Help, I'm at a loss here. I just got back from the vet with Max, my 14-year-old golden retriever, and I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed. The vet found nodules on his spleen during an ultrasound and I don't know what the best course of action is. Max has been my buddy through thick and thin, and seeing him like this is just breaking my heart. He seems okay, still eating and wagging his tail, but I'm terrified about what this could mean. The vet mentioned a few options, including a biopsy or just monitoring it, but I'm really unsure about which path to take. Have any of you been through something similar with your fur babies? I'd really appreciate any advice or stories about how things turned out for you and your pets. I just want to make the right choice for my old guy.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. At 14, your dog is a beloved senior and it's understandable to be worried about nodules on their spleen. These nodules can have several potential causes—some benign and others more serious. Common causes include benign nodular hyperplasia, hemangiomas, or hemangiosarcomas, which are malignant tumors.
To understand the nature of these nodules, your vet might suggest further diagnostics like an ultrasound, blood tests, or even a biopsy. These tests will provide a clearer picture and help determine the best course of action.
In the meantime, focus on keeping your dog comfortable. Ensure they're eating a balanced diet and have easy access to water and comfortable places to rest. Keeping them calm and stress-free will also be beneficial.
Watch for any signs of a serious issue, such as lethargy, sudden weakness, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or a distended abdomen. These could indicate complications like internal bleeding, which would require immediate veterinary attention.
It’s great that you’re proactive about your dog's health. I would recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet to discuss your dog’s specific condition in more detail and plan appropriate next steps.
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