Duke is our 8 year old Weimaraner who was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma more than 2 years ago. At that time, we were told we had 3 to 6 MONTHS with him at the most. Duke has been my best buddy for too long to let someone else decide how much time we had left together.
I did extensive research to find a way to prolong Duke's life, but maintain the quality of his life. The last thing I wanted to do was make him suffer - at all. The tumor was in the back of his mouth and spread across more than half of his upper palate. X-rays also confirmed it was growing back toward his brain. Initial surgery got most of the tumor, but not near all of it. We decided to make the 3 ½ hour drive to NC State University for a consultation and then for 19 treatments of radiation therapy.
During this time, I also found information on McDowells herbal treatments and started speaking with the staff about Duke's condition.
They not only answered my emails, but they called me! I was so surprised to hear someone say 'G'day!' in that wonderful Australian accent. It was apparent McDowell's Herbal Treatment company wanted to do everything possible to help us. We decided the best route for us was radiation and herbal treatments combined. Radiation was hard... for all of us, but mostly for Duke. He endured emergency trips to the local Vet Hospital due to a new feeding tube. He had only a feeding tube for nearly 6 weeks and lost a tremendous amount of weight. He suffered radiation burns in his mouth which still make it kind of hard to drink. Through it all, his tail kept wagging as always. My tell-'tail' sign that he's doing okay despite how things look.
Now, 2 years and 2 months later, Duke is still the same happy, lovable puppy he has always been. Since treatment, we have only used the Maritime Pine Bark and SCC Support program for Duke. The vet is amazed at how well Duke is doing and has told us repeatedly to 'keep doing what we're doing' because his outcome has been amazing. Duke loves getting his 'special sandwich' twice a day, and we never miss a dose!
Duke runs, plays, cuddles, gives hugs and kisses, and torments his sister every chance he gets. He also has had the chance to play with my son who is 2 years and one month old. Now, we have pictures and keepsakes we would have never had if I would have only listened to the veterinarian. They just didn't know then what we know now about these herbal remedies. I truly/ believe we owe Duke's health and life to Robert and his team. They are kind, responsive, they care and they make a difference.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for Duke's life.
