Chance is around 12 years old. We got him 6 years ago, well-used, from a rescue group that saves abused hunting beagles.
He was a sickly old bugger when we first got him, lethargic and many infections. Over time he's gotten healthier and more active. Last year we had a scare when he popped a disk in his back, but he recoverred with a bit of a loss in mobility in his hind legs.
Just the same, he's had a ton of energy and bounds around the house, loving every minute. Then he lays down on top of the nearest person, and sleeps with his tongue out. (he had 8 teeth removed last year)
Anyway, over the last few months he's been losing weight, shedding a lot and has a lump on his neck. A cell sample was inconclusive, and his blood work was normal.
The vet thinks he has thyroid cancer, which beagles are more prone to than other breeds.
Tomorrow AM I'm taking him info an xray to see if they can see what's going on, most importantly to see if cancer may have spread to his lungs. He's been coughing more than normal (he's always had a hacking cough). Depending on what they see, we'll get a biopsy of the lump on his neck.
The vet has cautioned that we may just want to ride it out, anything invasive might be too hard on him.
fingers crossed
