Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...
I have been waiting all year for my 1 week vacation to the beach. 3 weeks ago we found out that our dog has cancer and that it is only a matter of time till we need to put her to sleep. While she is not eating much, the pain pills we give her daily keep her comfortable and she seems to like being around the family even though she doesn't have much energy. My sister and her husband who usually watch the dog at their house, just backed out today(2 days before we leave) They have plans for the weekend so don't feel its fair to have the dog in the house all day alone...I don't feel right putting the poor dog in a kennel for the week because she never has been....So I think I will send my husband, my daughter and the grandkids to the beach and stay home with the dog. My other options are few....perhaps my adult son would stay at our house, his does not have air conditioning and the dog needs the air conditioning at this point. I know this has nothing to do with RA but I work all year and long for my beach vacation to recharge my batteries and now......well I could cry!! thanks for listening..
As his illness escalated we noticed that he distanced himself from the family. Animals have a aense about death and wait til the timing is right. They also prepare by separating themselves from family attachments. Our Sammy died in my husbands arms while waiting to see an emergency vet.
I have no words of wisdom for you. You need to do what you feel in your heart is best. Your dog is still an animal ( no matter how much we love them) and your health and well being is very important. Never disregard that your batteries have to be recharged.
Sounds as though having your son come and stay at your home may be a good option for you. Are you prepared mentally if he passes while you are on vacation?
Just think things through, I know this is a tugh dilemma to be in. I know you will come to the right decision if you approach it from a practical position.. Good luck and know my prayers are with you and the family and your beloved dog too!
Our dog is 15 years old and we found out about 2 months ago that he has an abdominal tumor. The vet doesn't know exactly what it is and wanted to do exploratory surgery. But my theory is that as long as he seems comfortable and not in pain, we'll just keep him here with us until he lets us know otherwise. Like I said, it's difficult, but . . .
Hope this helps. Please keep us posted.
Hugzz,
Golda