Today is the big day. We dropped Mac off this morning at the animal hospital for his front right leg amputation.
Needless to say, this has been a roller coaster of events. Just 2 weeks ago, I woke up excited and ready to meet this orthopedic specialist to finally figure out what was wrong with Mac. Excitement turned to horror and devastation when the doctor came in and broke the news that Mac most likely has bone cancer, and she suspected Osteosarcoma.
Filled with emotions and questions and confusion, we immediately scheduled the suggested bone biopsy for the following day to confirm our suspicions. There was a small glimmer of hope that it might be this fungus that presents itself in the same way that bone cancer does.
We made an appointment the following week with the oncologist that is right next to the animal hospital.
At this appointment, we got the results of the bone biopsy, which concluded that Mac most likely has Chondrosarcoma. This is slightly better news, as Mac’s odds of beating the cancer have increased 30%.
Before this news, when we thought it was Osteosarcoma, we were very sure that we would just let Mac live out his life until the pain becomes too much. With this news, that it is probably Chondrosarcoma, a whole new decision had to be made.
Cost aside, Mac is a member of our family. Though this will be tough financially for us, he had a crappy life before we adopted him last June, 2014. He deserves this. This isn’t about us – we look into his eyes and see a dog not defined by his age, but by his spirit. His energy, sheer strength, love of life and excellent health has all been a factor in our decision.
Today, Mac will undergo this amputation. I dropped him off this morning, and am still waiting to hear when he is going in. I know this will be tough, but I also know that he is still so full of life and if there is any ‘old man dog’ that can overcome this, I know it is Mac!
We took him on his last 4-legged walk last night (and he LOVES walks), and he was running full-speed ahead. What is normally our short route proved to be a little too far for him and he slowed down at the end. This morning, I felt sure of our decision when I saw Mac and how much pain he was in from that short walk.
I’ll update later with more news!
Thanks for listening.
Jamie, Connor and Mac
Jamie and Connor,
I fully understand your pain and empathize whole heartedly. It is such a tough time for Mac and both of you. Skittles just went through the same surgery just last Saturday, and this community was here for both of us. They have been so compassionate and supportive, I don’t think I would have gotten through it without them (Skittles loves them too!) If you need someone to talk to I am here for you, or do what I did and call the support line. These people are awesome!!!
Skittles Dad
Dear Mac,
I know it scary, just remember it’s for the best. I had to stay in the hospital for 5 days before they could do my surgery. Every human you meet is going to smother you with love and affection, and when you get out of there you will be spoiled rotten; )
Hang in there buddy and if you need a pal I’m your pooch.
Xoxo, Skittles
Thank you, skittles dad! I really appreciate that. It is so true, this community has gotten me through this. Seriously though.
I know Mac is out of surgery but I am pulling my hairs out waiting for the doc to call me to tell me how it went!!
Ps: your human looks like a great pillow! You guys look like 2 peas in a pod
Xoxo, Skittles
Mac is a lucky guy! Good luck today. And with future treatment and healing.
Thanks doxie. I think everything went well, just waiting to hear back from the vet. I have been an anxious pile of nerves today, that’s for sure…
Sending all kinds of healing vibes to Mac. Paws crossed all went well!
xoxo,
Codie Rae and the Oaktown Pack
Welcome Teammac….we went through this last June with my Dobe Nitro. Today he is happy and healthy and loving life on three legs. Good luck on this journey, it might be scary at first, but better days are ahead. Check out the live chat sometime, this place and these people are truly a blessing.
Paula and Nitro
All paws crossed for Mr. Mac McKinley today!
Hard to believe he was used as a Guard Dog! Too funny! Yeah, he’d probably kiss the first intruder he saw!
I’m sorry he was hurting from over doing it a bit. It just confirms there is no other option and you aredoing everything possible for Mac’s well being.
Love to you and Connor snd Mac too!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Love the picture of your boy. Such a sweet boy.
Mac is SUCH a lucky pooch!!! We look forward to celebrating your recovery and following your journey. Hugs and love … we’re all here for you!
Alison with Spirit Shelby and little Jasper too