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Anal Sac Tumor with Lymph Node Enlargement

My Laydebug

Two weeks ago, Laydebug, my rescue foxhound of 10 years, started drinking excessively. No other symptoms present. I had ordered her senior blood panel in June but decided to repeat it with this onset of drinking so much. It showed her calcium levels were high (14).

My vet told me she could drop dead of a heart attack at any minute and told me to get a test for pituitary gland problems.

A personal friend, also a vet, asked me if anyone checked her anal sacs as he said 20 to 30% of high calcium is due to a tumor in the anal sac that can be as small as a grain of rice.

I took her immediately to a specialist 3 hours away and had a full diagnostic evaluation done. Indeed, it is a tumor in the anal sac and the ultrasound showed enlarged lymph nodes in the sublumbar.

No treatment options have been provided yet as the results will take a day from the aspirate of the tumor site. The "specialist" told me she would get recommendatons from an oncologist and I'd likely be facing radiation and chemotherapy. And if I couldn't afford those options, there likely was medicine to pull the calcium levels down.

I have googled a lot and it appears this is not a good prognosis at all. Many sites say the tumor should be removed because that type of tumor/cancer is quite aggressive. I also was told that often owners have to put their dogs down because the tumor grows to a size that the dog cannot defecate.

ANY advice is appreciated. Ladyebug's a true gem. My lesson learned, sadly too late, is everyone should demand that their vet examines their anal sacs upon each and every visit, especially in older dogs. Should this have been done, in hindsight, the tumor could have been removed, possibly with a full recovery. My former vet always did it; my current vet doesn't do it unless asked. I didn't know anal sacs could get tumors. A hard lesson to learn so I want to share this information with others.

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Feb 10, 2019
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Anal gland cancer
by: Anonymous

Our westie was 9yrs old at diagnosis of anal gland tumour adenocarcinoma. She also has Addisons since 3 yrs old and gets a Monthly needle and daily prednisone. We didn't treat the tumour as vet said would be 6-8 weeks as its aggressive. I did however treat her with cannabis oil. It's 2.5 yrs later she is still OK. The tumour is size of a baseball but she gets a weekly saline solution to clear calcium AND is still on prednisone for her Addisons. She is happy and you would never know she has cancer accept the large tumour. We are so happy she is still with us and will be 12 this August. I feel certain the oil has made a huge difference as before I gave her she was already going down hill and slept most of day.

Jun 13, 2018
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Buckley’s Story
by: Jess

2 years ago my 10 year old Staffie was diagnosed with Anal tumour during routine exam.

Vet advised removal often caused distress & problems so I opted to not operate.

He is still here. Spoilt rotten & walking the beach with his ball twice a day. I give him him Golden Paste which I make myself.

Turmeric powder, water, cracked black pepper & coconut oil. Google it!

The tumor is the size of a baseball to the right of his tail but he is still eating, drinking & pooing (ribbons). Paraffin oil sprinkled helps every couple of days.

I have booked home vet to come but cancelled 3 times because he is still bright & happy & not quite ready. I just wished I had got into natural medicine 2 years ago. He is my soul mate & I thank him every day for his unconditional love💖

Jan 24, 2018
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Rectal cancer in my boxer
by: Peggy

My 9 yr old boxer had rectal cancer 1 1/2 yrs ago removing as much of the cancer as could be.

It returned 3 months ago, worse than previously and too close to his spine for surgery.

My vet is amazing, performing laser surgery along with conventional so I am confident he would operate had that been an option!

He advised Metamucil, pumpkin, kidney beans added to his grain free preferably canned food. He also decided to put him on "life gold" sold online because he has seen fabulous results in extending life in situations where there is no surgical options.

I do see a difference in Bowie's strength and ability to defecate!! I’m also taking advice from other contributors and adding aloe vera !

Thanks to all for sharing their suggestions!

Jan 05, 2018
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15 year old Aussi Shepherd
by: Donna

She should be on pain killers prescribed by the vet. Have your vet script them for you so you can get them from your pharmacy. It's less expensive this way (usually put them on gabapentin, tramadol and meloxicam).

Some dogs will never stop eating but moving becomes painful for them as the cancer spreads to lymph nodes and lungs.

She will also have trouble defecating so the stool becomes ribbon-like.

You have to make the right decision for her. It's not about you, sadly. It's about her. It's unfortunate you cannot afford a vet. If you can at least get her in for an appointment, they can advise you.

Otherwise, you will have to decide if she is in too much pain. If she does less and less each day, doesn't go as far on walks and seems in pain, you will have to decide what is best for her.

