He still loves to lay in the Ivy!
He is scared of the water and would probably make a terrible hunting dog! He is a big baby and loves to sit on laps. When I brought home a 1 week old kitten 2 years ago he stepped up and took over the role of momma cat. He cleaned her, protected her, and tolerated it when she tried to nurse from him. He is still the most nurturing and we always know who the culprit is when one of the 3 cats is soaking wet, "grooming session with Benson!" someone will laugh and say.
I started working at the vet 6 years ago so sadly I am used to seeing dogs with cancer. No matter the age or breed of dog its never easy watching an owner receive a diagnosis. Their shock and initial panic, followed by their debate and decision to pursue treatment or not - which is sadly often determined by their financial situation - leaves you feeling helpless. Nothing can prepare a person for the news that their beloved family member only has 6 months left to live. Or that it will cost upwards of $6,000 for treatment that may not work. Not long ago I was reading an article in a veterinary journal that said 1 in 4 dogs will be diagnosed with cancer. I remember being surprised and commenting on the high number to one of the doctors I work with. I didn't realize not long after that day, Benson would be diagnosed with cancer.
During a rectal exam Dr. Scalco discovered a large mass. With her finger in his rear end, she suddenly had a worried look on her face and the moment she asked "did you know about this mass?", my stomach dropped. She had Dr. Fu come in and feel the mass before they did a fine needle aspirate to send to the lab for diagnosis.
As I stood there sobbing, everyone in the office told me not to panic, it might not be anything to worry about! They said they would keep their fingers crossed and pray for him, but we all knew it probably wasn't going to be good news.
After the longest 24 hours of my life we received the lab report, Benson had an anal gland adenocarcinoma.
Suddenly I was that shocked owner, the one who never thought their pet would have cancer! The one who is suddenly overcome with fear, and panic. The one who despite all of my experience, still looked at my coworkers (his primary vet) for guidance and instruction. "He can't have cancer, he isn't even acting sick!" I would say, while sitting at work staring at the cytology report, but i knew I had to accept it.
Everything happened so quickly, it was overwhelming and I felt lost. Luckily I work with some amazing people who also love Benson, and they immediately reassured me that we would get through this together.
So this is Bensons journey through cancer treatment…
I will update frequently with news and information on his health and treatment plan. Please keep him in your thoughts and send him good vibes!
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