[Adara]

I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope it turns out to be something different. If not, I'd definitely talk to an oncologist for an opinion on how to proceed (doesn't always mean treatment, etc.).

 

[Adara]

I found this place that's actually in Orange County. Have any of you heard of it?

Advanced Veterinary Specialty Group

I called the cancer group specialist office and the surgery specialist office and explained the situation. They said that it's possible that they could give me a diagnosis but that a biopsy is really what's going to point to what the problem is. I don't know what to do. My boyfriends says that we need to go through with the surgery and not waste time. Which is true, time is not on our side. I do trust our vet and I think we're going to keep the appointment tomorrow and go through with the surgery.

I'm not a vet but I'm wondering if they do NOT think it is osteosarcoma then? The few people I know with dogs that had it were diagnosed via xray. Assuming that is the case, I'd proceed with the biospy myself.

IF the vet feels it really IS osteosarcoma I would nicely ask why he/she isn't able to diagnose via xray in this particualr case since that seems to be the way to diagnose. Maybe this is some kind of unique case???

 

[Adara]

What kind of questions should I make sure to ask?

• What happens if this turns out to be cancer?
• When would you recommend doing chest x-rays?
• What is the prognosis if it is cancerous?
• What is the next step?

These are some of the ones on my list.

Again I would ask what is it about this case that makes it more difficult to diagnose via xray. In a quick google, xray is the most common way to diagnose. I know life isn't always that simple I had a vizsla with a RARE form of lymphoma and it took 5 WEEKS for a diagnosis vs 3-5 days.

Some good sites:
Bone Cancer Dogs
http://www.animalemergencycenter.com/images/vets_OSA.pdf
Bone Cancer Dogs

And if it is cancerous, I would immediately request a referral to an oncologist. That is what they specialize in.

Sending hugs to you. It's a very difficult thing to go through.

 

[Adara]

Glad to hear he is home and in good hands! Fingers crossed for good news with the biopsy results!!