Should I agree to a second dog (pup) while on cancer treatment?

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I have stage 4 breast cancer, we already got a dog (male springer spaniel 4 y/o) before my diagnosis 2 years ago. I'm on ribociclib and letrozole (tablets), first line.

My husband has been offered a puppy, 3 months old - a female black Labrador/pointer cross (small/runt of litter). He's very keen on taking her in and would love another dog. Our existing dog has epilepsy.

Although the idea of a friend for my existing dog is a lovely one, I feel that another dog is too much for me to cope with. I can't walk the dog due to bone mets, and try to manage fatigue. I'm also concerned about the extra pet insurance and costs.

I'm worried that another dog, especially a puppy, is the wrong thing for me, due to being immunosuppressed, and ongoing cancer treatment. But I don't want to upset the others.

What do other people think?

  • Hi njl welcome to the forum. It seems that there are a few good points and not so good points getting another dog..I think it maybe needs an honest conversation about how you are feeling and laying down some rules about the care, walking the dog etc. Would that make any difference. Having another dog I wouldn't have thought would have been any worse than having one dog in that respect. People around you and in contact with the dogs are going to need to be meticulous with hand hygeine when dealing with the animals. Or you just put your foot down and say no more dogs until after my treatment finishes.. I wish you well whatever you decide to do Gail x