The Long Term

[Applebear]

Well, as some know, I went through a rough patch with my [15 yo yorkie/pom] Knarly not real long ago. He's actually been doing pretty good. He's been eating well and even playing. But I knew it wouldn't last forever and he once again is showing signs of a infection in his mouth. He is still eating, but I can smell it and today he drooled all over his front leg.

Before, I wouldn't risk surgery because of his heart. And if you saw how happy and alive he was all the rest of the time, you would understand why I hesitate. It's not often he relapses this fast. I see him come back with antibiotics and think why should I risk loosing him permanently to surgery, when the bad days are less than the good ones. But regardless, I know time is really getting short for him...I suspect he may have cancer as well [it feels like there is a small lump around his ribs, not to mention the large lump on his toosh that vet thinks is a cyst...this lump is not soft and gooshy like that lump].

I am thinking about when I call the vet tomorrow, if I should ask about just doing the surgery to pull some teeth...and try to look at it as if it doesn't work and he passes, at least it would be in his sleep and peaceful. And if it works, hopefully have a little bit longer with him. I don't know if what I am saying is making any sense...but I do know I can not leave him in this condition.

I feel torn every which direction I look at taking.

 

[Whisper]

This is something only you can decide. Either way, you're only trying to do right by him, and that's what's most important.
I'm so sorry you're being faced with this decision. It is never easy. I don't know you well, but I'm sending you (((hugs))) regardless. <3

 

[Applebear]

Thanks Whisper, I appreciate it. I am waiting for vet to call back to discuss options.

 

[Applebear]

I had to call the vet back today because they didn't return my call yesterday. She had me bring him in and she felt the med route was the best. She gave me some guidelines to follow on quality of life, things to look for that would tell me it's time to let him go.

I suppose the only good sign I am seeing is he is wanting to eat...his mouth is just in a lot of pain so it's hard. He did eat some meat scraps last night though, I can't get him to eat anything I grind or water down into a liquid mush.

He cried out a couple times when I picked him up to take outside...this is new, so I don't know, next few days are going to tell me a lot.

Anyhow, I may be just talking to myself but it helps to get some of my thoughts out.

 

[*blackrose]

(((hugs)))

It's never easy when they get older and have health complications. Just go with your gut and enjoy what time you have with him.

 

[Whisper]

More ((((hugs))))
As long as you're open to the painful decision (which it sounds like you are, as devastating as it is), you'll know when it's time, or he will tell you.
It sounds like you're making him as comfortable as possible, and I'm glad you're posting here.