Jan 05, 2018
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Anal Sac cancer- can’t afford treatment
by: Anonymous-K

My Australian Shepherd chow mix is around 15 years old.

I am young and in school and care for her myself with no help from parents or anyone. I first saw a lump on her rear end under her tail around a year and a half ago. Her mannerisms or appetite never changed and she was still energetic and lively, and I knew I couldn’t afford any vet bills so I didn’t take her.

Today, the lump has grown very large, the size of a small pineapple. These last few months I’ve seen the increased thirst and increased urinating.

Other than that she is still the same dog. She seems weaker in her legs and it’s harder for her to come upstairs but she still does and wants to.

After googling everything I discovered the anal sac cancer and it fits the situation through and through. I don’t know if I should put her down, the growth is so big but I don’t know if it’s hurting her, or just bothering her. Sometimes it bleeds slightly.

I love my dog so much and wish I could do more for her but it’s impossible. I have no idea her remaining life expectancy or anything. Do I end it for her?

Dec 10, 2017
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Anal sac cancer
by: Rohan

My 9 year old husky had an anal sac tumour removed in May 2017. The useless vet didn’t recommend any further tests or treatment - I only wish what I know now back then.

In September we found out accidentally that her sub lumbar lymph nodes were inflamed. Too inflamed for surgery. We decided to go holistic and the have been fantastic.

Raspberry seed powder as well. We were told that she would be lucky to see Christmas but she is doing well. There have been a few tough weeks with very high calcium but over that now. She too was put on prednisone as well as a couple of IV flushes to flush the calcium out. We had a scan recently and since the last scan back in September one of the lymph nodes has decreased in size. We would love to get 4 years from her like anonymous has achieved.

Nov 18, 2017
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Anal carcinoma
by: Anonymous

My 11 year old schnoodle started becoming lethargic, drinking a lot of water & just not being himself about 4 years ago, when the vet ran tests, he found a large tumor near his anal area and referred me to the university to get more information.

I took him in and they told me surgery was required and that because of his age, that there still was no guarantee and that he only had 6 months to live. We decided to NOT put him through the stress of surgery and to start trying holistic, homeopathic remedies for him.

The vet did put him on prednisone, he has been on this for about 4 years now, but other than that, I have been making his food homemade for about 4 years now. I add plenty of beneficial proteins like pumpkin, kidney beans, turmeric, ground chicken, carrots, celery... I make him a stew now. I used to add rice, but because of the tumor, the grains block him up and make it harder for him to go potty, so now just mainly meats, veggies & broth. The turmeric is a known cancer fighter & has worked wonders. I also add a tablespoon of organic apple cider to his water daily.

4 years later, he is still fighting this awful cancer. So, if you can try to avoid the painful, risky surgery for your pup, I would say try alternative healthy options for your fur baby!

Jul 21, 2017
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Lymphadenactomy
by: Anonymous

This is my 2nd update on my 13 yr. old poodle (Meagan) who is recovering from her lymphadenactomy.

Her cancer had metastasized to her left iliac lymph node which they decided to remove. At the same time exploratory surgery was performed to biopsy her liver based on some spotting they couldn't be sure was age related only.

I received the results today which I expected was confirmed cancer in the lymph node but was happy to learn was only old age in the liver. Still no drug therapy required. Retest in two months. So please never give up on your precious babies for they are very tough little creatures.They will try for you as hard as you do for them. She has amazed me.

Jul 12, 2017
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Anal Sac Tumor Followup
by: Anonymous

This is a follow up to my original post on April 23rd 2017.

My 13 yr. old poodle had surgery to remove a tumor in her anal sac that was cancerous. Her follow up exam showed a 1x3 cm enlarged left lymph node with great blood work, lungs, heart, and liver results.

Surgery has been suggested with no needed drug following. Oncology says her case has not been typical to most so will continue to update hopefully to help others learn from this. I know how stressful this is when searching for answers.

Jul 12, 2017
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In for surgery today
by: Anonymous

A small lump was found in my dog's anal sac a few weeks ago, didn't know if it was a tumor or not but as she is a Cocker Spaniel and they have a higher risk we decided to have it removed anyway (sac and lump removed with good margins so the surgeon said ).

As we wanted to act quickly, the lump was sent away for a biopsy and it was found to be a tumor so we were referred to a specialist hospital where she had a CT scan and showed she had two lymph nodes enlarged so I have dropped her off there today to have them removed and she will then be having a course of chemotherapy, 1 injection every 3 weeks (4 in total).

I have read other people's comments on here and it is a mixture of success.

