Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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We are two weeks post-op today and just got the biopsy results back. We were expecting ostesarcoma, but it turns out to be hemangiosarcoma instead. The vet said the prognosis is better than for osteosarcoma, but from what I'm reading online it doesn't sound that much better.
They found a mass on Fred's spleen prior to surgery (they couldn't tell what it was from cytology), but we decided to go ahead with the amputation anyway, since at least he will be in less pain. I also noticed a while back that his toungue seems a little bluish.. the vet said it's fine but I wonder if it's all related.. It sounds like hemangioma tends to originate in the spleen? They can't tell whether the tumor in his bone was primary or not..
He is finally starting to feel better now, but I'm wondering what's in store for us.. We are seeing an oncologist on Monday, but was wondering if those of you with hemangiosarcoma can share your experience..
Thank you!!
Julia
Hi and welcome, your future posts will not have to wait for approval.
I'm sorry about the cancer diagnosis, but this is the best place to be when dealing with cancer and amputation.
I don't have direct experience with hemangiosarcoma but from what I've learned here it can be a tough one. I did a search of the forums for you with hemangiosarcoma in the title and got these results that you can look through while waiting for input from other members.
It's good that you are seeing an oncologist on Monday- you can learn all your options and come up with a plan for Fred. What kind of pup is he? How old?
Sorry- I have to run right now, but stay tuned for input from other members.
Karen and the Spirit Pug Girls
Tri-pug Maggie survived a 4.5 year mast cell cancer battle only to be lost to oral melanoma.
1999 to 2010
Hi Julia and Fred!
Although my Happy Hannah had osteosarcoma, I can't offer specific treatment options for your Fred, I can tell you this: Fred does not have a timeframe stamped anywhere on his butt!! Statistics donu mean swuat to Fred! Days on athe calendar don't mean squat to Fred!
What Fred does care about is loving, spoiling, tummy rubs, extra treats and sleeping on the couch!
Stay connected! This is a great place ro be for infor.ation and support and u derstanding.
Lots of hugs!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
I am so sorry you are here... we had hemangiosarcoma and I don't want to be a downer but I actually heard it was worse than osteosarcoma. Ours also manifested in the spleen and we removed that. And then the leg a few months later. We had started chemo right away but we were told 1 -2 months and we got 8. So I consider that a win!
I know that Shelby took her chemo like a champ .. no real side effects and we had a great quality of life for those months. Sure she was tired (she was 12 and then 13) and slowed down but she loved her life. She loved everything we did together and she loved being by my side.
I know there are others that have gotten more months with this same disease so there will be others that chime in. Feel free to ask me anything! I hate this cancer and by no means am an expert OR vet but I have experience and I am here to help!
Hugs!
Alison with Spirit Shelby in her heart
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Fred is a 12 3/4 year old, 45 pound mutt. He has been healthy most of his life, has been on raw meat for years, minimal vaccinations, no heartworm or flea chemicals, lots of hiking, swimming and love.. He has slowed down dramatically in the last couple of months.. I'm sure his leg was a big factor, but prior to that he did miles every day and went swimming several times a day. We are going swimming today for the first time since the surgery and we're very excited about that, since it's back to upper 80s here.
I haven't really been posting on this forum, but I've been reading a lot of posts and just wanted to say thank you for all the support, which is so very much needed at a time like this.
Alison,
From what I am reading it doesn't sound any better than ostesarcoma.. so was kind of expecting that..
I know I should wait for what the oncologist says, but I'm afraid they may suggest splenectomy considering this diagnosis and a mass on his spleen.. What was your experience with that surgery?
julka7 said
Alison,From what I am reading it doesn't sound any better than ostesarcoma.. so was kind of expecting that..
I know I should wait for what the oncologist says, but I'm afraid they may suggest splenectomy considering this diagnosis and a mass on his spleen.. What was your experience with that surgery?
We found a mass on the spleen when Shelby first broke her leg but didn't do anything until a few months later when her spleen became inflamed and was causing her discomfort. We removed the spleen and found the cancer. From what I have heard, spleens with this cancer can rupture and that is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening. I will say, our recovery from the spleenectomy was a breeze as far as major surgeries go. Shelby did bounce back right away after that and we really resumed our normal life.
Obviously keeping Fred calm and limited walks, etc is key to recovery on both fronts.
It sounds like Fred is already quite fit and healthy which will serve him well as a tripawd! Swimming is low impact so that would be great as well I am sure (Shelby didn't like the water) but others will chime in on swimming options! 🙂
And it sounds like he's on a good diet for fighting cancer ... Fingers crossed and for you!!!! Keep us posted!
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
mom2shelby said
We found a mass on the spleen when Shelby first broke her leg but didn't do anything until a few months later when her spleen became inflamed and was causing her discomfort. We removed the spleen and found the cancer. From what I have heard, spleens with this cancer can rupture and that is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening. I will say, our recovery from the spleenectomy was a breeze as far as major surgeries go. Shelby did bounce back right away after that and we really resumed our normal life.
Thank you, Alison, that is good to know. How long did it take her to recover? Did she seem more comfortable after the surgery? Do they not have to go through the abdominal muscles? I'm assuming Shelby had her leg amputated after she broke it? How long after did she have the spleen surgery?
Did they not know at the time of amputation that it was hemangiosarcoma?
Did it eventually go into the liver? Sorry.. lots of questions.. Just trying gather as much info as possible.. Thanks again!!
I think that if there was a mass in the spleen and the leg then I would keep a close eye on the liver and heart. Your dog should probably have an ultrasound in a few months and doxorubricin chemotherapy. You could also look at daily metronomic chemotherapy .
