Hi All,
I'm new to this website. I'm looking for some advice on how to make my Golden, Codie, comfortable the last few months of his life. Just a brief story of his health issues . . . 2 years ago (at age 9) he was diagnosed with indolent Lymphoma, which I've had no issues with until now. Three months ago his health began to decline and yesterday, through a Specialist, Codie was diagnosed with kidney failure, liver issues, and a blood clot in his heart (which is preventing blood flow to his hips, so he is struggling walking on his back legs, especially his left side.) His body his failing him. He is 11 years old. It's very difficult for me to watch him slowly decline. One positive is he is still eating, drinking, and has that sparkle in his eye
Codie and I have been through many life obstacles together! I got him when I was still single at 22 years old. We have a bond that I probably will not have with another dog. My husband bought a St. Bernard last fall to help cushion the lose of Codie. It is really cute how Codie has taught Tillie little things, like taking stuffed animals outside, and grabbing a shoe or stuffed animal when we come home. And of course the tail wag
So I'm looking for suggestions on how to keep Codie comfortable the next few months. My husband and I will not let him suffer and know his time is soon. The Oncologist told us 6-8 months, but we will put him down before that time.

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Welcome and I am so sorry to hear about your furbaby.

For his liver issues, I personally would add "Denamarin" a liver strengthening supplement, it also gives the dogs a little pep, makes them feel better. I know, because I give it to my two senior boys. Denamarin can be bought at the vet's office or online, no prescription needed.

What I started a couple of days ago and already have hopeful results from is a "magnetic collar". It is suppose to promote blood flow and help with arthritis issues.
My Golden has arthritis in his elbows. I have already seen an improvement and the surgeon who did his orthopedic surgeries, is all for magnetic collars and beds.

Here is a link to the website where I bought the collar, they also have beds:

Magnetic Pet Collar made in USA

Is your boy in pain? Tramadol may help with that and it is not so hard on kidneys and liver as other pain meds.

Good luck and I hope your Cody improves and has a lot more quality time with you!

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My boys from left to right:
Thunder Dachsi Toby




http://www.goldenretrieverforum.com/...is-issues.html

My Toby, my heart dog 3/12/2003 - 3/30/2013, I miss you Toby!


Christa

First, welcome to the Forum! This is a really good place to be when you are fighting with your dog against the big C (cancer). We have a lot of miracle dogs among us - dogs who have lived months and sometime years longer than their vets expected. I hope and pray that will be the case for your Codie.

Kidney disease is tough, with or without cancer. When my Sabrina was diagnosed with kidney disease at age 3, her doctors said she had 3-6 years. We fought together until she was almost 8, when a diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma made it impossible for her to continue the fight. During our years of battling kidney disease, canned chicken broth was my secret weapon. Mixing it with water made a tempting "soup" that my girl would drink joyfully, keeping her well hydrated and her kidneys well flushed. That kept the demon of renal failure at bay for years of level test results.

The most important thing for you to remember is that Codie doesn't know what lies ahead for him. He knows that you love him and he loves you, and that's pretty much what matters to him. He wants to celebrate every day of his life with you, and that would be good for you, too. This is not an easy path, but you will learn a lot from Codie if you let him live out his life for as long as he has the spirit to fight. You will know when the load is too heavy for him. You will. And we will be here when you and Codie need us.

Hugs and prayers for Codie and for you,
Lucy

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Lucy, owned by Joker and Sunny, who remember Charlie with me
http://www.goldenretrieverforum.com/...years-old.html

I don't have any suggestions for you but I do have good wishes for you and Codie.

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Dis is da gamboi an da Gussee an angels BoBo an Emmikins

"What we have enjoyed we never lose. All that we loved deeply becomes a part of us." Helen Keller

I am so sorry about your Codie, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

I lost my bridge boy almost 2 years ago, he was on Tramadol for pain management. I'd work with your Vet to see what the best pain treatment option would be for him.

Wishing you many days with your boy.