Rimadyl--bad Side Effects?, This drug really worries me Options

[ladywolf]

Three days ago, my excellent vet put my Ladywolf on Rimadyl, for possible pain connected to large (terminal) cancerous tumors in her groin and leg. I don't know what kind of cancer she has--probably sarcoma of some kind--because the vet and I elected not to do any invasive testing, as it so obviously cancer and cannot be treated at this point, except by me making big changes in her nutrition, which I'm most assuredly doing.

The only major side effect that Lady is showing from the Rimadyl is that she is drinking WAY more water than is normal for her. (Though I think that she might be a bit mopey and droopy too, which she wasn't before starting the drug). So I went off to research this medication, and from all that I read about it, I am now scared of it. It's been known to cause immediate DEATH after just one dose in some animals. It's known for causing kidney and liver failure very quickly too. There are tons of bad side-effects possible, and lots of pet owners think the drug is a horror!

And...lots of animals do really well on it and never develop any noticeable side effects. I'm wondering what kind of experiences you on this Forum may have had with this med? I find that I'm reluctant to give Lady any more of it, after all that I've learned about it. But I don't want to deprive Ladywolf of something that might really help her, either.
Any experience or knowledge you can share would be gratefully appreciated. Thanks.

Margi and Ladywolf

P.S. I just lost my other dog, Poppers, three weeks ago. This is a lot to take all at one time!

And, no, my vet did not do bloodwork on Lady before prescribing, in part because I couldn't afford it--and man, does THAT feel bad!

[smokey/lady/max]

Hi Margi maybe you can just call another vet for advice over the phone and get maybe they can give thier opinion on the drug. I know some wont but there are some that might. I forget there is someone here on this site that works at a vets office I will search to see who it is. Maybe you can get her to ask at her office. I will see if I can find out who it is I will send you PM as soon I I do.

Hang in there
Anna