Chummie's MRI indicates Cancer :(
She is going to confirm the results with a radiologist, but she says the recommended course of action in these sorts of cases is to amputate because the cancer can spread to the spine and beyond.  Apparently, it is not possible to just excise the tumor, nor does this type of cancer respond to non-surgical treatments (chemo, radiation).
They don't have any indication that the cancer has spread, at this point, but that would not be known for sure unless and until the amputation is performed and the nerve tips can be examined. . . so there could be more bad news down the road (but I am going to stay optimistic, dammit!) She said she was really saddened to find these results, because Chummie is such a sweetie and this is definitely bad news, but that I should be encouraged because dogs who undergo the amputation are much happier after the surgery. She says they do really well and that the lifespan remains normal (assuming it hadn't already spread to her spine). We both laughed a bit at Chummie's voracious appetite and how that suggests she has a strong will to live and has the spirit to do fine after surgery. She also tried to reassure me by stating that before MRIs were available, they would have simply recommended the amputation based on her physical symptoms and the EMGs (electrical testing of her nerves) so the MRI provides extra reassurance that the diagnosis is correct. I said that is reassuring to my mind but not my pocketbook. 
Chummie is staying overnight again at the hospital tonight. She has woken up from the anesthesia but they want to keep her on pain killers due the the manipulation she endured during the process. The Vet will talk to the radiologist tomorrow and the surgical staff and I should have more information, logistics, etc. It seems like the right thing to do. . . I would really welcome your input / reactions / support / etc. . . |
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This is soooo sad. I was hoping for better results. 
I honestly don't know what I'd do. I don't want to see my dog in pain! The thought of spinal cancer is nauseating. I know dogs do very well after amputation.....providing she's not too ....ah...fat. They seem to notice the missing limb for about 30 seconds and then get on with their life! Amazing creatures. Don't look back, look forward. I can only pray with the amputation they find healthy nerve tips! I don't know what I'd do if they didn't......would I ask them to put the dog down immediately, not letting her wake up? Can they know that quickly?? Oh my........that's just too hard to contemplate right now. (((((HUGS))))) susan |
| Oh, Val. I'm so sorry This isn't the news we were all hoping for but the vet does sound optimistic. I do think that amputation would be in her best interest as she probably has more happy years to go! Hugs and kisses. |
| The Vet actually commended Chummie's weight, saying she'll do just fine because she's nice and trim. She's weighing under 70 pounds these days (66!), down from 90 when I got her a year ago. I am so glad that I put her on that diet.
She also said that if they don't find healthy tips, they may have to be "more aggressive" near the spine, but that's something they want to avoid and would only do if necessary. She half-heartedly suggested that radiation could be an option but the medical research says it doesn't really work. It is a good point though. I'll ask about the timing of when would they know if the tips are healthy and what would they recommend if they aren't. |
| VAL...HUGS!!!!
I'm so sorry the answer was cancer... I truly hope the surgery is a successful one, and that chummie recooperates and adjusts to the amputation. I'm sure this is the best course for her, certainly better then letting the disease spread to an untreatable area... My prayers and thought are with you guys!!! |
| OH VALim so sorry that it has turned out this way i was really hoping for better news. My heart is breaking for you. Im really hoping that the amputation go's well and that there is no sign of the cancer speading. what you must be going through right now. Sending big (((((((((hugs))))))))your way. |
| I am so sorry
How old is Chummie? Praying it hasn't spread Hugs and kisses to Chummie Laurie |
| I'm so sorry Val.... I wish it was better news
I have heard of dogs going through amputation and doing amazingly well. They recover fast, and I don't think they even care that the limb is gone, they are only happy the source of the pain is gone. These are tough decisions to make, and only you can make them. You know you've done everything possible, and whatever course of action you decide on for Chummie will be the right one. *hugs* |
| Wow. Again, I am speechless.
" Poor Chummie" is all I can think of. You are being so strong for her, Valerie. And she needs that, not knowing any of this.... Hugs to all..... This is definitely a thread that will be followed closely... Wow. |
| So sorry to hear that the MRI indicates cancer. Our hearts go out to you.