Has anyone else's dog had this chemotherapy as I'm told that it makes your dog a bit sick the next day, but that is all and to keep an eye on her in the second week after having an injection as her white blood cells will be down and you have to be careful if your dog gets a cut etc as they are more prone to infection.

She is only six by the way.

May 24, 2017
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1 year post anal sac cancer surgery
by: Joanne

We have had the best year with our Bella. One year ago she could barely walk and trembled at night when we sought treatment at Colorado State University. Our beautiful 10 year old chocolate lab sailed through her surgery and four one hour chemo treatments. She had a clean ultrasound yesterday. I was hesitant a year ago to put her through this but she is not only doing great but we have had so much fun this year. If we lost her tomorrow we would accept it. I am so grateful for this sweet dog.

May 07, 2017
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Max
by: Donna

Max is a 9-year old Pointer mix with three legs. He was probably hit by a car in early days. I adopted him from a rescue when he was 3-years old.

These are the findings of Max’s CT report:

Max has metastasis of his anal sac tumor to one of his sublumbar lymph nodes and there is also two suspicious lesions in his lungs. On the CT scan, his anal sac tumor measures 3.6cm x 3.9cm and his metastatic sublumbar lymph node measures 6.8cm x 6.8cm. There is a bony reaction along the lower lumbar spine and this is likely associated with the metastatic lymph node. This may indicate that the metastatic lymph node is closely adhered to the lumbar spinal bones and this may make excision of the sublumbar lymph node challenging.

The other obvious concern is the potential for metastatic disease to his lungs. Max has a number of pulmonary osteomas, which are benign, old-age changes in the lungs. However, two of his lung lesions do not look like osteomas and hence they could be metastatic lesions, but we do not know for sure.

For Max' sake, we decided not to get surgery. It would have given him 10 months but what would his quality of life be and we didn't want to take the chance that something might go wrong with removal of the lymph node because of the adhesion to his spine. There is also spread to his lungs.

Right now, you would not know there is anything wrong with him except for the occasional licking of his bum. He's a happy boy. We know anything can happen in the next while.

We give him turmeric paste a few times a day, some Aloe Vera liquid and we are looking into dried mushroom broth made from Shiitake, Maitake and Reishi dried mushrooms.

Apr 23, 2017
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Anal adenocarcinoma
by: Anonymous

I just found out my 13yr. Poodle has adenocarcinoma. I do my own anal gland expressions is probably why I found this early. My regular vet done an aspiration but then referred me to a teaching hospital which has already done all the required testing that was able to tell me of her condition. As of now it doesn't show to be in her lymph nodes, her calcium levels are low, and the tumor is around 3cm. She showed no signs of a problem other than me finding this. It should be part of a routine exam. The soonest they can get her in for surgery was two weeks, which I have opted for since they said we are on the good side of bad news since it isn't in her lymph nodes. Will update post op surgery.

Apr 10, 2017
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Anal sac cancer
by: Rowan

My pal Jet, a handsome lab, was diagnosed last Oct. with metastatic anal sac cancer. The lymph nodes were greatly enlarged. Breathing rattled. Vet recommended no surgery or radiation because of side effects and low expectations. Don't put him through it, he said.

Here we are today. He is losing the use of his right hind leg. The tumors are located near that hip, which also has dysplasia and arthritis.

Anyone encountered this and know of a treatment? The vet said I might try radiation to shrink tumors.

Mar 14, 2017
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Some Hope
by: Anonymous

Just wanted to give a little hopeful news here. Our Lab, Abby, was diagnosed with this condition in Jan. of 2015. She had surgery in Feb. of 2015. The tumor was small and was removed with close margins.

Abby is still doing great, and it's been over two years now since her diagnosis. Still no regrowth in the anal area. She will celebrate her 14th birthday in June. I will say this: our vet has always done anal gland checks on Abby over the years. Maybe this is what has helped her. So I, too, would advise all pets to get checked regularly there.

Love and prayers to all of you going through this.

Feb 16, 2017
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Natural Remedies
by: Masing

My 8 year old black lab, Sailor, who I firmly believe is an Angel here on earth was diagnosed with Anal Sac carcinoma. He had surgery to remove the tumor and we are now faced with chemotherapy/radiation--not sure we can afford it.

Has anyone tried natural remedies? If so what?

Jan 13, 2017
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My Dog's Story
by: Natalie

Parker was diagnosed with anal carcinoma in June 2015 after we noticed he was having difficulty jumping up onto our couch and being lethargic. Upon his exam the cancerous tumor was discussed and later confirmed. We had it surgically removed followed by several chemo treatments. We were told he'd have 1-2 years at best.

