Toothpick Link

In early spring 2007 we began to notice what felt like swollen tonsils in our 7 year old beagle/basset mix, Toothpick.  The resulting exam and suspicion of lymphoma by our vet, Dr. Lori Elliott, was shocking and devastating to our family.  Not only were we not prepared for the news our beloved dog could have a deadly disease, but my mother had died from lymphoma just 3 years before. Lymphoma hardly seemed possible or fair in such a young dog; but as we were to discover, this is not uncommon in dogs of middle age.

After a biopsy confirmed our fears, we knew our time with Toothpick was precious and decided to give her the best possible care in hopes of beating the cancer.  This did not include chemo.  I had watched my mother’s 2 year battle, including the ups and downs of chemo and other treatments, end suddenly and sadly, and I knew without a doubt I didn’t want to put my dog through that process. Toothpick’s prognosis wasn’t good.  With chemo, we were told she could live 6-12 months.  Without chemo it would be several weeks at best.  Neither was an acceptable option for our family. 

A caring friend referred me to Christy Blair, a Richmond herbalist and naturopath, as a potential source for some alternative treatments.  Christy was happy to help and immediately set an appointment to meet Toothpick.  She outlined a plan of supplements and care that would become a new norm in our home over the coming months.   Most of the supplements were ordered from a nationally known company and were given to Toothpick in a variety of ways: capsules were opened and sprinkled on her food, drops were dripped into her mouth or her food, oils were rubbed on her coat, and pills were hidden in treats.   It was a learning process for us all.  Over time the supplements would change according to her needs and progress, and we became quite creative in the methods used to give them, according to what Toothpick would and could tolerate.  During the entire process, we were careful to honor Toothpick’s wishes and never forced anything on her.

My 18 and 20 year old sons were initially upset that I would “experiment” on our dog instead of taking her for conventional treatment at the vet.  I assured them I was very serious about Toothpick’s treatment and would continue only as long as it seemed to be helping her.  We all agreed that her quality of life was our top priority.  Dr. Elliott was aware and supportive of my decision to try alternative treatments and assured me she would be ready and available with medical treatments if and when they became necessary. 

In the meantime, Toothpick flourished in many ways.  Except for swollen lymph nodes all over her body, no one would have ever guessed anything was wrong with her.  I had many “talks” with Toothpick and promised I would make sure she got to do and see all of her favorite things, including going to walk every day.  During the summer she went camping with us and swam in the canals near the beach, ran on the back roads chasing frogs and bugs, and chased and played with our other dog, Decker.   She ran, played, ate well, slept well, looked happy and beautiful, and was altogether “herself” for the next 7 months.  She seemed happy to be alive, and we were very thankful to have her in our lives.  During this time we made several additions and adaptations to her supplement program, according to Toothpick’s physical responses, size of her lymph nodes, and her tolerance of the regimen.  Throughout, she responded beautifully and Dr Elliott was thrilled and amazed, repeatedly asking “What program are you following and what supplements is she taking?  I have never seen a dog do so well or live so long without chemo!”  Since then she has referred Christy to several other cancer clients.

In late October it became apparent Toothpick was slowing down.  Her muscle tone was declining and her lymph nodes were swelling larger, forming hard lumps on her body.  In spite of this, her eyes and coat were still bright and shiny, her appetite remained healthy and she still enjoyed her daily walks.  In her final weeks the cancer became more aggressive and Toothpick began sleeping more.  It was only in the final 3 or 4 days that she became physically uncomfortable and Toothpick gave me the sign that she was “ready to go.”  After many tears and thanks for the beautiful and extended time we had together, Toothpick passed away on November 3, 2007.

Toothpick’s lifespan was far too short, but we will always be grateful for the happy-go-lucky dog who brought so much joy and laughter to our family.  I believe we honored her will and her spirit by giving her the best final months we could.  She did not have multiple vet or hospital visits, chemo, or other invasive treatments.  We are very thankful for the support, encouragement, and care she received from Christy Blair, Dr. Elliott, and Shady Grove Animal Clinic.  Through the use of herbal and natural remedies, and plenty of positive encouragement, Toothpick lived happily and normally for 7 months.  I believe that was the greatest gift we could give her, for she certainly deserved it.