Article May 2010

Dear Doctor:
My Golden Retriever is fourteen years old, and was recently diagnosed with cancer. I was told that there are treatments available, but I don't want to prolong her suffering. Should I just put her to sleep?

Signed,
Edward in Custer

I definitely sympathize with your situation, having lost two of my own dogs to cancer in the last few years. Unfortunately, there are so many types of cancers in our pets, and while some types of cancers respond well to treatment, others do not. Typically, cancer is treated by surgery, drug therapy, and/or radiation therapy, which may be cost prohibitive for many people.

It is important to know the actual type of cancer, which is usually determined by analysis of blood or tissue. Based on this analysis, the treatment options, potential complications, and the prognosis (chances for survival) can be determined. Through the years, I have learned that each case is different. One pet may do great with treatment, and the next may have difficulty. The majority of cancer treatments have a potential risk of side effects, which can make the treatment worse than the disease in some patients. Complications also add more cost. Some treatments require hospitalization, which can be stressful for some pets.

I consider myself lucky, in that both of my girls tolerated their respective treatments very well, allowing for a good quality of life. But I also know that not every patient is as fortunate. Just because a treatment is available, it may not be right your situation.

As your veterinarian reviewed the available treatment options, the discussion may have seemed overwhelming, and it can be easy to forget what was discussed. Therefore, if you have any questions regarding specific treatments, you should contact your veterinarian again to clarify any questions. It may also be helpful to seek out a second opinion or to schedule an appointment with a specialist at one of the referral centers if this would help you to make decisions on behalf of your pet.

If you decide that treatment is not appropriate for your girl, then it is important to think of her quality of life. It is very difficult to make the final decision for euthanasia. I had a client once tell me that she would list her pet's three most favorite things, such as playing ball, going for walks and eating. As she noted that her pet was no longer able to enjoy these simple pleasures, she knew it was time for that pet. If a pet is in any distress, it may also be time to consider euthanasia. It is the final "gift" that we can give to our companions, as we never want to see our pets suffer.

I commend you for submitting a question on a topic that many people have difficulty discussing. I hope that you find the best answer for you and your girl.