Coping with my dog whilst on medication

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I live alone so my dog is really important to me , she takes me out and we meet a lot of people and make friends because of her sunny and outgoing nature. I am about to start on new medication which will lower my immune systgem, and one of the nurses warned me "you will have to be very careful around your dog" which really worried me, but the oncologist didn't seem to think it would be a problem. Has anyone else been given advice on what you can do or can't do with your dog or other pets other than obviously basic hygiene?

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi Yares welcome to the forum. Your post raises an important topic that of the place of pets in our ongoing recovery. There is much evidence to suggest that stroking a dog can reduce blood pressure. I'm thinking of the importance of your dog to you and how much of a benefit they are going to be for you. However, your immune system will be compromised as a result of the medication and that makes you more vulnerable to any parasites or issues that dogs present with. That said you have said it yourself about basic hygeine. The level of hygiene may need to be stepped up when touching your dog for a littleHeartwhile. However, think of all the cuddles and big hugs when you are finished your treatment..I'm not entirely sure if I answered your query but if you wanted to speak to someone you can always give the Macmillan Line a call as they may have information they could share. 08088080000. Best wishes Heart️ Gail xxx

  • Thank you so much for your reply. I think I'll just have to be as sensible as I can, I'll be on the medication for 3 years which is a long time out of a dog's life (and mine) and I do not want to change my relationship with her - I am solely responsible for her and all she has. She has all her worming and flea treatment, vaccinations etc regularly from the vet and also goes to the dog groomer every 6 weeks. I did look at some in for from Macmillan which said "you can touch your pet but you must wash your hands".

  • Hi Yares,  I am presuming you mean Ribociclib?   I am on 600mg a day and have four dogs.  I have not changed my routine whatsoever and have been fine.  My dogs are my reason for getting up in the morning, I would not be without them.  It sounds like your girl means same to you.  Nobody has mentioned anything to me and oncologist knows I have four dogs so you should be fine x

  • Yes Ribociclib. Thank you Leelaloo. That's reassuring, I would not be without her. It seems to me that people 'lose' so much physically and emotionally and lifestyle during the treatment of cancer. Take care x