My dog was given 1-2 months to live

I got this dog about six weeks ago knowing he had mast cell cancer and likely didn’t have much time left. His previous owner made the decision to rehome him because they wanted him to have a quiet, loving place to spend his final days. That was something I knew I could give him, and I really thought I was prepared for this.

Over the past six weeks, he has been the most perfect addition to our family. He’s been full of joy, playful, and honestly almost puppy like. I kept thinking there is no way this dog is dying. Based on how he was acting I was convinced I might actually have years with him until a few days ago when he started to go downhill.

We saw an oncologist today, and they told us that with his current medications (prednisone, gabapentin, and high-dose antihistamines), he likely has 1–2 months left. If we start chemotherapy, that could potentially become 4–6 months, but chemo comes with its own risks. It could affect his quality of life, and if he doesn’t tolerate it well, it could even shorten the time he has left.

I am a little bit at a loss. I knew this was the case going into it but I’m still not prepared at all.

Do I take these good 1-2 months or do I roll the dice and risk those months for the chance at a little more time?