Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has lymphoma. Chemo or prednisone: Quality vs. quantity?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 11 years and 5 months old | 76 lbs

my 11 year old golden doodle just got diagnosed with lymphoma. He gets very anxious going to the vet. Vet said chemotherapy is about $1500 to $2000. Our options seem to be prednisone for 2 more months of life or chemo for maybe a year. TOUGH choice. Quality over quantity of life?? Thanks for any input.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 13th, 2017

I am very sorry that Benny has been diagnosed with Lymphoma. My heart truly goes out to you both. First of all know there is no wrong answer here, whichever you chose for your Benny he will be kept as happy and as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. The doses of chemotherapy used in dogs are smaller then those used in humans, therefore the side effects tend to be lowered. Dogs do not generally become as ill as a human undergoing chemotherapy does. Benny has lived a very long and I am sure happy life with you. A year can be a gift on top of that life, as can a further 2 months. I know the decision to let go of one of our pets is incredibly challenging as you move forward with either treatment keep that in mind that as veterinarians we strive for a quality of life for the pets we see. If you believe that Benny is still happy and has a good quality of life, then there isn't a reason to let go of him yet. It can be difficult to be objective when it comes to our own pets, so discussing with other people in Benny's life as well as using a quality of life index can be helpful. A quality of life index, like the one at the link below, asks you questions in order to obtain a quality of life score. It is advised that you take the test three times on three separate days. It is also helpful to have others who know Benny well answer the questions. The aim is for a score above 35, however, it is only a guide and ultimately you and Benny's veterinarian understand great situation better then anyone else. http://www.aplb.org/resources/quality-of-life_scale.php I wish you the warmest regards in this decision. I can't advise what is the right choice for you. But if it were my dog and finances allowed I would want to try for the extra year given by chemotherapy. Mainly because I believe you would have more healthy time with him in this scenario, whereas with using on prednisolone he will continue to deteriorate from this point on. But as I mentioned there is no wrong answer. You are doing him well in either situation. In either situation you will treasure the time you have left together. I would be will be very difficult when the time does come, but try to focus on the love you two shared, and the memories you made to create a beautiful lif for dear Benny

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I am so sorry that your dog has lymphoma. That is always a tough choice but if he gets anxious going to the vet then it might be best to choose quality over quantity, especially if it would require frequent visits to the vet. Personally, I would enjoy the 2 months with less anxiety and stress but it really is a personal choice. I am so sorry that you are faced with making this tough decision.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My bird has PFBD. Is chest trembling a normal sign or a symptom?
Cloudy has PFBD and chest trembling. Is this normal? A certified Vet Tech explains potential secondary issues like infections and advises vet consultation for testing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored