We have a lovely 12 year old un-neutered male Staffy who is a much loved family pet. Around 3.5yrs ago we noticed a lump on the base of his tail and vet said nothing to worry about but over the last few years it’s slowly gotten bigger and not long ago we were offered surgery to remove and biopsy lump however we decided against any surgery at his age. From research I believe he’s got a slow growing Fibrosarcoma however we’ll never know for sure without tests. Our lovely dog has now started chewing, biting and licking the tumour day and night. No matter what we do it’s constant so it’s obviously significantly annoying him and is likely painful. We were at the vet today and were prescribed painkillers, antibiotics and steroid cream.
The vet has told us if the medication doesn’t work we need to consider his quality of life and it prompted a discussion between myself and DH. DH believes this isn’t a reason to have him pts as he is still absolutely fine within himself, eating, drinking, toileting etc however I think it’s something we do need to consider as far as I’m concerned our poor boy is so uncomfortable/annoyed by this he’s taken to chew his own body for some sort of relief.
Ddog was DH’s before we met however he is our family pet and I will not allow him to suffer regardless of DH feelings, I love him too much. I am a very practical person and often put feelings aside in favour of practicality whereas DH is led by emotions.
Has anyone had issues with family/partner who doesn’t agree pts is a possibility? If so how did you approach it? I don’t want to force the discussion if not necessary, it may not even be an issue but I am not convinced the medication will work certainly not long term anyway.