My senior dog is starving, weak, and has cancer. How to comfort him?

Question

Our 15yr old jack Russell Terrior is starving himself. Can feel ribs, spine etc. Started feeding him chicken, yogurt, soft food. Doesn't eat much of it, very lathargic. Woobbley and weak to walk. We just want to make him comfortable.. He has large lumps on his neck, I'm sure it's cancer. His sibling all have died from cancer. Stool is mucus, small soft balls and as of today, drips of blood. He does not seem in pain, not moaning, crying, whining etc. Advice about keeping him comfortable. Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 14 years and 6 months old | 10 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

If Taxx is refusing to eat, that could definitely be a sign of pain and discomfort. Unless you are planning on force-feeding him and syringing him water, he will absolutely continue to waste away. In terms of keeping him comfortable, I would just be sure that if he is wobbly and trying to walk, be there to support his weight in case he is falls. There are medications available to stimulate the appetite, and other meds potentially to make him less nauseous if he is experiencing any. I would take him in for an exam first to see what your veterinarian has to say, Unfortunately, this sounds to me like a situation or illness, that is advanced. If your vet concurs that he isn't eating due to discomfort, you may be faced with the choice that no pet owner ever wants to consider. There are pain medications but I don't usually recommend them in a situation like this. I try to ask people to consider if their dog still is able to do some / any of the activities he once enjoyed. If the answer is no, then this an indication there is a total absence of quality of life. Anyway, ultimately my advise is to have him looked at to see if your vet considers some of the types of meds I mentioned as viable options. Hope this all makes sense.

My senior dog is starving, weak, and has cancer. How to comfort him?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share