Need words of wisdom - Oral melanoma spread to lymph node

[Buddy's Mama]

Our 8 3/4 year old white boxer (Kandi) developed an oral tumor in her inner cheek last September. Vet dentist found it while removing her epulis - we had no idea - she had no symptoms. Unfortunately, it grew back within six months. It was melanoma so we were referred to the oncologist. (Kandi is our 4th boxer over the years so we’ve been here before.).

Saw the oncologist again this week. So far, Kandi is eating, drinking, playing - in good spirits. But, oncologist said her lymph node is firm on her left side - she took a sample & confirmed that her cancer has spread to her lymph node in her neck. Our options are 1) ct scan followed by radiation, 2) ct scan followed by surgery to remove her lymph node & 3) keep her home & keep her comfortable as long as we can. There is also the melanoma vaccine which is almost as costly as the other options but not as effective. Cost is an issue but quality of life is equally important.

At this point, we are leaning towards the last option of keeping her home. Our thinking is that we don’t want to put her through all that just for another six to twelve months of life but we’re concerned about putting her in undue discomfort. I’m confident some of you have been down this road before. I would really like to hear your thoughts.

 

[Jan]

I am so sorry! Fortunately I have never had cancer in any of my boxers. I feel I must be really lucky. If it was me, I would probably choose option 3. I am sure you will make the right choice for your girl.
I am sending lots of healing vibes your way. ----->>>>

 

[Cami]

So very sorry for the diagnosis. Been there too many times to count. Only you know your girl. You know what she is capable of and how healthy (or not) she is, minus this new issue. Have an honest conversation with yourself and you will know what to do. No matter what option you choose it will be the right one for her. Prayers for you to find peace in whatever you decide and many more days filled with her Boxer love.

 

[garvinsmum]

Sorry to hear about Kandis diagnosis. Definately not the news you want. I've had 2 boxers with cancer before and I've done everything I could to extend their life by every last day. Looking back I don't know I could say it was the best decision. Cancer treatment can be unpleasant and in an older dog probably won't give them a lot more time. Cancer is really not a nice way to go, so if surgery could completely remove it and leave her to come to the end of her natural lifecycle without going through that, that would certainly be something to consider. I do have a friend though whose doodle was given weeks to live with a mouth cancer. He was losing weight, in discomfort and listless. They got him some CBD and that was 18 months ago. He's 15 now and has regained weight and is really vital for a half blind half deaf old dog! So if you don't want to go the surgery or radiation route that might be something to try if you are in a state where you can get the good quality stuff. Even if not a miracle cure it can certainly improve quality of life. Best wishes to you and Kandi