Remember Drby: A heart Felt Goodbye

The Joys and Sorrows of Pet Ownership

Having a pet is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but losing them can also bring some of the deepest sorrow.

 

Drby's Diagnosis

Drby was only 6 years old when he was diagnosed with Stage V Lymphoma and Leukaemia. By the time he received his diagnosis, his cancer was already very advanced.

In the first week of July, we took Drby in for a check-up, suspecting he might have a sinus infection. He was showing an unusual amount of eye discharge and had a constant gurgle in his throat, similar to a human trying to clear a lingering cough.

After a thorough examination, our vet found a large mass on the back of Drby's left leg, raising immediate concerns. She recommended a Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) to determine the nature of the mass, and we received results within 24 hours.

When the vet called, the news was grim. The test showed abnormal cell activity in the lymphocytes, indicating the possibility of lymphoma. While nothing was confirmed, we knew the results were not what we had hoped for.

Instantly, my world was turned upside down. The details of her call became a blur as the reality of a potential cancer diagnosis sank in. The vet wanted Drby to come in for another FNA to confirm her findings.

The Struggle Begins

From that moment, we realized our days with Drby were numbered. After the second test, the results were the same, and we noticed his lymph nodes around his neck were also growing. What started as tiny bumps, about the size of chickpeas, began to increase in size.

Unfortunately, Drby’s sinus issues were put on hold as we focused on his cancer diagnosis. We conducted a respiratory swap to address the sinus problems, as well as full bloodwork. Within days, he tested positive for mycoplasma, a treatable bacterial infection that could be deadly if left untreated. The bloodwork confirmed our worst fears: “Stage V Lymphoma with possible Leukaemia.”

His lymph nodes continued to swell, and we suspected there were more around his trachea, which began to restrict his breathing. It became increasingly clear that he was experiencing discomfort.

Finding Treatment

Slowly, Drby started having trouble breathing. He could no longer sleep curled up or on his sides due to the pressure on his airway. This was particularly difficult during the hottest part of the year; he panted excessively, and we knew it was not just the heat.

Within days, we were referred to an oncologist to discuss treatment options. After researching, we learned that chemotherapy was the only option to potentially prolong his life. We approached the appointment prepared for the possibility that chemotherapy would be both costly and challenging.

The oncologist explained that chemotherapy could extend Drby’s life by 6 months to a year, depending on whether he had T-cells or B-cells. T-cells, the more aggressive cancer cells, would limit him to around 6 months, while B-cells offered a better chance for a year.

As Drby lay panting in the office, we recognized that prolonging his life in such a state would be difficult for all of us. He was not comfortable, yet he was trying to make the best of it. Watching him struggle to breathe was heartbreaking. As a pet parent, I felt utterly powerless—there was little I could do to ease his discomfort except be there for him.

Ultimately, we chose to forgo chemotherapy. Instead, we were given Prednisone, a strong steroid to help control inflammation and cancer growth until the cancer cells overtook his body.

Cherishing the Time Left

Throughout this difficult time, Drby remained alert and loving, even as his energy level declined. He enjoyed being outside on his favorite patch of grass, soaking in the sun and feeling the wind on his face.

We established a routine of taking him out to his special spot daily, allowing him to enjoy the world around him. Depending on his energy, he would either slowly walk home or give me the look that said, “Please carry me.”

As time passed, Drby’s condition worsened. He lost interest in his favorite treats, ate less, and spent most of his time resting. The most alarming moments were when he would finally fall asleep, and I would check to see if he had passed, only to be relieved by the rise and fall of his belly.

In the last month of his life, I chose to sleep in the living room with him. I set up a single mattress so I could be there at a moment’s notice if he needed me. Though he could no longer cuddle next to me, he would shift positions throughout the night, sometimes needing help to lie comfortably.

We sensed that his time was drawing near, so we took him to his favorite places and treated him to his favorite foods. We kept outings brief to avoid straining his body, but seeing him happy brought us immense joy.

The Hardest Decision

As Drby showed signs of extreme discomfort, his back legs weakened, trembling and dragging. He became selective with food, only eating bits at a time. Due to his limited mobility, we restricted our outings to short potty breaks, preferring to sit on the balcony together, enjoying the sun and fresh air without distractions.

When the first signs of deterioration appeared, we knew the rest would follow swiftly. We made the heartbreaking decision to call our vet to schedule one last appointment. I had done my research, reaching out to two different vets to understand our options, ensuring that our final moments with Drby would be focused on him, not on difficult choices.

Saying Goodbye

On Drby’s last day, August 17, 2024, the weather was perfect—sunny and warm. We took him around the block in a wagon, where he lay comfortably and took in everything one last time. He looked up at us with a big smile, almost as if he were reassuring us that everything would be okay.

As we packed the car, he calmly basked in the sunlight, no longer excited about car rides as he had been before. Upon arriving at the clinic, he decided to go potty one last time, and for the final time, I carried him inside.

We were the last appointment of the day, and the clinic was quiet. After a final examination, the vet explained the procedure, giving us time to say goodbye. They offered us chocolates to share with Drby as a farewell gesture, but he simply rested his head in my hand, radiating love, as if to say he was ready.

Having prepared myself, we quickly chose an urn and settled everything before the vet administered a mild sedative. Instantly, Drby relaxed, resting his head down. It brought me relief to see him comfortable, even amidst our tears. After the vet took him to insert an IV for the final shot, we had one last moment alone with him.

As the doctor returned, we said our goodbyes, wanting to keep the process swift. My husband stepped out for air, unable to bear witnessing the final shot. The vet provided a heads-up that there could be normal reactions during the final injection, so I remained calm as I held Drby’s paw.

As the purple liquid flowed through the IV, I watched him slip into a peaceful sleep. After confirming there were no signs of life, the vet left us alone. I gave Drby one last head rub and a kiss.

I find solace in believing that he will always be watching over us and any future puppies we may adopt.

 

Rest in Peace, Drby

Rest in peace, Drby. You were the bestest boy and the best teacher, showing us how to love unconditionally. We were so lucky to have you, and we hope you are doing all your favorite things in doggy heaven.