Question:OK, here goes. My Golden Retriever of 5 yrs. has a growth on her chest. We tried having it removed, and the surgery seemed successful. The growth recurred about 6 months later. So we had it removed again, with more extensive surgery. It grew back in a few months. Our vet seems quite confused, and always uses the word "growth" rather than tumor. We are going to get a consultant to consider chemotherapy or radiation treatments. So here are my questions. Any help is greatly apreciated. Thank you.
Could it be lipoma? (It is a firm growth, but looks like the pics of it on the internet.)
Could it be cancerous? (The tumor has not spread to any of her systems, and grows in the same place. She has shown no signs of pain or discomfort.)
Should I try to treat it with chemo or radiation?
If we decided to leave it as is, will she be able to have a quality life?
Does it sound like a benign tumor?
Do growths like this continue growing until they burst, or will it stop after a while?
Answers:
I have an 11 year old Golden Retriever in the final stages of cancer. My vet (ex-vet, actually) told me for months that the first tumor we found was a "fatty tumor" (which are common in dogs).
We took our dog to a different vet, who performed x-rays, blood tests, and a biopsy, and confirmed that he actually has cancer. It's untreatable now, all we can do is make him comfortable.
I read somewhere that 85% of Golden Retrievers end up with cancer, I don't know if this is true, but it is very common in the breed. (A result of way too many people breeding dogs for profit, rather than for quality)
I would find a TOP quality vet in your area (probably much more money, but always worth it) for a second opinion, and quickly. Your vet will be able to recommend the best treatment options for you.
My goldens are rescues, both came from irresponsible breeders who couldn't sell the puppies, and dumped them...I'll continue to rescue dogs myself, but anyone who purchases a puppy from a breeder should demand proof of good bloodlines with a long history of healthy dogs.
I feel for both you and your dog, and wish you the best results!
Didn't your vet do a biopsy?? I would think that would be the fist thing to do to find out what kind of growth or tumor it really is.
If it's not cancer than chemo and radiation will not be necessary. If it is cancer than options can be discussed with you and your vet.
Finding out what it is the first step as to treatment options available to you and your Golden.
I can't comment on life quality because I have no way of knowing that. I do know that any of my golden if they were facing a serious illness I'd move heaven and earth to help them live their life as pain free and as long as possible.
I wish you and your Golden all the very best.
didnt i told u to leave it to the veterinary?
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