want to keep it that way as long as we can. Reducing the frequency of the dizzy spells for as long as possible would be amazing, but we have no expectations, nor do we put that kind of pressure on ourselves or our dog.

To support our best friend through this time we are trying to make sure he’s as happy and healthy as possible in all other aspects of his life. We know that what we’re doing might change as he progresses. We will be keeping a close eye on him and we will change whatever he needs when needed. Until then, this is what we will be doing to support Arrow, his body and mind:

Spending as much time with him as we can while being in the moment!

This should be true regardless of cancer or illness! Our dogs live in the moment each and everyday, they can help us to do the same. Take the time to turn off your phone, laptop or TV and spend some quality time with your dog. They deserve it!

We have 6 months to 1.5 years left with him (give or take). So we are being 100% present with him on our walks, when we play and even when we’re feeding him. Sending him as much love & joy as possible in every moment. Relishing in his company daily.

Making sure he gets enough exercise.

Both physically & mentally. With walks that he can physically handle and play times. He loves to fetch and play tug! We also feed Arrow with interactive toys and games and we still do fun trick training on weekends. Having him use his brain and his body for things that he loves. He may be a dog with cancer, but he is still a dog who has the same needs as every other dog. We just have to make sure we do these things at his level.

Feeding him a fresh food diet.

As many of you know we already fed Arrow a fresh food diet. We haven’t changed too much other than adding more complex carbs (for the hypoglycaemia) and more anti-inflammatory & antioxidant rich foods (like berries, dark leafy greens and phytoplankton). We’ve also started feeding him multiple smaller meals a day to try to help level out his blood sugar levels.

Supportive Supplements

We’ve always given Arrow probiotics. This won’t be changing. We have always rotated his probiotics between the three we have here at Pawse. The only change we’ve made is that now we will be rotating between two of them: Healthy Gut and Fido’s Flora. We think these two will be more beneficial at the moment. We have also continued to add omega 3’s into his diet.

We have started giving him an array of Medicinal mushrooms to help support his immune system. Turkey Tail being one of them! We’ve added these because of their cancer fighting, immune supporting, gut healing and antioxidant properties. The research behind even just Turkey Tail is amazing!

Remedies

To help support his body during this time we’ve decided to give him a few remedies. We will be giving him Adored Beast’s Liver Tonic for the next 30-60 days. Potentially longer since his pancreas might need the support. It helps support the liver, kidneys, gallbladder and pancreas.

We’ve also started giving him CBD for potential pain and inflammation. It has been studied and has been known to have great effects on cancer. Again, we have no expectations from this. We just hope, if he’s in any type of pain, that it helps him be pain free.

Medication

Arrow is on Prednisone (steroids). He is on an anti-inflammatory dose. So it’s quite a low dose. We’re using it for its effect on his blood sugar. It will help to raise his glucose levels. Helping steer clear of the dizzy spells and any other issues that come with the hypoglycaemia. I’m trying to learn even more about how this works and my veterinarian has been truly amazing answering all of my questions. Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, Prednisone also happens to be anti-tumor. Bonus!

A plan

This one is for the whole family. Although we’re relishing every moment we get with him, we’re also prepared for the next steps. This will help us move through what ever happens with ease (or at least more ease than without a plan). We have a plan for when Arrow’s symptoms get worse. We even have a plan for when Arrow decides he is ready to go. Whenever it may happen. He deserves the best and we wanted to make sure we knew our options for his passing. It may not go as we envision it, but we know what can happen and are ready.

Self Care

Our dogs are very important to us, but we have to remember to take care of ourselves too. You are just as important to your dog as he is to you. So make sure you take the time to take care of you too.

Supporting a dog with cancer looks different for everyone & every dog

This is what we are doing for our dog with cancer. What you do with your dog can look completely different. This is what we can do emotionally, physically and monetarily. Every dog is unique and every human experience is unique. Just know that whatever you choose to do, or can do, is the best thing for you and your animal.

Resources

Navigating Cancer In Dogs – What You Need To Know with Julie Ann Lee

Canine Cancer Support – Facebook Group