Older pets sometimes require difficult decisions
Dear Dr. Fox • My wife and I adopted an 11-year-old "doxiepoo" (dachshund-poodle) named Andy. We understand that this breed lives from 11 to 15 years. Unfortunately, Andy probably won't make it to 15.
A trip to the vet revealed that Andy has Cushing's disease, which explains his constant thirst and need to urinate, and the loss of hair on his hips. The vet explained that the treatment of choice is weekly chemotherapy that is not without risk; will not extend his life but will control symptoms, such as frequent urination; and is very expensive, especially in the beginning when dosage is being determined.
Even if cost were not an issue, we are reluctant to put him through the rigors and risk of chemo for essentially our convenience — we can handle the urination. We are thinking that the best way to handle this condition is to let it run its course, and as long as Andy seems to be enjoying himself, he'll have a loving home with us. Perhaps this is an unwise choice.
