Day 20
Over the last week Jay had one day where his stomach was upset, but with some anti-nausea medicine he didn’t miss any meals. He also felt well enough to play ball every day! Seven days after his first treatment Jay’s blood count was checked, because some chemotherapy drugs can drop the body’s white blood cell count. This may leave the patient open to infection. Jay’s blood count was just a little low so it was decided to wait a couple more days before his next treatment.
Day 22
Looking and feeling his normal self, Jay came to SAH for his second chemotherapy treatment. First his body was supported with some fluids, and then he took an oral dose of a third chemotherapy drug. Jay didn’t even know he was being medicated as the pills were put in his favorite “Pill Pockets”! His friend Katie walked him every few hours to help his body metabolize the medicine. Jay didn’t care why, he just enjoyed the walks!

Day 15, update on Jay. We decided to take Jay for an oncology consolation at Metropolitan Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Services in Louisville, Ky. There, Dr. Scott Campbell directed as Dr. Emily Tincher (Abby’s sister and Jay’s great friend) performed an ultrasound of Jay’s abdomen. After a thorough exam Jay was pronounced clear of liver, spleen or intestinal involvement. Then, as Jay enjoyed his favorite treats, Dr. Campbell administered his first chemotherapy.  Jay had a full day of visiting and playing with friends. After that he ate a good dinner and slept well with Abby.

“Jay’s Story”
 
Dear Friends,
                For the past 22+ years we have stood with you as partners in health for your special furry friends. Some of the choices we’ve made together have been difficult, some of the stories sad. But where there is a life there is hope. Now we have decided to invite you to accompany us on a journey of hope, one we will call “Jay’s Story.”
                Fade Away Jay came o us 8 & ½ years ago as 6 week pup when our youngest daughter, Abby, reminded us she had never had a dog “all her own.” Jay is her constant companion and sleeps with her every night, or at least every night that she is home. When Abby stays at a friend’s house, Jay moves into Mom and Dad’s room. 
                Two weeks ago, Dr. Pat was rubbing Jay’s face and neck, his favorite thing, when his hands stopped because there was something different. The lymph nodes under his jaw were large. So the next day Jay came to Scottsville Animal Hospital (S.A.H) for an exam. Bloodwork was run and it all looked great. Then a needle was used to take some cells out of the large lymph nodes to send to the lab. Jay was very brave but the report wasn’t good: “Suspicious for Lymphoma.” It took Mom and Dad a few days to get the courage to tell Abby. But there was so much to be done to give Jay the best chance of survival!
                On day 8, Jay underwent surgery at S.A.H to remove the large lymph nodes, for further staging and to help reduce tumor load. His chest x-rays that day looked clear and he came through surgery very well.  On day 9 we started Jay on a protocol of supplements from Standard Process to keep his body strong. On day 13; the lab report was back. Confirmation: Lymphoma- high grade, probable T-cell, special Stain pending to confirm.