Update on Sheridan

[Greylyn58]

Sheridan and I saw his new Vet on Thursday April 24 and for the most part it was a good visit. Everyone at this new Vet office just gushed over my boy, telling me what a sweety he is. (Something I already knew-Sheridan loves everybody). I was also told that he looked really good for a 12 year old dog. I give the credit for that to his wonderful breeder. Also his father and grandfather were champion show dogs. His grandfather even won Best in Breed at the Westminster Dog Show in 1996.

I had to leave him for 2 hours while Dr. McFadden(his new Vet and a very nice lady) ran some tests just to make sure the cancer had not spread beyond his mouth. She noticed a lymph-node on his neck near the tumor site was a bit swollen, so she did a needle aspiration to check the fluid inside(I received the results on Friday and everything was fine). She also checked his lungs, abdomen, and drew some blood-all results came back normal and healthy. ***Big Sigh of Relief*** However...

She did tell me due to the type of oral cancer he had, it would be necessary to remove the front part of his mouth-which means he will lose his lower canines and his little front teeth. Also his lower jaw would be shorter. He will look different, but once this is done the cancer would be all gone and after he is healed he can go back to doing all the things he loves to do...playing fetch, catching balls, and just being my boy. She said his tongue will hang out a little due to the shorter mouth--it already does only it's out of the side of his mouth :), but he will be fine. His surgery is scheduled for May 7 and he will have to stay over night after his operation, but I can pick him up the next day. He will be on soft foods for a while until he heals, but after that he can go back to his regular food.

I have been so overwhelmed by all of this and find myself getting weepy at the drop of a hat. I also wonder if it's my fault that he is having to have this surgery. Could I have take better care of him? I guess I will never know the answer to that. What I do know is that I'm just glad that he will be with me for a while longer. I know I will lose him one day due to old age, but I refuse to let this nasty disease be the reason.

I wanted to thank everyone for their good wishes for Sheridan. I and my boy both really appreciate it.

[cornermouse]

1. A lot of people would not have gone to the extra trouble and expense

that you've gone to. It's clear that you have taken excellent care of Sheridan so get rid of the idea that you're somehow at fault or that you haven't taken care of his as you should.

[Catchawave]

2. Sheridan is 12, how lucky for him to have you as his

guardian all these years. My Holly is turning 17 this fall, I hope. She's definitely slowing down a bit these days. I wish every companion animal had the life your Sheridan and my Holly have had. Such lucky dogs. :hug:

[cornermouse]

3. By the way, I've got some Cosequin on order

due to the recommendation of a friend. Do either of you know whether this is going to help? My girl doesn't want to walk very much any more and when I get her up and moving she walks stiff. She's a Pyrenees cross, about 11 years old. Big girl.

[Greylyn58]

6. I'm not that familar with it

Thankfully, arthritis is one problem that Sheridan doesn't seem to be bothered with right now. He is slowing down some, but overall he doesn't have joint problems.

Someone in the Pets group said that pure pumpkin-not the kind you make pie with-was good for a dog's joints. Said that it helped keep them fluid. I don't know if that's true-even asked my Vet about it and she didn't know either. My Vet did say it would be good for his digestion. :) Sheridan loves it on his food. I give him one big tablespoon a day mixed into his dry kibble.

The kind I buy is Libby's Pure Pumpkin. Try giving it to your girl along with the Cosequin and see if it helps.

[cornermouse]

7. Thank you.

I'll try that.

[MissDeeds]

4. Great news, Greylyn

I have been checking the Edwards forum every day to see if you had posted an update on Sheridan. Glad to know the news is so good!

You have been a great mom to your beautiful boy and have showered him with love and care - anyone can see that in your posts about him and the beautiful pictures you've shared with us. Don't you dare question yourself or second guess the care he's received - you've been the best.

Now, go have yourself a good cry (of relief!) and look forward to putting this all behind you. I'll keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

:hug:

[spooky3]

5. This is very good news--I hope they can remove all the cancerous tissue

and that Sheridan quickly adapts. I'm glad you live near enough an expert who can do what needs to be done. Best wishes to both of you!

[smokey nj]

8. Wonderful news, Greylyn!

:hug:s to you and Sheridan!

[Beaverhausen]

9. Great news

The fact that it hasn't spread is very good news indeed. Sending lots of love to you and Sheridan. :hug: You are lucky to have each other.

[midnight]

10. That is such a sweet looking dog. Is there any reason why

you changed vets?

[Greylyn58]

12. Actually Sheridan's regular Vet, Dr. Speights recommended this one

as they deal with animal cancers. That's why I'm seeing Dr. McFadden. Kind of like your regular doctor would refer you to an oncologist, which is what Dr. McFadden is.

Hope that helps answer your question. :)

[balantz]

11. He's a beautiful boy! n/t

[waiting for hope]

13. Whew - Blessings to you and

Sheridan. :hug: He looks like such a sweet baby, I'm happy they are able to operate. All the best on the 7th!