#MiddleburyCT #Dogs #Cancer #Lymphoma
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My Golden Retriever, Jasmine, was recently diagnosed with lymphoma. I’m devastated. She seemed to tire easily, so I took her to the vet for a checkup, where they said her lymph nodes were enlarged. They did a biopsy to confirm that it was cancer. My question is, what now? The vet said she needs more tests, but I’m not sure what happens after. – Grace T., Hartford, Connecticut
DEAR GRACE: I’m glad you took Jasmine right to the vet, because even though the diagnosis is a serious one, she can start getting treatment that much sooner.
According to the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, lymphoma is sadly common in Golden Retrievers and other dog breeds. However, it can be treated, with chemotherapy as the primary therapy. Surgery might be recommended depending on the type of cancer.
Now that lymphoma has been confirmed through the biopsy, the next step is to determine how far the cancer has spread through Jasmine’s body. Several tests are done: blood tests, urinalysis, a bone marrow test, X-rays and sonograms. Some veterinary offices are equipped for these tests, but you may be referred to specialist care for more advanced testing. These tests are essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan for your dog.
If the vet has not yet followed up with next steps since the diagnosis was made, call and ask for more details and their recommendation. Most vets provide this information along with the diagnosis, so it’s worrisome that you don’t have a path forward. You can always select a different vet if you aren’t confident in the current one.
Has your pet been treated for cancer? Tell me about the experience at ask@pawscorner.com.
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