I am so sorry to hear about Oliver. These decisions are very difficult to make. I lost Boo to acute pancreatitis on 3/17/23. Although he was 20.4 years old and lived a long life, I opted to hospitalize and give maximum treatment. His symptoms appeared over night. At the tme, I brought him to the hospital my vet gave a 50-50 chance of recovery with a five day hospitalization, due to his advanced age. They did do extensive workup and supportive care. However, he only lasted one night.
Looking back, I dont think I would have done anything differently, as a 50-50 chance was enough to give me hope of even another six months or year with him. Further, he had totally recovered from a hospitalization for a stroke at age 19. So, I thought that he could fight the pancreatitis.
In your case, with very risky surgery, it would be a more difficult decision to make. Have you considered home hospice? if you decide surgery and chemo are not a good option. I have met several people, who have opted for that route, when there is cancer. It involves providing supportive care in the home with the assistance of a veterinarian and veterinary technician.
Looking back, I dont think I would have done anything differently, as a 50-50 chance was enough to give me hope of even another six months or year with him. Further, he had totally recovered from a hospitalization for a stroke at age 19. So, I thought that he could fight the pancreatitis.
In your case, with very risky surgery, it would be a more difficult decision to make. Have you considered home hospice? if you decide surgery and chemo are not a good option. I have met several people, who have opted for that route, when there is cancer. It involves providing supportive care in the home with the assistance of a veterinarian and veterinary technician.
