I don't know what is happening, but I just had to say goodbye to my sweet boy Max due to anal gland adenocarcinoma (AGASACA). My heart's shattered. He was diagnosed four months ago, and we tried everything recommended by our vet, from surgery to chemotherapy. Max was such a trooper through it all, wagging his tail and giving kisses even when he was visibly in discomfort. I'm trying to understand more about how the disease progresses for my own peace. It seemed like he was doing okay, then suddenly took a turn for the worse with weight loss and lethargy. Did I miss signs, or is this normal? Can anyone who has been through this with their dogs share their experiences? I'm feeling lost and guilty, wondering if I could have done something differently.
Thank you for reaching out during such a difficult time. Losing a beloved pet, especially to a challenging condition like apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA), can leave many unanswered questions. I'm here to help.
AGASACA is a malignant cancer that can spread to nearby lymph nodes and sometimes to other organs, like the lungs or liver. Some dogs may not show many symptoms until the disease is advanced. Symptoms often include swelling near the anus, straining to defecate, or increased thirst and urination due to high calcium levels in the blood. It's not uncommon to feel like things progressed rapidly because the cancer can grow subtly at first.
At home, if your dog experiences these symptoms in the future, monitor any changes closely. Watch for difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, significant weight loss, or lethargy, as these could indicate the cancer has spread or progressed.
If you're seeking closure or have more questions about AGASACA, it could be beneficial to discuss your concerns in more detail. Consider booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet, where we can provide personalized guidance and support.
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