Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Dog has tumor on kidney. Was unable to perform surgery due to heart disease. What can I do?

I'm really in need of some advice and maybe a little comfort. My sweet boy, Max, who’s a 10-year-old Golden Retriever, has been going through a tough time. We recently found out he has a tumor on his kidney. The vet initially recommended surgery, but after some tests, they discovered he has a heart disease making surgery too risky. I’m heartbroken and honestly don’t know what to do next. Max still seems pretty happy and energetic, but I’m terrified of making the wrong decision regarding his care. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Are there alternative treatments or ways to keep him comfortable and happy for as long as he’s here with us? Any advice or experiences would really mean a lot right now. Thanks in advance.

Answer:

I'm so sorry to hear about what you and your dog are going through. Dealing with a kidney tumor can be quite challenging, especially with the added complication of heart disease. Since surgery isn't an option, managing your dog's quality of life becomes the priority.



First, it's crucial to keep an eye on your dog's overall condition. Look out for signs of discomfort like increased lethargy, changes in appetite, vomiting, or any difficulty in urinating. These can signal changes in your dog's health that may need immediate attention.



At home, ensure your dog has a comfortable and stress-free environment. Encourage regular, gentle exercise if your vet agrees it’s safe, as this can help maintain muscle and joint health. Keep a close eye on your dog’s hydration and feed them a balanced diet, possibly with adjustments made for kidney and heart health. Your vet might recommend a specific diet to ease the burden on the kidneys and heart.



Regular check-ups will be essential. Watch for any signs of pain or distress, and if you observe anything out of the ordinary, it’s important to reach out to a vet promptly.



Please consider booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet. We can discuss your dog's symptoms in more detail and help create a tailored care plan for your furry friend.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
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.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Should I make my cat NPO before vet appt for possible abdominal imaging?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Seasonal Skin Allergies in dog?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Embarrassed to take my cat to the vet (follow up)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I need opinions on my kitten with mycoplasma and elevated tumor markers please
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links