My dog was diagnosed with "possible" osteosarcome in his left

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My dog was diagnosed with "possible" osteosarcome in his left ulnar in September of 2005, we chose not to amputate. His tumor is not growing, nor is he on pain meds, he is also gaining weight, still active and very happy. He had a test for fungus done because he is a perfomance dog and has been all over the country. He is a labrador retriever and will be 7 on August 6. Should we check for anything else?
The meds that he is on are as follows;
Fosomax
vitamin c
colostrum
glucosimine
flax seed oil

Any help would be greatly appriciated!

Optional Information:
Age: 7; Male; Breed: canine/ labrador retriever

Already Tried:
advice of current vet and oncologist/p>

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $30

Dear friend,

This is most likelt the result of Rabies vaccine. We are seeing more and more Cancers in pets as a result of this innoculation to the point that veterinarians are opting to vaccinate in the tail as it it the easiest thing to amputate if this becomes necessary.

Since you are seeing an oncologist - your boys tumor should be biopsied to detemine if it is Cancer. If it is I would strongly urge you to reconsider the amputation because if this mesastisizes and begings to involve more bones or organs - your boys prognosis will worsen. He could also begin to have a lot of pain related to this. Animals who have had this surgery have done wonderful and readily adjusted to any handicap.Sometimes Interferon or other Chemo is combined for optimum effects. Dogs do not react adversely to chemo the way humans do and actually handle it very well.

PLease read this info regarding osteosarcoma:
http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_canine_osteosarcoma.html

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1638&articleid=465

http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/altmedforpets/index_3.htm

PLease let me know how your boy is doing and if you have any more questions or would like any further info. I will be more than happy to help in any way possible.

Very sincerely,

Terri

Edited by purrfectkitty on July 11 2006 at 6:38 AM

Reply to Terri Riba's Post: It has been biospied. But their answer for osteosarcoma was not 100%. He was never vaccinated for rabies in the leg, but has been between his shoulder blades. Like I said it has been almost a year and there is NO change in the tumor, nor has it spread to his lungs or anywhere else. He is a performance dog with a very high drive, we feel if his front leg is amputated it will effect him mentally. amputaion is not an opption. Since the biopsy said that the results were consistant with osteosarcoma, but they would not say it was, could it be something else?

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on July 11 2006 at 6:56 AM

Dear friend,

The fact that it has not grown spread or worsened may indicate is it not malignant but a more simple bone spur or tumor.Here is more info on osteosarcoma:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osteosarcoma

I understand what you are saying as far as breaking his spirit because he is trained to perform. If that ability is taken from him he may become depressed and suffer mentally.

Take to the oncologist about interferon which can boost the immune system. I would also consider the homeopathic options on the above site.

There are many non malignant bone tumors, cysts, polys, etc that could be causing this. Howebver, you should have a yearly biopsy to make certain the growth is not changing so at least you will know where you stand. You should also consult an orthopedic specilist that is experienced in bone growths in the labrador retriever.

I will also consult with other experts so you will get the best available help.

I will be praying for your boy.

With utmost sincerity,

Terri

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