Meesh

My baby Hamlet (9 years old next Thursday) was just diagnosed on Tuesday with lymphoma. The doctor aspirated two of the lymph nodes and we expect lab results tomorrow. But, he told me that due to Hammy's age and the fact that both his neck and back leg lymphs are swollen, I shouldn't get my hopes up that it's anything but cancer. I'm heartbroken. I've had Hammy since he was an 8-week old furball (he's a chow/retriever mix). He's had constant skin allergies throughout his life and I was hoping that the swollen glands were a side affect of the allergies since they flared badly again. He's is great spirits and still acts like a puppy but is somewhat resistant to eat primarily because I think the swollen neck glands are causing some discomfort. I switched him to ground beef, tuna and small amount of rice last night and he gobbled it up. I'm already planning to go the chemo route but I'm also looking into supplementing that with appropriate diet and possibly vitamins/supplements. He already gets 2000mg of Omega-3 for the skin allergies and I'm going to double that based on what I've already read. Any advise/recommendations on things that have worked or haven't worked would be greatly appreciated. I plan on fighting this as long as my Hamlet is willing.

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TJandDante

I am so sorry you are having to go through this. I just went through this with my beloved Dante, who was 8 1/2 years old when he passed away last month.
If you are planning to do the chemo, you MUST make sure he is supplemented to help his immune system and to keep him feeling well. What our holistic vet recommended was the Canine Immune System Support by Standard Brands, Agaricus Bio, and feeding the cancer diet, as well as cottage cheese and flaxseed oil. Hopefully your vet will put your dog on the prednisone as well, as that shrinks those lymph nodes nicely at first as well as keeping the appetite up which is crucial for your dog to get better.
We did not do the chemo route and Dante ate like a horse and was well for 4 months, up until the day before we had to have him put to sleep. But there is no one right way and only you know what is right for you and your dog.
I remember how lost and heartbroken I was when Dante was diagnosed.
I wish you luck and stay here-you will get lots of support and great info on this site.
TJ

Meesh

I just got the call from the vet...the aspirate sample confirmed the lymphoma. I'm crushed! I've already scheduled our appointment with the oncologist at the University of Penn for Feb 9th. Let the fight begin...we plan on winning!

Benpaws

Dear Friend,

I am so sorry to hear that Hammy has lymphoma. Yes, you are beginning quite the journey, but so good that you are seeing an oncologist and you will get the best information and advice on nutrition and supplements which will boost Hamlet's immune system and make him stronger.

You might want to check out this website:http://www.herbal-treatments.com.au/...r_support.html

I sure hope you DO WIN this one!!! There is always HOPE!

BTW, you can give peanut butter to dogs with cancer but, just use all-natural peanut butter or organic to avoid excess salt, sugar and preservatives.

My prayers go out to you and Hamlet. Everyone here understands your feelings of complete disbelief.

Hugs to Hamlet and GOOD LUCK!

Blessings,
Joanne & Shadow