Thursday, November 6, 2008

Molasses BooDill


I am a bit distracted. Actually, I am very distracted and overcome with worry, and am hoping that the act of writing will be somehow therapeutic.

About 6 weeks ago I took my dog Mo, (Molasses BooDill) to the vets because icky looking mucus was coming out of one nostril, as if she had a bad cold. A sinus infection was suspected, (although the vet did warn me that very rarely this symptom could mean a sinus tumor, a very serious condition, but in which case we would see blood.)


She was treated with antibiotics and in a couple of days was fine. What a relief. Then last week, the greenish mucus came back, along with some occasional breathing attacks that looked like asthma, and a sudden onslaught of snoring while she slept. Off we went to the vets, where we talked some more about the possibility of cancer, but based on how she looked, (over all very good) and that there was no blood, we all agreed that it was probably allergies, or an infection again.


At first the mucus cleared up, and the snoring seems too have as well, but now the mucus is back, this time thiner, clearer, but tinged with blood. I have set up an appointment for Mo to go in on Monday for an x-ray to see what we can see, and I have also requested a probe and a swab to look for signs of anything stuck up there or signs of a fungal infection. (The later two test requests are from information which I gathered while researching her symptoms on the web... however sinus cancer does seem to be the main thing coming up on my searches.)


I am sick with worry, and also feel horrible that I have to leave her at the vets for a whole day, which I know shouldn't seem like a big deal in and of itself, but Molasses is very attached to me and gets depressed even at home with the other family members if I am not there as well. She has been know to get physically sick, (from both ends) when stressed, (such as being left at the vet's and separated from me) even for very short periods of time. She is a sweet and sensitive dog, and I do not want to cause her any undo anxiety. Luckily I have a friend who works at the vets, and has promised to keep her with her in her office for the waiting and recuperation time.

The really horrible thing about sinus tumors in dogs, is that even with aggressive treatment, which is very stressful for the dog, the long range outcome is generally only between a year and a year and a half. Without treatment the outcome is generally only 3 to 6 months. I know I am getting ahead of myself, but this is how I deal with things. I need to get a grip on my plan of action.

I want Mo to live as long as possible, and I want to be able to say that I did everything possible... but that's really all about me, my ego, my wants and needs. When I look at Mo, when I think about her personality, how anxious and upset she gets in certain situations, how depressed she gets when separated from me... I can not bring myself to think about putting her through all of the stressful tests and procedures that she would have to go through so that I can keep her a bit longer by my side.


My duty is to her. To insure her the best sense of love and protection and comfort as possible. When thinking of this I feel stuck between a rock and a hard place. I just want to do right by her. I want to protect her quality of life, and her overall sense of well being. Please keep her in your prayers. She truly is a special soul.

21 comments:

please sir said...

Oh my I truly hope your pup feels better...you will be in my thoughts...hang in there!

dutchcomfort said...

Your post brought tears to my eyes.
I so hope you’re nog right on the diagnosis. It’s wonderful you put her well being first! I’ll be thinking of you and Molasses BooDill! Take care!

T.Allen said...

Oh Victoria, I'm so sorry to hear this news. I completely empathize with your need to have a plan as well as putting Mo's best interest at the top of that list. Your family will be in my thoughts for the best of outcomes. Hugs and peace.

Anonymous said...

Poor Mo! And poor you! I'll say a little prayer for y'all and wish Molasses a speedy recovery!

kelly said...

"She truly is a special soul."
As are you, my dear.

I'm so, so sorry to hear about Mo. I will definitely keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Mrs.French said...

victoria, I am so sad for you and sweet mo...my dog is my baby, so I know how you feel and I am just sick for you...I wish I could be there to give you a big hug...I hope it all turns out ok...sending positive healing doggie thoughts your way..this breaks my heart...xo t

...wait a minute, let's think positive...she will probably clear up over the weekend and go in on monday and be fine....

Michelle Engel Bencsko said...

Aw, little Mo. I had a nervous doggie, too... quivered at the slightest breeze. I feel badly you have this thing to worry about now and that Mo may be in danger. I hope it all works out OK. Keep us posted. Your pup is lucky to have such a loving mommy.

Fer said...

Oh poor dear Mo! I know how you feel and can fully understand your anxiety. Life with our pets is so filling and rewarding, I couldn't imagine living without them.

Sending you and Mo happy thoughts.

High Desert Diva said...

Sending best wishes for Mo!

Alison said...

I am so very sorry to hear about Mo not doing well!! Pets are such a huge part of life for a lot of people, and my heart really goes out to you. I hope the tests say it's just another infection that can be treated. If they say something worse, I just pray that you are able to enjoy every moment with your sweet dog. I'll keep her and you in my prayers.

Bascom Hogue said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jackie said...

Victoria you are imagining the worst thing and it may be soemthing much less worrying.I hope Mo BooDill will be ok. try not to make yourself ill.
I am having Doggy Problems at the moment.

Hey Harriet said...

Oh Victoria I am so sorry to hear this news about your beautiful Mo. Maybe it is just a really bad sinus infection or allergy & will clear up soon. I hope it is nothing worse & I'll be keeping you & Mo in my thoughts & sending positive vibes your way. My dog Sophie sends big loving sloppy cyber kisses to Mo & I'm sending big squishy hugs to you. It must at least be a big relief to you that Mo will have the company of your friend on Monday at the Vet. Mo will enjoy meeting & greeting all the other doggies & cats that swing by that day while on reception duties.

Please give Mo a big hug for me, & I'll be hoping for a good outcome on Monday. Try not to make yourself sick with worrying. It's hard I know, but please take care during this stressful time. xo

Rachel said...

Best wishes to you and your pup. Doing the right thing isn't always easy, but as pet owner it's our job to get them medical attention. Give her extra love when she gets home! : )

Anonymous said...

Oh I am so sorry you're having to go through this. My family and I went through a similar ordeal with our dog, and he made it through everything just fine. He was happy as can be after going through everything and lived a long and happy life. We're all thinking of you during this difficult time, and wishing the best for you and your family. HUGS!

bunzi said...

hope she is feeling better. i love her name. *hugs*

Anonymous said...

oh please I hope it's nothing!
Love,
Maggie

'fancypicnic' said...

Lots of love xx

picciolo said...

oh, I hope everything turns out ok, she looks like a gorgeous dog
: )

Anonymous said...

Oh noo! I'm so sorry. Best wishes for your sweet pup.

Please keep us updated!

Amy C said...

beautiful photies and she looks like the sweetest companion
Thinking of you both x