The following web pages are in memory of my very first rottweiler Shayla and my other rottweiler Sydney, both you have experienced osteosarcoma. When Shayla was first diagnosed in November 2002, it all happened so fast that I didn't have a chance to research or have many options for treatment. After grieving the loss of Shayla November 27, 2002, 8 short months later, my next oldest rottweiler, Sydney, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Luckily, I have had a chance to not only do a lot of research, but network with supportive and knowledgable people in order to learn more about this disease and how to fight alongside Sydney, to help him live as long as he can with good quality of life. Unfortunately cancer, especially an aggressive form of cancer such as osteosarcoma, usually wins, no matter how hard the fight is. When I first learned about Sydney's diagnosis, I searched and searched the internet for anything, such as diaries, that chronicled dog's journey with this horrible disease. I found very few and those I did find weren't very helpful when it came down to deciding which treatment option to choose. When I joined the BoneCancerDogs YahooGroups list, I was met with compassion, knowledge, experience and most of all, support. I also found a lot of folks who had written journals or diaries of their experiences. Having those to read helped me feel less hopeless, less helpless. This is my way of helping others who have been so unceremoniously thrown into this journey with their beloved dog. It is somewhat lengthy, but well worth your time. I am also working on a "reader's digest" version of the journal so that those of you who don't have time to read through the entire journal, can get the highlights of Syd's journey on one page. Also, for those of you that would like some good websites for reference, please consider at least visiting the following pages: The CHECKLIST page lists some suggestions on how to proceed once you get the numbing diagnosis. The LINKS page has some great websites you can visit to learn more. Of course the JOURNALS/DIARIES page also has some great webpages of other dogs who have OS and have additional links. And if you live in or near Kansas and need an absolutely wonderful, knowledgable and most importantly compassionate oncologist, please visit the website of Kansas State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in Manhattan, Kansas. It will prepare you for what's ahead. I'm sorry you have to trod this journey, but you are not alone. Good luck and if you have any questions or want more information, feel free to contact me below.
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