How To The dog should be treated with osteosarcoma.
There is a serious bone cancer in dogs.It can only be treated if it prolongs life.A combination of amputation and chemotherapy is the main form of treatment for this cancer.
Step 1: Go to the vet with your dog.
It's important to take your dog to the vet if you suspect something is wrong.If you notice that your dog is limping or has swelling in one of its legs, that's a sign of this type of cancer.You may see signs of pain, such as an inability to walk very far.
Step 2: Expect a rectal exam.
A rectal exam is likely to be performed on your dog.The purpose of this exam is to make sure the cancer is not spreading to other parts of the body.The vet will be looking for another tumor.
Step 3: Ask about x-rays.
Your vet will need to take x-rays of your dog before treatment can begin.X-rays will give your vet an idea of how big the tumor is, as well as how far the cancer has spread.The vet can come up with the best treatment for your dog.Your vet will look at your dog's back and legs and chest to see if there is any spread of the cancer.If your vet finds something, they may order a CAT Scan.If there's a chance that the cancer has spread to the liver, they'll want to do an x-ray.
Step 4: There will be a biopsy.
A needle is used to remove part of the tumor.They are taking a tissue sample so they can take a better look at it.If your dog has cancer, the vet can send it for testing.
Step 5: You should be prepared for other tests.
Other tests may be ordered by your vet.They can take a blood sample before doing an x-ray.There are blood tests that show if a dog has cancer.They can help the vet understand how the suspected cancer is affecting other organs.
Step 6: If surgery is an option for your dog, ask your vet.
osteosarcoma can be treated with surgery.It's a good option because it provides pain relief, and at the same time, letting your dog still have good quality of life.A limb-sparing surgery is the first choice.That isn't often an option.There are risks of infections and the tumor coming back if it is not small.Prosthetic surgeries are more likely to have problems than limb-sparing surgeries.
Step 7: It is possible to understand amputation is the best approach.
If you want to give your dog a good life, amputation of the limb may be the best option.Most dogs do well with only three legs, and the surgery removes some of the cancer, as well as reducing pain.
Step 8: Try it.
If you decide to do that, your dog will need to have chemotherapy to keep the cancer from spreading.Carboplatin and cisplatin are used for this cancer.Doxorubicin is also an option.cisplatin is cheaper than the other option.The dog is generally safer with carboplatin.If the cancer is not treated, it will spread to the lungs.No benefits will be provided by Chemotherapy alone.Alternative therapies are not likely to help.
Step 9: It's a good idea to reduce the amount of pain.
If you can't afford surgery or it's not a good option for you dog, you should try to reduce the pain.Radiation therapy is an option.The cancer won't be treated.It will make your dog more comfortable.Dogs can develop fractured bones from the cancer with this treatment.
Step 10: Think about the benefits of physical therapy.
Your dog's quality of life can be improved by physical therapy.You would use physical therapy.The option of massage therapy is also available.
Step 11: Do you want to weigh your options?
Half of the dogs who develop this disease only survive a year after treatment.Older dogs are more likely to live longer than younger dogs.
Step 12: Consider ending one's life.
Euthanasia is a final option if your dog gets sicker.You don't want to say goodbye to your pet.Even with treatment, you will likely need to put your dog down because of this disease.Over time, it tends to spread.You don't need to kill your dog as soon as it's diagnosed.You just need to be watching for signs that it's getting worse, such as being lethargic, not wanting to eat, or whining because of pain.