I really need some advice and support right now. My wonderful fur baby, Daisy, who's been with me for 12 incredible years, was just diagnosed with mammary tumors. I'm heartbroken and scared out of my mind. She's such a strong girl, always wagging her tail and cuddling with me no matter what. The vet said we caught it early, but I'm terrified about what to do next. Surgery has been mentioned, and while I want to do everything I can for her, I’m unsure about the risks given her age. Have any of you been through something similar? I'm desperate for any guidance or personal experiences you can share. I just want to make sure I'm making the best decision for Daisy's health and happiness. Thanks in advance, everyone.
Hello there,
I'm sorry to hear about your dog’s situation. Mammary tumors are not uncommon in older dogs and can certainly be concerning. These tumors might be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they're most often found in female dogs, especially those that weren't spayed before their first heat cycle.
In many cases, these tumors are detected as lumps near the mammary glands. While some lumps remain small, others can grow larger or be painful for your dog. It's important to monitor these tumors for any changes in size, color, or feel and to note if your dog is experiencing any pain or difficulty moving.
At home, ensure your pet is comfortable and avoid touching or squeezing the lumps. Providing a warm and soft place for them to rest can help, especially if the lumps are painful. Keep an eye out for troubling symptoms, such as bleeding, an increase in size, or if your dog seems lethargic or unwell.
Given your dog’s age and the presence of these tumors, I strongly recommend setting up a video consultation with a veterinarian. This allows us to discuss your dog’s health in more detail and put together a tailored plan for her care. It's the best step to ensure she remains as healthy and comfortable as possible.
Looking forward to speaking with you soon!
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