Accepted Answer

Hello--I am so sorry to hear that your Dear Friend has passed!

We are only just beginning to understand how foods and chemical additives interact with the cells of the body to produce optimal health or illness. As pet owners we do the best we can by researching and relying on advice of professionals that we trust...adjusting how we care for our pets as new information comes to light.

Dogs not uncommonly develop splenic tumors that originate in the large blood vessels that circulate blood through this organ. It is likely that tumor development this specific in an entire species is genetic in origin...it may take minimal impact from the environment to start the cancerous process (although dogs seem to be very sensitive to the side effects of concentrated second-hand cigarette smoke in the home).
About the Spleen.

A very large tumor may cause the spleen to turn over on itself--this is quite painful and may account for the acute symptoms that sent you to your regular vet's office. A developing tumor in the spleen is not necessarily anything that a pet will take notice of...symptoms are often delayed until more advanced stages. Many people experience the shock that you have had.

Although a spleen with a single large or a few small tumors may be surgically removed, once cancer "seed" cells have reached the lungs it is not realistic to think that surgery and chemotherapy will be completely effective. These steps are rigorous and difficult to endure, so the decision to euthanize is considered Kinder than submitting a pet to the Unknown Future of advanced treatments.

It is difficult enough to plan ahead for a pet's loss (like with Chronic Kidney Disease), but when separation is abrupt, the Mind has a hard time keeping up with Real Time. Conflicting thoughts, regrets and feelings arise throughout the day. When you catch yourself in this kind of cycle, take a very deep breath, hold a picture of him in your mind and let the moment pass in its natural way. Pushing uncomfortable thoughts aside usually makes the grieving process more painful, so be accepting of yourself and give yourself the comfort he would want you to have.

Although it can be Unthinkable to rush out and get a new pet right away, many folks like to volunteer for a rescue society or shelter. If a New Friend is out there, you can find each other naturally while helping homeless pets find some security and gentleness.

If you need additional support at this time, please click "Reply".


Edited by Gen B. on 9/11/2009 at 4:04 PM

Expert:	Gen B.
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Answered:	9/11/2009

Retired Veterinary Technician

Lhasa,Shih Tzu Breeder/ B.A.Neurophysiology & Animal Behavior/I use plain English!