Update time!

Just wanted to get an update on here, as I was going to post something after finding out his latest bloodwork, etc.  According to the doctor, his blood work was "beautiful"!  So, that was comforting.  Everything is within normal ranges.  I also just wanted to add that his huffing episodes have since stopped for now.  We changed his dosing schedule so that he was taking his pill in the morning.  I really don't know if that made any difference, or what.  But, it's good to know that I have not heard him do that for a couple of weeks now.  I asked the doctor if she honestly thought Oakley will make it a year and she told me that she truly believed he will still be with us because he is doing remarkably well.  However, I know that this can probably change in an instant; you just never know.  I am hoping and praying that the radiation treatment has stopped the tumor growth, and hopefully shrunk it, and we will be able to manage it long-term with little complications.  I can hope for that, right?

I am kind of torn about pursuing Neoplasene treatment.  The hardest part is finding a local vet who will actually be willing to try it or who has even heard of it.  A part of me just thinks that we have done everything we can already for Oakley and now it's just a wait and see, and basically just let him live out the rest of his life, for however long that may be, as happy and comfortable as possible.  Neo could cause more discomfort for him and may not do anything to the tumor.  But, then perhaps it could shrink it.  The only vet willing to do anything is one in New York, all via phone consultations.  I'm just not too keen on that idea, not having a local vet around for exams and such.

I've been reading around some messageboards and it has been so sad to read about the dogs that didn't survive very long after their diagnosis, or who are just going through a difficult time, struggling with their cancer.  It's truly heartbreaking and it makes me obviously think, is this Oakley's fate?  The original vet gave Oakley 3-6 months without treatment.  He has had all scientifically proven treatment, besides surgery, since his diagnosis and it has been 4 months so far.  Thankfully he's doing great at the moment.  I can only hope he will continue to fight this and that we will have some control over the disease for awhile yet. 

Here's a picture of Oakley last night - he was out like a light!  The quality is a little grainy as I took it from my cell phone and the lighting wasn't very bright. 

Seeing him sleeping so soundly just melts my heart and just gives me comfort.  It also saddens me a bit because I know that someday his bed will be empty.  But, I should stop thinking like that and just concentrate on the present.  It's just something I have to keep reminding myself.