If your dog has been diagnosed with cancer and will be going through chemo, it's time to prepare a plan of action. Your dog will need lots of care during their treatment. The first thing you need to do is set up a specific treatment plan with your veterinarian. From there, you'll need to take steps at home to keep your dog as comfortable as possible. Here are four steps that will help you to care for your dog as they go through chemo.
Increase the Love
If your dog has cancer, you need to increase the love. An abundance of loving attention will help to keep your dog calm during this difficult time. It's important to remember that your dog won't understand what's going on. They just know that they don't feel well. Increasing the loving attention you give them will soothe your dog's suffering.
Create a Support Team
Now that your dog has been diagnosed with cancer, it's time to create a strong support team. Of course, the team starts with the veterinarian, but it should go beyond that. First, you'll need a veterinary oncologist. Your dog's oncologist will ensure that the right treatment plan is implemented. Next, you'll need to find friends and family members who will care for your dog when you can't be home. Finally, you'll need a grief counselor for you and your family. A grief counselor can help you work through the emotions you experience as your dog goes through chemo.
Understand Their Pain Levels
If your dog has cancer, they're going to experience some pain. At times, that pain might be intense. Unfortunately, your dog can't use words to express their discomfort. It's up to you to understand their pain levels. Understanding their pain levels will help you to provide the right pain relief. During the first few days of treatment, watch your dog. Changes in their behavior throughout the day will help you to identify changes in their pain level. Keep a pain journal so that you can refer back to it as needed. If your dog is on pain medication, talk to your veterinarian about changes. There may come a time when additional pain medication is needed.
Make Life Comfortable at Home
Finally, if your dog has been diagnosed with cancer, make life as comfortable as possible at home. This may require you to make some changes, such as elevating food and water bowls so that your dog doesn't need to bend as much. It may also mean that you need to get your dog a new bed. Cushioned support will give your dog the comfort they need while they rest.
Contact an animal hospital to learn more.
I have never been in love with the idea of owning animals, but a few years ago my son came home with some puppies that he was already really attached to. He swore he would take good care of the animals, so I gave in and let him keep them. Unfortunately, one of them became ill, and I had to find a way to take care of the animal. I decided to visit a veterinarian for help, and we had a diagnosis in a treatment plan in no time. I was really surprised with how powerful veterinary care was, and it was phenomenal. Read this blog to learn more.