Treatment Options for Dog with Multiple Mast Cell Tumors
#2069: Lynn in Winsted, Connecticut wants Dr. Sue’s advice on what to do for her 12 year old shepherd mix, who was diagnosed with multiple mast cell tumors. Lynn loves her dog dearly but doesn’t want him to suffer through surgeries and the side effects of medications, so has decided not to treat the cancer aggressively but to “let him be happy until he seems to be experiencing discomfort.” Lynn doesn’t have pet insurance or unlimited funds, but questions if she has made the right decision. Dr. Sue suggests a consultation with a veterinary internist or oncologist — which is not necessarily that expensive — simply to learn what the options are for treatment and the cost/benefit.
