PHONE: 303-231-9933 or Toll Free 800-245-9081 • Email Us
Celebrating Life - Esta
Esta
The day after Easter 2010, I noticed my 5 year old golden retriever, Esta, having trouble swallowing her food. I was able to get an appointment with Dr. Mitchell, her veterinarian, that afternoon. She was given an antibiotic and I was told if she was not better in a week to call him back. She did not respond to the anti-biotic and swelling in her jar area was noticeable. The next two weeks included two more office visits, a biopsy, and a consultation with another veterinarian. I received a phone call from Dr. Mitchell on the morning of April 28, 2010 informing me that Esta's biopsy indicated hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer in the blood cells. Dr. Mitchell made the referral to South Carolina Veterinary Specialist and thankfully Esta was able to be seen by the oncologist within a few hours.
We met with Dr. Pam Lucas who clearly explained the disease as well as the medical options available. CAT scans, MRI's, digital radiography, advanced radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery to just name a few. I was very surprised at the many medical options available to furry children! This veterinary practice along with another one in Greenville, South Carolina are in constant contact with leading veterinary schools so that their patients are offered the best, most advanced medical care. I learned so much about the field of veterinary medicine while going through this with Esta. I grew up having pets and my love of dogs has continued into my adult years. I was not aware that so many pets get cancer, as well as other medical illnesses. Who knew that cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over 10? Esta was only 5 years old! What I came to learn is that cancer is the leading cause of death in Golden Retrievers. I find myself questioning how God can make such a lovable, loyal, self-confident, and friendly dog and this breed battles cancer at such high rates. What I discovered is that there are outstanding veterinary schools in our country that teach the most advanced medical information to its students. The students become specialized doctors and offer the best medical treatment to our furry children while balancing their quality of life.
During the time she received medical treatment, her love for eating never diminished. She was introduced to new foods to help build her immune system (Kefir, liver, ice cream, cottage cheese, and raw carrots to name a few). Her diva side became more pronounced as she refused to go to the bathroom in the backyard. This resulted in me taking her on walks three times a day in the heat and humidity of a southern summer! She continued playing enthusiastically with her furry mate (my other dog) as well as flirting with a new, unfamiliar male dog in the waiting area of the oncologist's office (and getting us both put in time out!) and socializing with patrons at Starbucks! Her days were not marked with doom and gloom but she was surrounded by caring, competent medical professionals that extended her joyful life. To quote Dr. Pam Lucas "she battled a very aggressive cancer with a joy for life and a smile on her face."
