Update on Arch looks like it's hemanglosarcoma

[ArchandEbs]

Well we went to the vets today. It's not neurological - Arch's reflexes were working and he corrected his paw when it was turned under.

Unfortunately he has a mass in his spleen. Harry died from the same thing.

Sadly Arch is showing all the clinical signs - loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy, sudden weakness.

Now here is my dilema. When they discovered Harry's we had an ultrasound done and within a week he'd died.

This isn't about money - but do I really want to put Arch through an ultrasound to discover something that in my heart I feel he has because his symptons are so similar to Harry's.

I've read about treatments and prognosis. Even if we have his spleen removed - a big operation for an old dog it's only going to add a few months to his life expectency.

My gut feeling is not to go ahead with the ultrasound - but I could be wrong. Has anyone else been in this position?

I want what is best for Arch and for him to have a quality of life. He enjoyed his puppycinno today and his mutley muffin - but spent the rest of the day asleep.

I don't want to put him through tests and treatment that's going to make him feel bad.

He's been a wonderful, loyal companion and he is my first german shepherd. Really not sure what to do for the best....

Oh Lisa
Im so sorry to hear this news): youve been through so much heartache
Go with your heart Hunny, enjoy every day with him.
Thinking of you both, gentle hugs for Arch.

Linda x

So sorry to hear this ArchandEbs. How do they know it's a mass on his spleen.. if he's not had ultrasound, is it by palpation they've found it?

It's a tough one, if he's still enjoying life and not in pain then I'd make him as comfortable as possible. But you know the outcome, so when you feel he's not himself maybe that's when it's time. A horrible decision; we've all been there. xxx

[ArchandEbs]

Hi Anni - physical exam which is how they picked up Harry's. By the time it's got to this stage ie it's so big they can feel it - there is little they can do - the ultrasound is to confirm the diagnosis. Harry died within a week of his ultrasound.

Arch with his legs the way they are doesn't really cope with sedation very well plus his age.

Linda - thanks for your kind thoughts. I think I'm going to have another discussion with the vet tomorrow x

[lauraburns]

Aww Lisa, I really do feel for you! It is a horrible position to be in. At the end of the day you know Arch best, and only you can make the decision. But whatever decision you make we are all here for you and Arch, wish there was more I could say or do! Give Arch a cuddle from me, and I will be sending lots is positive vibes you way!! xxxx

[zetstaff]

What a dilemma, you have to do what you think is right, whatever that is will be right as you'll always do what's best for Arch, that's crystal clear.

Only you know Arch, whatever you do sending lotsa love + thinking about you xxx

[Stuart]

You are in a real fix,.. and I do not envey what you have coming,..I really feel for you,... I think from what you say,... that I know what I would do,.. but this is for you and you only,.. you will do what you know inside is best

[sami]

So sorry for your news Lisa I have pm'd you.

Tracy

[Heather]

Oh Lisa I'm in tears again, you're going through what I've just experienced with Polka. If in your heart you know that you don't want to put Arch through any more tests then maybe that's what you should do. In the end I decided to forget about Polka's cancer and concentrate on making her as comfortable as possible, let her be at home where she wanted to be and give her all the love I could.

It's such a difficult decision to make, I'm sure your vet will give you sound advice, as from your other posts I know you really trust him.

Thinking of you xx

[kadeshi]

sorry to hear about arch.i would go and have another chat with the vet,discuss your options.as other have said you know your pup better than anyone,will be thinking of you ,and wishing you strength in whatever you decide.