Charlie --14 years and 7 months

[charlie55]

It has been years since I have posted. This forum and its wonderful members helped me during Charlie's puppy years.
I visit often and read wonderful stories and updates. I cry and smile.

6 weeks ago we found out that our Charlie has possible cancer. Charlie has been very healthy until about a year ago with arthritis and a trip to ER with Vestibular issue (dog vertigo) last September.
At this time, I thought we would have lost him. That Vestibular episode was the scariest thing. It was quite traumatizing. (equivalent to vertigo, that takes days to weeks to resolve).

We took him to see the vet for exam bloodwork this past May (bloodwork done 6 months prior) . Our vet said.... his gums are very pale. Discussed what that could mean.
Blood work results came back and she wanted to do Ultrasound asap. Did it the next day.... and she called to deliver the news. Charlie has a lot of tumor around his liver and spleen, and has internal bleeding. She said he is not in pain. She said she wouldn't even do surgery because there were so many and of course his age. She said I could do Chemo..however quality of life and may only extend his life 2 months. Basically it was enjoy every day like it could be his last. Not sure how I even made it through the last month.

She gave us some Chinese herbal meds to help with internal bleeding and stopped his meds, Apoquel and Derammax.

SHOCK.... I of course booked a weekend away- he loves going away. Went to a beach friendly town, he loves strolling up and down the shops and get attention and treats.
My husband and I have our work schedule so he is not alone for more than an hour. I dont want him to die alone......
We are fortunate that we work hybrid. Seriously considered taking a leave of abcense.

Here we are 6 weeks later, enjoying every single day with him. He overall is the same since the visit. I knew this moment would be painful, but one can never truly prepare. It is quite heart breaking, enough so that I dont even know I can allow myself to fall for another dog.

Writing this here, is very therapeutical and needed it.

[Berna]

Hi and welcome back. I remember you and Charlie. Sorry to hear about the dreaded diagnosis, it sucks seeing them get old. 14 years and 7 months is an amazing age to reach. I hope you get a lot more time together. Hugs to you and Charlie.

[smartrock]

Hi! Charlie may be ill but you certainly wouldn't know it from that happy face! I'm glad you've been able to spend some wonderful time with him. It is heartbreaking to lose these guys. Hugs to you all.

[Snowshoe]

It's a tough time, I'm sorry. Stay strong for Charlie, I know you will.

[Macy]

I remember you. I am truly sorry to hear this. Charlie has such a happy labby smile. He's a lucky guy to be so loved.