Lumps on Dog - cancer

pickledonionspaceraider

Hi there,

Our dog went to the vet recently, and was diagnosed with breast cancer purely down to the fact she has lumps.

Is this how vets do this, they do not perform any other tests, they see lump and automatically it is always cancer?

Artytarty

No, it's down to years of experience.
Not all lumps feel the same, rough or smooth, mobile or not etc.
Location , obviously.

krlyr

If you have any doubts, ask them to confirm with biopsy, or seek a second opinion from another vet.

teddysmum

One of my cavaliers had a small lump on his forehead (as had the collie I lost before having him), so I was very upset when a newly qualified vet said he had to have an op asap, as Benji had died of his cancer.


Luckily,as I went through reception, I met the practice owner, who had a feel and said there was nothing to worry about, as Izzy's lump was self contained with no 'roots' going off into his muscles or bones.


She said this was a rough guide, but she was correct. (Benji's lump had been irregular in shape and felt attached to the underlying tissue.)

POPPYOSCAR

What treatment have they recommended?

Katiehound

They are using their expert knowledge to diagnose the problem. Of course if you wish to have a second opinion, a biopsy whatever that is your choice but I suspect the vet is not bombarding you with things that may cost a lot.

Some lumps are utterly harmless- just don't look good. Sadly I have had 2 dogs where the diagnosis of lumps was bad...... prognosis equally bad....and the outcome... just as expected, so I would go along with the vet's advice.

missbiggles1

pickledonionspaceraider wrote: »

Hi there,

Our dog went to the vet recently, and was diagnosed with breast cancer purely down to the fact she has lumps.

Is this how vets do this, they do not perform any other tests, they see lump and automatically it is always cancer?

My dogs just been diagnosed and is going in to have them removed, I was told that a needle biopsy didn't provide good evidence.