Pam
Shelby's journey to diagnosis was quite different. She broke her leg in a freak accident and we found no cancer. Just what they thought was bone cancer but then couldn't really confirm that so we chose to fix and plate her leg. Four months later, she had to have her spleen out and we found the cancer. Three months later, the leg HAD to come off and after sending it for numerous tests, we found that it was indeed hemangiosarcoma also!!!
We never got cancer in our liver or heart. She suffered from a few heart mumors but that was about it. What did happen was the cancer spread to her lungs (mets) which were still tiny but in the end, she suffered seizures and the cancer was in her brain. That was what ultimately ended our journey.
Like I said, Shelby was a TRUE fighter and never let her diagnosis or disease define her. HUGS!
Oh and she was definitely more comfortable after that spleen came out. Basically it become inflamed and was out the next day. She was instantly happy. I thought it was bloat! She bounced back from all her recoveries well. I don't recall how they got it out of her (the spleen) but she was definitely shaved in lots of places! LOL
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
So it sounds like it was likely in her leg but couldn't be detected originally? It appears your case is similar to ours.
Talked to the oncologist -- she said that it's impossible to tell whether the mass in the spleen is the same cancer without removing the spleen. That it is more likely than not that it did start in the spleen and spread into the leg.
I know statistics are just numbers, but I feel that putting him through another surgery now as he is just starting to feel better after the amputation, it just doesn't feel right. The spleen doesn't seem to bother him at the moment.. at least that's what the vet said. He does seem restless at night sometimes and I no longer know if it's his missing leg or something else going on..
I don't feel like anything aggressive at this point is the right thing.. I know we may gain more time with it, but at the same time we are guaranteed to lose quality time if we go that route and we may not have much of it left..
Got the metromonic chemo, and as the vet recommended Yunnan Bayio and I'm Yunity -- alternative treatments that have some evidence behind them. Was a little surprised that a Cornell oncologist recommended them, but since there are little or no side-effects, why not. Also made a batch of canna-butter last night, yet to try, if anyone here has any personal experience, please share.
This is the start of week three and he is getting much better at getting around -- going from slow limpy walk to very speedy trot for as long as he can sustain in, which is not very long yet, but definitely progress.
Running into an issue where he wants to keep going in one direction, trying to get to places he used to go not long ago, which are miles away.. then he gets tired couple of minutes later, and I have to somehow figure out how to get us back, which usually involves me carrying him.
As you know there are no right or wrong decisions here, every story and dog and cat is different. You've put a lot of love into the care for him, that's all that matters.
Your vet sounds great. Here's a post about I'mYunity, which has had many quality studies behind it.
Mushroom Therapy for Canine Hemangiosarcoma
As for helping him get back on your walks, have you considered a dog stroller ? There are soooo helpful.
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Hi Julia,
My dog, Murphy, had osteosarcoma and then was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma 11 months later. Murphy's spleen tumor ruptured, and that was a big game changer in terms of medical care, treatment, and time. Since it ruptured, it meant Murphy was bleeding internally and it wouldn't stop without surgery. My vet also indicated that hemangiosarcoma is blood based, so it can spread anywhere blood travels, though it most likely spreads to the liver and lungs but it can also go to the heart. Now, they were able to do a CT scan and were able to tell it was hemangiosarcoma.
I was also concerned about how much stress and trauma a second surgery would cause Murphy and was also nervous about if that stress on his immune system would be extra damaging because he also had osteosarcoma. I made the tough decision to say goodbye to Murphy to spare him any further pain and stress.
Like the always wise Jerry said, there are no right and wrong decisions. I just wanted to share my experience with it. I wish the best for you and Fred!
Murphy, became a tripawd on August 17, 2015. Went to the rainbow bridge on July 5, 2016.
Me again... I can say the same for Shelby ... I was so worried about that spleen we took it out. We were in reverse though ... spleen out to find the cancer and then the leg eventually off. I know it's hard to put them through so much. It really is a personal decision and I, like Murphy said, have heard the stories about the spleen rupturing and bleeding out. I don't say this to scare you as I suspect you already know these stories.
AS far as the mushrooms ... we did those too. I don't know if they helped or not but it was peace of mind and my oncologist supported our decision.
As far as the walks .. is it possible he wants to be outside? Perhaps sitting and enjoying the fresh air will also be good?
I would also add, as I have said before.... surrounding Fred with love, positive energy and lots and lots of cuddles will be one of the best medicines possible!!! HUGS! 
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
You've gotten good insight from two members who have dealt with this.
You are very tuned into Fred and seem to be pretty intuitive about what path you want to take for now.
If I'm reading this right, Fred is pretty "stable" right now as far as the spleen goes and not at risk for rupture at the moment...right?
Your "gut" seems to be telling you now is NOT the right time for another surgery. Fred is just now past the two week mark and is just now starting to get his sparkle back. This journey is about quality and not days on a calendar. It's about the here and now.
Oh, is Fred still on any painn meds? If not, he may need a little dose of Tramadol tonhelp keep him comfy at night. Also, hus muscles may be a little tight and sore by the end of the day, so a gentle bedtime massage may be helpful.
Yes, do check out the strollers! So many dog overdo their walks, especially at first, and need to hitch a ride in a stroller on the way back! If Fred likes carrides, maybe you could drive him to the places he used ro go, let him walk around and check things out, then drive him back, making stops so he can check things out.
You are being proactive with yiur ssupplements, the mushrooms, etc. Canna butter...same as Cannibis oil? More and .more seem to be trying that .
Stay connected and update when you can....with pictures too! Take lots and lots of pictures a dd make everyday FRED DAY!! Have a blast and spoil, spoil, spoil!!
Lots of love!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
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