Have no experience with this type of illness. Hang tough, you'll do the right thing. |
| That just sucks. I'm so sorry. I really hoped for a different outcome, Val. Chum's a fighter, though. I know she'll do well no matter what treatment if necessary. |
| Very sad to hear the news, but hopefull all will be OK.
If amputation is needed she will cope well, most do, anything to help, is a plus. As far as the pain of keeping the limb and a shorter life span if it spreads, well I would do it if in a same situation. Most importantly she will be pain free after it heals and you will have more quality time with her too. Think it affects the owners more just the thought of it but really they do cope well on 3 legs and she will be happier, pain free in the longer term. Awful decision but really no choice as the only other option is not too and try and keep her comfortable as possible for the short term with pain meds and that is hard on them too as the cancer progresses. Hugs to you all wishing all goes well and you have chum home soon, stay strong & positive.  |
| Poor Chummie. |
| Val,
I am very sorry to hear this news. Will be saying my prayers for you and Chum. Murph and Dud send hugs and kisses as do I. |
| I'm so sorry Val.
Just take some time to make your decision... it has to be what's right for you and Chummie. There are no guarantees when dealing with cancer... the best we can do is go through the steps necessary that will give the best chance for a longer yet quality life. Again, I am so sorry. Hugs to you and Chum~ Jaci |
| I'm so sorry about the results - it is soooo difficult to hear something like that. We're thinking of you and hoping that Chum keeps her spirits up - she is so lucky to have you. |
Oh, Val, how upsetting the results are.  It sounds like you have a WONDERFUL vet, though, who is doing everything possible to educate you enough to make an informed decision.Chummie is a fighter, and if your decision is for the amputation, I'm confident she'll bounce back just fine. I just pray that the cancer hasn't already started to spread. But like you said - we have to stay optimistic, dammit!!  Just know you and Chummie are in all of our thoughts and prayers. God has a way of watching over the special ones, and she certainly fits that category. ((((((((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))))))))) |
| Val,
I am so saddened by the results of Chummie's MRI.
It could have been much worse. She could have been in end stage Cancer like Harley. If the Vet feels she's a good candidate for amputation that is good.I do hope it hasn't spread and Chum can live a very happy long life. Good Luck with whatever you decide. Hugs to you and Chum! |
| I am so incredibly sad for you & Chum, Val.
When do they expect the surgery to take place? |
| Thanks everyone. This outpouring of support and affection means alot to me.
It seems so strange to think about. It has struck me now in retrospect how in all of her photos, she has tucked her left arm up close to her body, even the very first one that was posted on petfinder. I wonder if that was a clue. I am grateful that there is a treatment option. I guess I just have to hope that this step will be what it takes to keep her healthy and happy. . . 
Chummie will get the chance to show us all how strong she is . . .
I will learn more tomorrow about logistics, scheduling, etc. |
Pepsi's Mommy wrote: It could have been much worse. She could have been in end stage Cancer like Harley. I still worry a bit about what they will find but I will just take this one step at a time. . . I'm still so sorry about the passing of Harley. His pictures exuded so much warmth. |
| Thanks Val,
Of course take it one step at a time. Hopefully whatever they find they can treat. Chum does not have the same look Harley had. She is full of life which hopefully will help her overcome this. |
| Oh Val, I'm so sorry. We're all sending you good thoughts. It sounds as if Chum is in good hands. |
| Val, I am sooo sorry. Ive been in meetings all day and just now at 7 pm am catching up on posts...Im sure that Chum's will do well with the amputation, that girl has a strong will....I just wish I was there to give you a big hug though, as Im sure your are just rocking with this news....You and Chummie will be in my thoughts and prayers ..
xo darcy |
| I'm so sorry. I was really hoping for better news for Chum. Sending lots of hugs and prayers your way. |
| I'm so sorry to hear about everything. I hope everything works out for the best |
| I am so bummed out. How old is Chummie? |
| Chummie is 9 1/2. I was worried about that but the Vet does not seem to think her age is a limiting factor and Chum is showing alot of spunk and resiliency with all of this testing.
