Min Schnauzer problem

[Charles777]

About 10 weeks ago my min schnauzer had a front toe amputated because of a tumour, the biopsy showed one or two melanoma cells but the tumour was got out in its entirety.
Now a gland at the top of the leg,where it joins the chest has swollen ,our vet say's that some of the cells must have escaped  and really its only a matter of time before a major organ is infected.he says that nothing can be done.
At the moment he is very bright,loves his walks and wolfs down all his food.
Do we just have to stand by and watch our little lad deteriorate?

[suzi-q]

As long as he is eating, that is the best sign of all!  Best to you and your pup!

[Charles777]

Thank you all for your kind words, please to say he came with us on a xmas holiday for three nights
and did ok, he still wolfs his food down and seems happy at the moment,the vet says there is no treatment he can give him so its wait and see.

[Jaybay]

I'm so sorry!  I'm in a similar situation with a dog deteriorating from kidney failure.  This is so not fun.   At least it isn't a painful condition.  :-(

I agree with suzi.  There are treatments for cancer in dogs - if you can afford it and the dog can tolerate it mentally and physically.  You know you dog, and what would be the kindest course.  If treatment isn't an option, all you can do is keep him as comfortable as possible, for as long as possible.  There are plenty of pain meds that dogs can take, so keep your vet well-informed of any changes requiring medication.  Hang in there and do your best to enjoy the time you have with your friend.

[Charles777]

Thank you suzi-q for your comforting words,that is what I shall do,thank you.

[suzi-q]

First you have to see what kind of treatments are available, if any.  Then you have to see what the odds are for recovery as well as the age of your pet.  It must be so hard for you hearing this news.  I just put my dog down last week and am so heartbroken.  If your pet is acting fine and is happy, maybe just let nature take it's course, especially if the treatment would cause pain.  You would be surprised how long your baby can last with lots of love.  You need to ask your heart what is right.