Jazz goes to the vet – why I’m scared

My fun-loving, happy, snuggler of a dog named Jazz has an appointment today, late afternoon for his regular six-month check-up with his onocologist. Jazz will be receiving his booster melanoma vaccine after successfully getting rid of cancer in his gum after being diagnosed in November 2011, almost two years to the day. We were very fortunate to have this lump discovered during a dental cleaning because it was caught in Stage I. It did not spread to his lymph nodes. Always the best news you want to hear!

He goes regularly for chest x-rays as well. He has had a clean bill of health since his surgery and radiation in 2011-2012.

Jazz was and is a great patient whenever he goes for his check-ups. There have been no issues of which to be concerned since he finished his radiation therapy sessions.

So, why am I scared this time? Had you asked me if I was scared two weeks ago, my answer would have been a resounding no.

Jazz was to go for his regular visit to the oncologist two weeks ago. Unfortunately, circumstances prevented that and I rescheduled for today.

In the interim, my husband and I noticed he had problems picking up one of his balls that he loves to chase last Wednesday or Thursday. He didn’t allow that to deter hiim from grabbing and chewing on them, then giving a hint with his eyes that he wants me to throw it.

My worries increased grew as I tried to open his mouth to see what, if anything, was wrong. While trying to open his mouth, he yelped. Something hurts him but I have no idea what it is.

I’ve tried numerous times to look inside his mouth.  He has allowed me to do so with no yelping but I still was unable to see anything.

Whatever problem he has with his mouth, it happens to be in the exact same area where his original melanoma was discovered. I think you can connect the dots to understand my fears.

Upon closer observation, I noticed his outer lip is swollen. I watch as he winces or tries to move his head as I’m touching the area. I looked at his gums to possibly see if he has an abscessed tooth. With what I saw, I didn’t see any inflamed gums but I also didn’t see his teeth clearly.

He has no other symptoms to suggest anything else. He has no loss of appetite, weight loss, bleeding, excessive drooling, lameness- nothing! He has been playful as he always has been. Nothing in his behavior or habits has suggested that something is wrong. I know every nuance when it comes to Jazz. I notice the most minute changes.

I hope we receive good news later as his oncologist checks him. If he has a dental problem, it will be taken care of properly.

If the news is not good, well, let’s wait to see and hear what the oncologist says.

I love my pets as my kids. I know so many others can relate. I’ve been through so much with my “kids” in the last couple of years. I can’t deal with the thought of Jazz going through this again.

In the end, I will always do what is right for him. I only pray he is okay. He has to be.