We developed an abiding interest in canine cancer research and treatment when our lab Riggsie was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma (HSA) in 2005. He was 2 1/2 years old. We had only had him 9 months at that point, but he was the love of our lives.
The cancer was in his left hip joint, and his left hind leg had to be amputated. He was given 4 months to live, but he lived 16 months beyond his diagnosis. He died just short of his 4th birthday.
Riggsie had a profound effect on us. We met a lot of wonderful people and became involved with Canine Cancer Awareness. We continue to follow and support the researchers who are working to find more effective treatments for HSA and other cancers that affect dogs.
Amputation
Adriamycin -- got mortally ill, discontinued after one treatment
Carboplatin -- was not effective
Tumor found in spleen--removed spleen
Went back to adriamycin at a reduced dose. Managed nausea with Zofran and a supplement/dietary protocol designed by our holistic vet. I really believe the adria made a difference.
Put Riggsie on Dr. Kevin Hahn's metronomic protocol.
Tumor found in liver. Surgically removed it; Riggsie never truly recovered and went downhill quickly.
Mitoxantrone--just one treatment, then Riggsie became too ill.
His hind legs started to fail, and then the paralysis moved up his body. It became clear that we were at the end.
We said goodbye to our precious boy on June 9, 2006, at home. Riggsie died eating homemade liver treats. surrounded by the family to whom he had given so much in his short but beautiful life.
Bone Cancer Dogs Yahoo! group
CanineCancer Yahoo! group