The new normal

Burke 8.3.15, notice the cat hair on his nose.

It's been 10 days since Burke's first CCNU treatment.  CCNU or Lomustine works by stopping or slowing the growth of cancer cells.  According to Canine Lymphoma.com, CCNU "has about a 40% to 45% percent remission response rate, with the average patient going into remission for a period of 4 months from the date you start treatment depending on where a patient is on their treatment (e.g., how long they responded to their initial treatment protocol, etc.)."  These are not great odds given Burke's initial response to treatment.

Burke seem to be stabled; not in remission but not getting noticeably worse.  His lymph nodes, especially his left lymph node are still enlarged.  However, he's up to three short walks a day and he's interactive with a moderate appetite. Next Monday, August 10th, he has a visit with the oncologist and his next antibody treatment. I want to know if there are any changes in his cell blood count and why he's not on a liver protectant.  I've noticed that Burke has some discharge in his eyes. Yesterday he had diarrhea which I thought might be caused by the rotisserie chicken and liver he ate, but today he seems more lethargic than yesterday.  

We constantly monitor Burke's health and worry when we notice any changes, however, everyday with Burke is a happy day.  We love to cuddle with him, play tug-a-war, and watch him eat! He gets a new toy every time I go to the store and lots of special treats fed from the table.  All the rules are gone and we have one very spoiled flat-coated retriever that we love very much.