In thinking of the tradeoffs, I get the impression that the surgery means a couple weeks of recuperation, mainly for the wound to heal. They are generally able to walk right away. But then she could have 1, 2, 3 or more years of pain free life. It is different than my cat where they said even with surgery, the cancer would come back and kill her in a matter of weeks. With this one, if it hasn't spread, after surgery there would be no impact on her remaining lifespan. Big IF but there's no way to know without the surgery. . . I think on balance, it seems worth pursuing because the alternative seems to guarantee a pretty painful death . . . |
| 9 1/2 is not too old for her to adjust and cope and cope she will as she has an endearing spirit and will.
My sisters blue heeler had an amputation of the front leg at 9 because of bone cancer and he lived a very happy life till 14, could still charge around a paddock 
Special hugs to you both and keep positive.  |
| Val I am so sorry for this news. Hugs and prayers are with you. Maybe there is still some hope. At least they can save her if it is cancer. |
| So sorry to hear the outcome of the MRI.
Follow your heart and your gut, Chummie relies on you to make the right decisions. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you! |
| Poor Chummie
so sorry sending you lots of (((((((((((HUGS))))))))))) Kim & Maizie |
| No matter how many times I watch Animal Planet where a vet must remove a dog's leg, I'm amazed how quickly the dog recovers and gets on with life. I'm sure Chummie will prove that true. Curious reading Sandy's comments on the other list about meeting the tripod sheepie at CSU vet med hospital and not even noticing there was a leg missing.
BTW, which leg is it on Chummie? susan |
| Val!
I'm so sorry and sad for you and Chummie and Maggie. Not what I was hoping to hear. I hope that you choose the surgery. Chums seems like she can handle it, right? I'll be thinking of you all. |
| You'll be in my prayers Val. |
| Thanks everyone.
It is her front left leg. Interestingly, it is the leg she has been protecting in nearly all of her photos, starting with this one, which was the photo accompanying her listing on petfinder.com just over a year ago: 
I could not resist that beautiful, beseeching face. She sure was tubby back then! |
| Val-I am so sorry to hear about Chum's results. The Pud Monster and I are sending hugs and prayers. Oh, and sheepie kisses too. I hope that all goes well with the surgery. I'm sure she will be up and going at no time at all. |
| Val i am so sorry to hear of chummies results.
I know of a Dalmation who was ten when he had to have his leg amputated and he was going for short walks within days.Seen him a couple of days ago playing with his younger brother. |
 Val, Just saw the photo of Chummie. I'm so sorry about the diagnosis, but just think how good it is for her to be with you. You'll do the right thing for her and be there to look after her. Best wishes to you both. Kisses for Chummie from Willoughby. |
| Val,
So sorry to hear the latest news. I had so hoped that Chummie was on the way to recovery. Here's wishing you the knowledge to do what's right, peace to accept your decision, and comfort - because any decision you make is going to be hard. Hugs from the Louisiana Sheepie Bunch! |
| I had a long and detailed discussion with the vet today (she called me from home on a Saturday). She said that after consulting with many doctors, she continues to believe that amputation is the best choice for giving Chum more happy, pain-free years ahead. She said that they cannot be 100% sure that it is cancer -- they see something wrong on the MRI but the type of cancer they think it is doesn't grown into a mass or lump-- but that they have ruled out everything else, that they never truly know until they look at the tissue, that they cannot look at the tissue without destroying the functionality of the leg, that dogs with her symptoms never recover functionality, and that no medicine or treatment can relieve the pain she is experiencing. . .
