Expert: Jannie Balliett - 5/14/2009

Question
Hi, I have a boxer who has allergies and has had a few eye ulcers and ear problems because of the allergies and shaking her head causing vessels to rupture. However now we have what may be cancer in her mouth. Im having a hard time finding information on this as every site sends me to buy books! I want to know if having the lump in her mouth remove since its causing problems eating. She is 8 and has been through a life of health issues and I want to do the right thing for her not me. She is my best friend! They say if I remove the lump and its cancer it will grow back maybe agressively and it could also be in her jaw and they may have to remove part... thats not happening. But the lump is causing eating issues. I want to have it removed and they say that might not work. I dont what to have the lump tested but they say I should if its to come out. But my thing is why have it tested if Im not going to do anything about it. What are my other options? Or are there any? My Boxer before her lived to be 13 years old and relatively great health.
Thanks for any information you can give.
Debbie

Answer
Hi Debbie,

Has a biopsy been taken from the lump in her mouth to determine IF it's cancerous or benign?

Find a vet that will take a sample (biopsy) and see if it is benign. If so, you can safely surgically remove it.

If it is cancer, then it still has to be removed and she will need to undergo chemo-therapy treatments just like people do.

If you aren't sure of what to do-- always before making a decision, seek another opinion and a new vet.

Find one that is Boxer-savvy and knows Boxers and their health issues.

Feed her softened dog food, the natural dog food with NO corn and corn glutens softened with water, and you can add canned dog food to her diet. It's soft and easier for her.

Get another vet and second opinion. Get a biopsy.