by Addison and Emily Edmonds, Gunner Co-Founders

Meet Goose, our seven-year-old Goldendoodle. Most of you know Gunner (the face of the company) but Goose is his younger ‘sister’ who managed to stay under the radar — and although her name is not always in the limelight, she too is a HUGE part of our family’s story.

Sadly, Goose was diagnosed with Canine Lymphoma. She is currently undergoing chemotherapy @BluePearlHospitalFranklin. Dr. Lucas and her team have been incredible to work with considering the circumstance.

Turns out Lymphoma is one of the more common cancers found in dogs. We would like to share our story with you and encourage others to share theirs as well so that we all may have a better understanding.

Although we do not know how long we have left with our sweet Goose, you bet we are soaking in every moment with her.

Below is a timeline of significant events for Goose.

CANCER TIMELINE

JAN 2018: Goose is having a hard time walking up and down stairs to go outside. Noticeable swelling in her neck and paws. Vet appointment is scheduled.

JAN 22, 2018: Vet performs test and confirms the worst; cancer. Refers us to @BluePearlHospitalFranklin

JAN 25, 2018 Meet with the oncologist to discuss options. We are given the choice of 3 levels of treatment.

*Doctor predicts 3 weeks of life expectancy if left untreated.

LATER THAT DAY: We choose the most aggressive treatment option known as the “Madison Wisconsin Protocol.” This protocol involves weekly treatments for two months, then every other week treatments for an additional four months. Goose is immediately given her first treatment. Our journey begins…

FEB 1, 2018: Goose shows noticeable change almost immediately. However, she requires medication to help with her digestive issues from the chemo. The swelling in her neck has disappeared and she is certainly back on her feet.

*We increased the amount of raw food into her diet.

FEB 2018: Follow up appointment following her first round of chemo. Goose has lost 5 pounds of cancer mass. Appearing to be back to her old self.

MARCH 2018: Goose returns for more treatment. Signs of improvement continues.

APRIL 2018: Technically in remission but still doing bi-weekly Chemo treatments.

JUNE 2018: (EDITED THIS POST TO INCLUDE) Our Goose fought the good fight and passed away. Please read our letter to her here.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Many dogs treated with chemotherapy don’t suffer much in the way of serious side effects like humans.
• Most dogs will not lose their fur during chemotherapy.
• There is no “cure” for Canine Lymphoma, however, therapy can significantly improve prognosis.