A Day in the Life of a Chemo Patient

What is Chemotherapy Like from a Dog’s Perspective?  Read on!

By Jessica Bisgaard, LVT

Cooper 1

Hi, my name is Cooper. I’m a 7 year old Labador Retriever. I was diagnosed with a type of cancer called hemangiosarcoma and I’m being treated at Four Seasons Veterinary Specialists. My people have just dropped me off for my next chemo treatment. I come here every two weeks for chemotherapy. Some people think that chemo sounds scary, but I always have a a great day visiting my oncology team.

Cooper 2

At each visit, my technicians take a very small amount of blood to make sure that my white blood cell counts are high enough for chemotherapy. My doctor, Erica Faulhaber, always examines me, which includes lots of hugs and usually some belly rubs, too. Once I am cleared for treatment it’s time to get on the table! They always make sure I’m comfortable!

Cooper 3

Once they’ve placed the IV catheter in my leg, they put on new, funny-looking clothes. Then they hook me up to this bag with red fluids in it. They’ve told me this chemo is called Doxorubicin.

Cooper 4

Sometimes I’m so comfy, I feel like taking a nap while receiving my chemo. I don’t really have a good grasp of time, but I would guess my chemo administrations take about 30 minutes.

Cooper 5

My technicians always give me lots of love and care before and after every treatment! I’m so lucky to have such amazing friends taking care of me!

Cooper 6

Since I’m such as good boy I always get a toy filled with peanut butter after we are all finished! Then I just wait for my people to come back.

Cooper 7

Later in the day my people return!! The technicians always discuss my treatment with them and go over my at-home care. They always discuss potential chemotherapy side effects like vomiting or diarrhea. I am not sure what all that means because I always feel great after my chemotherapy and I eat all my meals (plus extra treats when I get them).

While my people finish up at the front desk, the staff up front always give me lots of attention! Although I had a wonderful day at Four Seasons, it’s always nice to go home at the end of the day, but I look forward to more hugs and peanut butter snacks in two weeks!

 

ADDENDUM:

Cooper finished his chemotherapy on February 2 and is doing pretty well!

Cooper 2 2.2.17

 

2 Comments on “A Day in the Life of a Chemo Patient”

  1. Hildy Hobbs

    Hey Coop! How about playing ball with grandma. You are such a good dog. Big hugs to you. Love ya lots.

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