A friend of mine just found a lump on his Labs face, between his eye and nose. He took him to the Vet. The Vet. opened the dog to preform a biopsy living a four inch scar. They sent the sample for a biopsy and it came back malignant. They closed the incision and told my friend to find a oncologist. My questions are, should the Vet have sent him to oncologist right away. Now the dog will have to be opened up again. Has anyone had this experience and would you happen to know of a oncologist in New York, Ct., N. J. area. Thank you for any information you can give me.
I am sorry to hear about your friend's dog, and unfortunately know the shock he is feeling. My dog is currently undergoing chemotherapy, under the guidance of a board certified veterinary oncologist. YES! Beyond a shadow of a doubt, your friend should have been sent to a specialist! Please, do not doubt that, and I encourage your friend not to. The dog may/may not need any other surgery. Much will depend on what type of cancer it is and the recommended protocols. These links should help find an oncologist in the areas you listed:
We never dreamed we would be facing this disease with our dog. No doubt it is an emotional roller coaster. However, we are having an incredibly positive experience. The specialist and team working with us are amazing - they are respectful of life, have compassion for us, and know how we love our dog as family. They truly love what they do, and our dog is feeling great. He is happy, playing with his "brother," enjoying his food, walks, swims, and is his sweet, loving self. No matter what, the oncologist is giving us all this gift. That is what a specialist can do for your friend, and most importantly, his dog.
