My 13+ year old husky mix has had a tumor on his back that I first noticed about 4 years ago. Our vet told us to watch it and if it gets too large he recommended removal. Well now four years later it has gotten signifcantly larger. About a year ago I had a vet look at it (different vet since we moved)  and at the time they recommended a biopsy that cost $1300.00. I decided not to have this done. I didn't want to have to put my dog under for the procedure and also if it was found to be cancerous, I probably wouldn't do anything anyway (did the chemo/surgery with last dog and it was just too sad and didn't work either) SInce our appointment last year the tumor seems to be growing rapidly. It is in no way painful just unsightly.  I've been hesitating taking him back to the vets for fear they will try to talk me into removal. I just can't risk the anesthesia at his age. He is also partially blind and deaf but still happy and quite spunky. Am I doing the right thing by doing nothing???

Sorry to hear about your dog.......

My 2 cents....

If the tumor is growing rapidly, how could you possibly "know" that your dog is no way in any pain! A dog can have 10 times the amount of pain a human can, and not show any clinical signs of pain....

If it were my dog, the very least I would do is have the dog checked, have an xray and some bloodwork done, and with the information those tests give the Vet, you will at least know what your up against, and what direction to take. It's tough when our pets get up in age, weighing the benefits of prolonging life or letting nature takes its course. Again, sorry hear to about your dog....it's a tough call.

I guess your right. I am only assuming he doesn't have pain since he is eating well, acting fine and doesn't seem bothered when I press on the area. He really does seem happy but I agree there is no way to actually tell for sure if he is having pain. Thanks for your input.

Both, the base is soft but the top is firm.

Hi.  I am so very sorry to hear your news.

I have four dogs with cancer and I have made different decisions based on their health, age and their personalities.   I have,however, chosen to get a diagnosis so we see what "we"are up against.

However, having said this,whatever decision we make is one made out of love.

I will keep your doggie in my prayers.

Ale

Hi.  I am so very sorry to hear your news.

I have four dogs with cancer and I have made different decisions based on their health, age and their personalities.   I have,however, chosen to get a diagnosis so we see what "we"are up against.

However, having said this,whatever decision we make is one made out of love.

I will keep your doggie in my prayers.

Ale

Thanks!

I would have blood tests done and a good check-up. But at his age going through surgery or even anethesia is taking a chance. That price for a biopsy does sound too high. You might check into homeopathic remedies. Like 4 herb tea. You can find out about the tea through the Herbal Healer Academy Inc. Homeopathic remedies are easier on the body. They work more natural. if you don't believe in natural or homeopathic remedies. Then disregard what I have said. web address is: http://www.herbalhealer.com

I actually have a vet appointment tomorrow...so I'll see what he has to say.  I totally believe in the homeopathic remedies. I'll have to check out that site. Thanks so much!!!

Vet recommended removal although he didn't think it was cancerous but worried about rupture, infection or turning into cancer. We did go ahead with the removal yesterday. He did fine but seems really sore today. Please pray for a quick recovery!!!!!Thank you.

I have a 12 year old German Shepard who will be 13 in August.  She has a golf ball size tumor on her tail.  My vet has removed once already and it was not cancerous but it did come back.  My vet is great, she doesn't want to put Shianne thru the surgery again because obviously we know it will grow back for the second time.  The only other option is to amputate her tail.  I don't want to do that due to her age.  I clean it everyday and put ointment on it, I have to constantly watch her because sometimes she licks it raw.  Since it's not life threatening I am leaving it be.  I hope everything turns out for you and your dog.  Good luck.

Our dog did great with the surgery and was back to his normal self in just about 24 hours. It did turn out to be cancerous but not a very aggressive type so he should be fine.

I hope your dog is okay. Sounds like she should be since it isn't cancer.