cute. but trouble.
// 2008.11.14Oh Merry, please can we stop scaring your momma once a year?
A few weeks ago a bump that Merry's had for years started acting up and we took her in to see the vet, and it came back diagnosed as a mast cell tumour. A needle biopsy showed that it was a very good kind of tumour, with clearly defined cells and an early assumption of benign - though, if you do your reading as I do, "they" say that there's really no such thing as benign mast cell tumours and that they all have to be treated quickly and with a degree of seriousness.
We've been back and forth with appointments, tests and questions, surgeons and vets. While the surgeon we met with was very competent and reassured me greatly, the truth is we just can't afford him - yes, I pay through the wazoo for Merry's health insurance but since the eye operation last year, she's down to only 50% coverage and, given this new development, I'm assuming she's going to stay there for another year or two at least.
So, it's back to the vet next week to discuss doing it in the vet's office. Thankfully, we have the world's most wonderful vet - she has been, literally, a lifesaver for Merry. We won't really know any more about the seriousness - or not - of the tumour until it's removed and properly sliced, diced and examined.
I am hoping we can arrange for her surgery next week. I'm assuming it will be at least an overnight stay after the surgery, and I'm not clear on the recuperation time yet.
It really hasn't been a good fall for our family! Health issues abounding, and it's made for a very stressful environment. :(
I will, however, keep you all posted!
Oh, Merry! Poor baby girl. We hope and pray that this turns out to be nothing to worry about at all. Lots of kisses from one pug to another!
1 : Maggie : November 14, 2008 4:17 PM
Awwwww, don't worry, Merry will pull through like a trooper. We all love her and our prayers will be sent in droves for a speedy recovery and peace of mind. Health issues abound, but your mom seemed to pull through with ease and grace and Merry will to.
Pug hugs and kisses from Bunkin and Pudge to Merry and a big hug from one pug mom to another!
2 : Marie : November 14, 2008 4:22 PM
Oh Angie, you have had your share this year alright! Merry is such a lucky pup to have you - I think that she chose you because she knew you could take such good care of her! Sending you many pugs and kisses from our family to yours (bring it on, 2009 - it's bound to be better!):)
3 : Robyn : November 14, 2008 4:35 PM
Merry, precious spirit, you will always be safe, because you are loved by so many.
4 : Lucinda : November 14, 2008 7:02 PM
My prayers and thoughts are with you. And Merry you really are too cute. :o)
5 : Allyson : November 14, 2008 11:35 PM
Kisses from my pug to yours. We discovered a bump on my pug and got it looked at and later removed. She ended up having 7 mass cell tumors and is still living. This happened February of this year! I hope Merry goes through with it all well and a happy Thanksgiving to you both!
6 : Hanna : November 15, 2008 8:55 AM
Merry: We are sending positive thoughts for a speedy recovery. Take care little girl!
Michele & Gus
7 : Michele : November 15, 2008 9:19 AM
Our pug, Piewhackit, was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor back in the summer of 2005...it was borderline "dirty" as it had ever so slightly infiltrated the muscle. She had surgery to remove it and about 2 months of weekly chemo for good measure. We, too have a wonderful vet...Pie has been going in for monthly to bi-monthly check-ups to make sure all is well.
Merry will be fine...just need to keep an eye on it from here on out for good measure and peace of mind. We'll be sending positive thoughts your way!
8 : Susan : November 15, 2008 9:40 AM
Hang in there. It's only bound to get better! And I wanted to share this link:
On a interview about my blog I made a big shout out to Pampered Puppy:
http://katydidandkid.blogspot.com/2008/11/friday-featured-blog-momtrends.html
Big hug,
Nicole
9 : Nicole Feliciano : November 15, 2008 11:06 AM
Sending my best wishes to your family! My pug has had some serious problems from the getgo and I know how helpless one can feel. I'm sure she will pull through in style!
xo
10 : Jessie : November 15, 2008 2:21 PM
PRAYER TO ST. FRANCIS FOR OUR PETS
Good St. Francis, you loved all of God's creatures.
To you they were your brothers and sisters.
Help us to follow your example of treating every living thing with kindness.
St. Francis, Patron Saint of animals, watch over merry (and all pets, especially those with a health problem)and keep our companions safe and healthy.
Amen.
daily prayers coming your way, also please pray for my little mable precious, she needs to have a chest x-ray this week...has been having some minor breathing problems. she's a 8-year-old black teacup pug, rescued from a puppy mill and has already had major hip surgery as well as lyme disease.
my thoughts, prayers, blessings and ++++++++++++++++++ energy are with all of you.
11 : nadine : November 16, 2008 9:50 AM
One thing I have learned from living my pugger (who spends a ridiculous amount of time at the vet's office with her medical issues) is that Pugs are tough cookies!
I have faith that Merry will get through this, and will still be smiling!
12 : kristie kulik : November 17, 2008 11:47 AM
My pug Cheetos (he's 4) had a mast cell tumor as well which was also biopsied similar to Merry's and we left it for a while and the vet removed it when he went in for a teeth cleaning. No use putting them under anesthetic more than you have too, so try not to worry....I know, easier said than done right?
13 : Leona : November 17, 2008 1:03 PM
Sending prayers for Miss Merry's health and that she will be back to her normal, silly-girl self in no time. The little Princess Pug will be fine, just take it one day at a time. Keep positive thoughts in your mind and keep Merry warm with your love and her cute pink overcoat.
14 : Mary : November 17, 2008 1:13 PM
Can you tell us where the bump is? I am just curious...
15 : nan : November 17, 2008 1:53 PM
Sweet girl, I just know you'll be okay. Be strong. Sending you lots of love. xoxo
16 : Stephanie : November 17, 2008 3:49 PM