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Question:

12 Year Old Family Dog Diagnosed w/ Hemangiosarcoma (HSA)

I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed right now and could really use some advice or at least a place to vent. Our sweet family dog, Max, was just diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma, and my heart is breaking. He's been with us for 12 years—basically my kids grew up with him—and I can't imagine our lives without his wagging tail greeting us at the door. The vet explained that it's a kind of cancer that affects blood vessels, and the prognosis isn't great. He's had a couple of fainting spells lately, which prompted us to take him in, and now this news has just crushed us. We're lost on what steps to take next. Do we focus on making him comfortable, or do we look into surgeries and treatments, even though the vet hinted they might extend his time only by a little? What can we do to make these remaining days, however many there are, as full and happy for him as possible? Thanks for any guidance or similar experiences you can share; I'm feeling so torn and helpless right now.

Answer:

I'm so sorry to hear about your dog's diagnosis with hemangiosarcoma. It's understandably a challenging time, and I'm here to support you through this. Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer that starts in the blood vessels, commonly affecting areas like the spleen, liver, or heart. It tends to be aggressive and can spread quickly, which can be difficult for families to manage.



While treatment options vary based on your dog's condition, it's important to create a comfortable environment at home. Ensure your pup has a soft, quiet place to rest and try to keep their routine as consistent as possible. Gentle walks and favorite activities can help keep their spirits up, too.



Watch for signs that might require immediate veterinary attention, such as sudden weakness or collapse, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the abdomen. These can indicate internal bleeding, a common concern with HSA.



Nutritional support and maintaining hydration are also important. Offer high-quality, easily digestible food and fresh water frequently. However, make sure to avoid any abrupt changes to their diet without consulting with a vet.



It’s crucial to stay in close contact with a veterinarian during this time. I recommend booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet specialists. They can provide personalized guidance and help you navigate the next steps in your pup’s care.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 20, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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