So I am supposed to taper her down to a moderate dose of prednisone this week and hopefully schedule the operation to occur the week after this coming week. This particular doc is going to be away at a neurology conference during that time. She said she was really sad not to be there for Chum through this but it was more important to get it done than for her to be there. She has really been so sweet and warm throughout this process. I really believe when she says she wants the best for Chummie. . . Taking deep breaths and getting my head around what's to come. . . |
| The internet bytes. I have nothing left to type, and only a virtual hug to offer. |
| ((((Hugs)))))
We are thinking of you & Chum and hopefully she will make a miraculousy fast recovery and be able to enjoy the many years ahead. Maybe she'll even run around with Maggie? |
| I'm at a loss for words.
You have all of my thoughts, prayers, hugs and strength for you and DEAR SWEET CHUMMIE!
There's a forum member that adopted a Sheepie missing a leg. |
| Hi Valerie,
I'm so sorry I hadn't responded sooner as I've just started catching up with the numerous post. My heart is breaking for Chummie. I was truly touched by the photo you posted of her as well as I've often mentioned she resembles my now departed Shaggy. When Shaggy was ill the vet use to call me from her home as well and I knew that she went over and beyond her call of duty. I sense you feel the same way about your vet as well. Trust the vet's judgement but trust yours a well. As her mom your have an innate gut instinct that you know what is best for her. Listen to it and well as advice from trusted individuals. Remember Olivers mom? She adopted a three legged sheepie a few months ago and after the initial period of adjustment she only has good things to say. My previous kitty had to have his leg amputated and still went on to live until the ripe ole age of 19. I am praying all outcomes are good for Chummie and hugs to you at what must be a difficult time. Marianne and the boys  From the boys to Chummie |
| Val, through a most harrowing time, how wonderful it is to know that the vet is that caring and concern for sweet Chummie. I know this had to be a hard decision to make but it appears to be the best one for the long run. We are all here for you, pal! I will keep both you and Chum in my prayers.
HUGE hugs from Drez and me, to her twin. |
| Oh Val,
With the power out I did minimal checking of the forum. I am soooo sad to hear about Chummie. We will keep you in our prayers at our house. I was hoping the outcome would be better but it sounds like from all the posts and your good attitude that Chummie could be fine after the surgery. Keep up your optimism and know we are all with you. |
| Val ~
I'm speechless. I had so hoped that Chummie's health problems were behind her. I really wish I could give you both a huge ((((hug))). Being positive is the best thing you can do for her. Your vet sounds very caring and competent, which is a big comfort during these difficult times. My Pumpkin had to have her rear leg removed when she was five and she lived a very active life for eight more years. I was crushed when I had to make the decision, but it really was amazing to watch how well she got along. Most of the time, it took people quite a while to realize what was "different" about her. You & Chum are in my prayers. |
| Val, I'm so sorry to hear about Chummie. I don't read the Medical and Nutrition forum as often as others, so I had no idea this was going on. I can't imagine how hard this has been for you, but it must be a comfort to know everyone on this board is keeping you and her in their thoughts and prayers. What a great bunch of people. I haven't been on here that long, but I've read so much about Maggie and Chummie I feel like I know you guys. Please know we're adding our prayers to the others.
Josh, Jon, Blue & Belle |
| Thank you all. It has certainly been alot to get my head around. All the reading I've done and questions I've asked give me information that is consistent with the diagnosis. . . My biggest concern is that one of Chummie's back legs is a bit shaky too and I would hate to take one leg and learn it had already spread. ANother thing is that I see her using her left (diseased) leg right now to hold down a bully stick and the optimist in me thinks maybe the diagnosis is wrong, but it is more likely to be simply that the painkillers are working.
She looks awful today because she got into a tussle with Maggie yesterday and she has a scrape below her eye. I've been applying antibiotic ointment. Luckily there is enough distance that I don't think it will get into her eye. But she kind of looks like she has a black eye because her fur got stained a bit from blood. The prednisone is making Chum pretty fierce when it comes to food and treats. It has been a great surprise to see that wild child Maggie has turned out to be a very patient and non-reactive dog. But I guess maybe Maggie had enough of the bullying. . . |
| Wish I could come visit right now and give you all a hug. Hugs and kisses... |
| How's Chummy doing? |
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