I’m really hoping to get some advice because I’m feeling pretty overwhelmed right now. My sweet golden retriever, Max, who’s only 7, has been acting off lately—lots of lethargy and a loss of appetite, which is so unlike him. We took him to the vet yesterday after he started refusing his favorite treats, and the vet found something worrying. They said there’s a “mass” in his intestines, and my heart just dropped hearing that. We’re scheduled for more tests later this week, but the waiting is really hard, and I’m trying to stay calm for Max’s sake. Has anyone else’s pup experienced something like this? What should I be prepared for? Any advice or similar experiences would be really appreciated. Thank you so much in advance.
Hello there! It sounds like you're understandably concerned about the mass you’re noticing in your dog's intestines. Let’s go over a few things that might shed some light on this situation.
A mass in the intestines can stem from various issues, such as a blockage from something your dog ate, an abscess, cysts, or in some cases, tumors (benign or malignant). Sometimes, it might just be severe inflammation causing the appearance of a mass.
At home, ensure your dog is eating a bland diet—think boiled chicken and rice—to minimize intestinal stress. Make sure they stay hydrated, offering small amounts of water throughout the day, and keep an eye on their comfort and activity levels.
Watch closely for any signs of a serious problem. These can include vomiting, not eating, lethargy, diarrhea or constipation, and any noticeable behavior changes. If you see any signs of pain, like yelping or reluctance to move, it's important to act quickly.
It’s best to get in touch with a vet for an accurate diagnosis and proper guidance. If you're noticing any of these worrying signs—or simply for peace of mind—consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. It’s a great way to address concerns and get advice tailored to your dog's specific needs.
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.