Four Legs Is Just Extra Baggage

As many of you already know Lulu was diagnosed with bone cancer last week. On Wednesday we’re headed to see a surgeon who will amputate her leg either that day or the next. 

Lulu, in the past few years, has started to have leg problems, but her limps and shaky limbs have always resolved themselves – that is, up until two weeks ago. 

On Thursday, August 10 Lulu could not get up. When she tried she screamed out in pain. We went to the vet the following day, where she was given x-rays that revealed a mass on her left hind leg near her pelvis. The doctor and radiologist thought it looked suspicious so we headed to an oncologist in Manhattan. 

Further poking and prodding (all taken with much grace by Miss Lulu) and x-rays confirmed suspicions, but thankfully ruled out the cancer’s spread to her lungs. Removing her leg will most importantly kick the pain to the curb, but it will also provide us with more information about what kind of cancer Lulu has. 

We’re keeping our fingers crossed for one of two benign tumors, which would mean amputation is all we’d have to do. If it’s the third more aggressive kind, she’ll have to do 5 to 6 sessions of chemo over the next few months. Chemo thankfully does not effect dogs in the same way it affects humans. They may have a day or two of fatigue after a session, but otherwise they bounce back pretty quickly. Oh and don’t worry, Lulu’s fur will remain for all to pet. 

The bad news is that chemo is not a cure, just a delay. Without chemo Lulu would only be with us for a few more months. With, she’s got a year or more (we’re aiming for more). 

Now many of you may be wondering if Little Lulu should be put through all this, especially since much to her denial she’s no spring chicken. I thought about it for a minute and my answer came when I looked at her. 

Other than her leg Lulu is doing great. She’s as happy as she’s ever been, pretty active, and overall in really great health (she always gets gold stars at the vet). I think both of us can look at each other and say for certain that she still has a lot of kisses and noodle dances left in her. 

 I started this blog to have a place where all those who love the Lu can get updates on her progress. I’ll try to update daily, unless you know, nothing happens that day.

Comments

[sarah]

Good luck Lulu!! I'm looking forward to seeing you in September.

[nicole]

hey lulu! my favorite dogs, with the exception of a certain black pug, are all on three legs. i'm rooting for you and know you're in the best possible hands.

xo!!!

[peedro]

i call dibs on her extra toes