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Unlike so many of our previous featured patients the final
outcome for "Lucky" Woodcock is extremely poor.
Unfortunately for her she has a confirmed diagnosis of lung
cancer.
Originally presented by her owner due to the development
of a cough it gradually became clear that her condition
was far more serious than any form of a respiratory infection.A
poor response to initial therapy, X-rays and finally a needle
biopsy confirmed our suspicions that she had a terminal
illness.
At almost 16 years of age Lucky has been just so! Treasured
by her owner she has been a faithful and devoted companion.
She has a beautiful temperament, has always been a pleasure
to examine in my consulting room and is a dog I would be
glad to own myself.
Nevertheless, her condition is such that palliative treatment
is all we can sensibly offer to make her remaining months
as comfortable as possible. Certainly, at present that level
of comfort is extremely high.
As a veterinary surgeon, unlike my medical colleagues,
I am privileged to be able to end her suffering should that
situation arise. The key to performing that task is all
about exercising that privilege to Lucky's advantage, ensuring
that her quality of life is kept to an acceptable level
until we are no longer able to do so. In the meantime Lucky
and her owner can concentrate on maximising the enjoyment
that remains.
I also have no doubt that when the time comes Lucky's owner
will be able to make that decision on Lucky's behalf. Is
Lucky aptly named............of that I am in no doubt.
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