Phase Three: Diagnosis and Treatment

Ok, a few things have gone on since Foster's emergency room visit and incision dramas.  Pretty much all good!

Even with a cone on, and antibiotics in his stomach, Foster has been feeling pretty good.  He's been rather picky about eating, and has decided he no longer likes sweet potatoes.  He's loved them for two years, but now, or at least while he is antibiotic-filled, he says, "Um, no thanks."  I mean, who wouldn't want to eat this?

Kibble, brown rice, bone broth and baked sweet potato

Foster's favorite meal lately is eggs with sardines, so that is what he is healing with, as well as chicken, no rice, just chicken thank you very much, Lady.  He knows I'll feed him whatever he wants, and Luna and Atticus have had no problem eating Foster's "leftovers"!

The Diagnosis:
Foster had a Mast Cell Tumor of Medium Grade.  Specific immunocytology provided information on three markers which show he does not have a genetic issue, but the tumor is aggressive.  It has been removed, and just a few years ago, surgical removal would have been all that could have been done, but now there are a few more options that increase survivability to over 80%.

The Treatment Plan:
Foster will begin chemotherapy next Wednesday.  He will receive 8 treatments over 3 months and should be cured.  Cured.  Most dogs tolerate the one drug administered through a "quick push," not an IV drip, very well, and they do not lose their hair.  If there is intolerance, Foster may experience some diarrhea.  It is not a given response, but if he does respond with diarrhea, there are drugs to give to support him.

We are also scheduled for a Nutritional Consult to go over the home cooking plan, which I've decided to supplement with kibble, as well as supplements and herbal remedies to support Foster through treatment.  I will continue the home cooking for everyone even once Foster is healed, and I will give supplements to everyone to support The Pack's immunity and overall health!

I feel a little stressed about what is to come, but also calm because we have the choice to do this.  Foster is such a champ, I feel confident he will manage treatment with the sweetness and strength he manages everything.  He is feeling great and doing great.  He is our Super Foster Dog!