Brain problem

[long ago and faraway]

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Alice is 10 1/2, a previously very healthy CKCS. Three weeks ago she suddenly developed vestibular disease and after about a fortnight the head tilt had gone but she showed other neurological signs and went rapidly downhill. The vet thinks Alice has a brain tumour and agrees with me that scans and tests are
pointless.
No full-on fits but frequent jerkiness, very weak and wobbly, sleeping deeply for hours and hours but can walk when she gets going. She’s eating but can't drink, I’m using a syringe for water.
Sometimes I think Alice is dying then she comes to life for a while. She’s not in pain. I adore her and will say goodbye as soon as that becomes what’s best for her.
Any advice or comfort to offer me? This is so hard.

 

[JoanneF]

I am sorry to hear this, it is always such a hard thing to watch our pets suffer.

There is a scale used to assess our pets' quality of life when they are seriously ill. I understand it was developed for cancer care but the principles apply to any life limiting condition. What is their quality of life in relation to Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility and More good days than bad days. You can find more detail here Pawspice And Animal Oncology Consultation Service - Veterinarian In Hermosa Beach, CA USA :: Quality of Life Scale

There is a saying, better a week too soon than a day too late. It's a terrible decision but one that responsible owners have to face. If it helps, the Blue Cross has a pet bereavement counselling service.

 

[arealhuman]

I'm so sorry to read this. I'm afraid I can't offer any advice, you seem to be doing what any good owner would do by helping your pet in any way you can. Best wishes to you both.

 

[Josie]

Sorry to hear this @long ago and faraway :-(

I ditto @arealhuman - you can only do what you feel is right. It’s all about quality of life and if you believe this is what she has or doesn’t then you can make your decision.

Lots of support on here x

 

[Ruth_F]

Hi
Recently gone through something similar with my Beagle but with a different variety of cancer. He was trundling along OK, sleeping a lot but happy in himself and going for little walks etc for 5 months after his diagnosis of chronic leukemia. His health then deteriorated over a few weeks, and he spent 3 days in pain in the end (day 1 took him to the vet to see what could be done, day 2 trying it out, day 3 back to vets as it was time). I was guided by the vet, as they are better able to see any suffering your dog is in a bit more objectively.