Part of iCantCU Episode 296: https://icantcu.com/296.
Sometimes life throws a curveball that forces you to rethink everything. In this episode of iCantCU, I talk about why a trip I’d been looking forward to for months suddenly didn’t matter anymore after we received difficult news about our dog Ziggy.
This video was part of iCantCU episode 296. Listen to the entire podcast episode here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rokid-style-delays-and-choosing-ziggy-over-vegas/id1445801370?i=1000752248497
Key Podcast Moments
- I share how excited I was to attend a YouTube workshop in Las Vegas before everything changed.
- We received the difficult news that Ziggy had been diagnosed with lymphoma.
- Our focus quickly shifted from travel plans to Ziggy’s treatments and comfort.
- I explain how chemotherapy treatments for dogs can extend quality of life.
- We experienced the emotional ups and downs of watching Ziggy respond to treatment.
- I ultimately decided not to go to Vegas so I could stay home and help care for him.
- The experience reminded me how quickly priorities can shift when a beloved pet is sick.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
A Trip I Had Been Planning for Months
For months, I had been looking forward to attending a YouTube creator workshop in Las Vegas. The flights were booked, the hotel was reserved, and I had a list of questions ready for other creators. I had attended a similar event in the past and learned a lot, so this felt like a great opportunity to keep improving the iCantCU channel.
But just as everything was coming together, life had other plans.
Ziggy’s Lymphoma Diagnosis
While I was away at PodFest in Florida, my wife Liz had to take our golden retriever Ziggy to the vet. The news we eventually received was devastating: Ziggy had lymphoma.
Lymphoma is one of the more common cancers in dogs, and hearing the diagnosis immediately changed our priorities. Without treatment, dogs with lymphoma may only have a few weeks. With treatment, some dogs can gain additional time with a good quality of life. Our goal became simple—do whatever we could to keep Ziggy comfortable and happy.
The Ups and Downs of Treatment
Ziggy began chemotherapy treatments, which meant regular vet visits and careful monitoring. Some days he seemed almost like his old self—running around, stealing food, and generally being the “golden menace” we know and love. Other days were harder, especially when side effects from the treatments made him tired or sick.
Watching those ups and downs is emotionally exhausting. Anyone who has cared for a sick pet knows the feeling of celebrating small wins while worrying about what might come next.
Why I Chose Ziggy Over Vegas
In the end, the decision not to travel was obvious. Even though I had been excited about the workshop, leaving home didn’t feel right while Ziggy was going through treatment.
Between vet visits, late-night trips outside, and making sure he was eating and comfortable, being present mattered more than any conference or networking opportunity. Right now, our focus is simply making sure Ziggy has as many good days as possible.
Top Takeaways
Priorities Can Change in an Instant
It’s amazing how quickly plans that seemed important can fade into the background when something serious happens. One moment I was planning a trip to Las Vegas, and the next we were focused on vet visits and treatment schedules. Life has a way of reshuffling what matters most. When those moments happen, sometimes the best decision is simply to be present for the people—and pets—you love.
Caring for a Sick Pet Is an Emotional Rollercoaster
Some days Ziggy seems like his old self again, running around the house and looking for snacks. Other days remind us that he’s fighting something serious. That emotional swing between hope and worry can be exhausting. But every good day feels like a small victory.
Quality Time Becomes the Priority
When a pet is sick, everyday moments suddenly feel more meaningful. Car rides, treats, and even sharing a piece of bread become ways of making memories. It’s not about big events or travel plans anymore—it’s about enjoying the simple things together while you can.
Support Systems Matter
Caring for Ziggy has been a team effort between Liz, Jane, and me. Between work schedules, vet visits, and treatments, it takes coordination and patience. Having people around who care just as much about your pet makes a difficult situation a little easier to manage.
How Long Do Dogs Live With Lymphoma?
One of the first questions people ask after hearing the word lymphoma is how much time their dog might have. Without treatment, many dogs diagnosed with lymphoma may only live four to six weeks. With treatment such as chemotherapy, some dogs can experience remission and enjoy several months or even longer with a good quality of life. Every case is different, but for us the goal is simple: give Ziggy as many comfortable, happy days as possible.
Additional Resources
Understanding Lymphoma in Dogs
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Information about common cancers in pets
- American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation – Research and education about canine cancer
- Veterinary Cancer Society – Resources for pet owners navigating cancer diagnoses
Books About Caring for Pets With Cancer
- The Dog Cancer Survival Guide by Demian Dressler and Susan Ettinger
- Outsmart Your Pet’s Cancer: Stories of Recovery Among Dogs and Cats Given Essiac by Tanya Harter Pierce
These resources can help pet owners better understand treatment options, quality-of-life considerations, and ways to support animals living with cancer. Links to books are affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
If you’d like to hear the full story and follow Ziggy’s journey, listen to the complete episode of iCantCU Episode 296 here:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rokid-style-delays-and-choosing-ziggy-over-vegas/id1445801370?i=1000752248497
And if you’ve ever gone through something similar with a pet, feel free to share your experience. Stories from other pet owners can be incredibly helpful and encouraging during times like these.
If you’re new here, you can explore more episodes of the iCantCU podcast where I talk about technology, blindness, and the everyday experiences that shape life.