7 months later, it is back in his lymph nodes. We were given a few options but at this time we feel the quality of his life outweighs the quantity of his life. He is 7.

He's pretty spoiled anyway but now he will be even more. Our hearts are heavy because like your precious dogs, ours is our joy in this crazy and unpredictable world. He is the love of our lives. Best wishes to you all and keep our Parker in your prayers as we will your beloved family pets.

Mar 29, 2016
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Anal Sac Tumor
by: Stacey

We just helped our sweet 12 year old Dachshund/Spaniel mix across the rainbow bridge yesterday, March 27. She was diagnosed with this condition in October of 2015 and the signs were a little weight loss and excessive water drinking.

The tumor was discovered and cancer was also in her lymph nodes. Surgery option was not promising, as it would lead to permanent incontinence and high infection rate. It would not cure her, only buy some time...maybe. A lot to put a dog through for a "maybe".

We tried chemo for a month, but it made her miserable so we stopped. We loved and pampered her the last months of her life. They didn't expect her to live past Thanksgiving of 2015, but she made it all the way to Easter of 2016.

She had a good quality of life until the last couple of weeks when the tumor invaded her spine and she couldn't walk. For two weeks we carried her outside to go to the bathroom and hoped the paralysis might be unrelated and there would be improvement, all for naught. She began to deteriorate quickly, paralysis got worse and began panting excessively all the time and seemed physically uncomfortable. We decided it was time for us to let her go, we did not want a painful end for her. It was a difficult decision. Her mind was good until the end.

Jan 07, 2016
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Anal gland tumor
by: Bill

Hi all

We as a family have a beautiful soft hearted 7yr old labradoodle who has been diagnosed with anal sac carcinoma.

Trimmed, bathed, pampered him at Christmas 2015 and felt a lump on his rear end by his tail.

He showed no signs of irritation, dragging, or ill health.
He had been drinking a little more than usual but not much.
Had his yearly check up at the vets in July 2015 and also went into local kennels for 2 weeks, all good.

We have been told months, devastated.

All we can now do is love and pamper till the end.

Love you stormy dog.

Nov 30, 2015
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Diagnosis too late
by: Brian

Buddy, my 9 year old lab mix was diagnosed with anal sac carcinoma today. He had no symptoms that I noticed until just 3 days ago when he lost his appetite, became lethargic, and and his hind legs became weak.

He can still walk, but with a stilted gait, and his back is arched up slightly.

Preliminary diagnosis was 'possible pancreatitis', which needed confirmation via ultrasound, although initial x-ray also indicated a white mass near his bladder, which was pushing his colon down.

I took him to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital, where a rectal exam showed a large anal sac mass (at least 5 cm) and the palpation also found enlarged sublumbar lymph nodes.

Before doing the ultrasound to confirm, the vet recommended an additional chest x-ray to see how far the cancer had metastasized. There were about a dozen small white spots in his lungs.

With this level of involvement, surgery was not likely to improve life expectancy. Oral chemo was also offered as an additional palliative step, but I declined. So, I have taken Buddy home to nurture, cuddle and spoil him during his last days.

Rectal exams were not part of Buddy's yearly exams. I wish they had been. Or maybe not. He was free of pain and other symptoms which may not have been the case if we had intervened with surgery months ago.

He is on mild pain and anti-nausea meds now, which I hope helps him hang onto quality of life for awhile.

Sep 29, 2015
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Recurring anal sac carcinoma
by: Robbin Smith

Our 12 yr old dachshund had a tumor removed 3 months ago and sent off to determine if it was cancerous. The results were very aggressive anal sac carcinoma.

She's done well since the surgery with some constipation. Routine vet visits revealed heart issues and she is on heart medication. She can't jump up on the couch anymore. We have to lift her up. We noticed she started whimpering when we picked her up under her front legs, so my husband took her to the vet last Wednesday. Our vet is in the hospital so they referred her to another vet. They gave her dye and did X-rays that revealed there is another tumor on her spinal column pressing down on her intestines. They have sent information to LSU veterinarian hospital in Baton Rouge. We are waiting to see if they think surgery to remove yet another tumor is feasible.

Last night she had a bad night coughing, gagging, restless. When we pick her up poop leaks out. Waiting for vet to call us today to see if we can give her something for the pain or what to expect. Very heartbreaking.

She is a very loving sweet part of our life. Our pain is unbearable. I just pray she doesn't suffer. Has anyone else had recurring tumors?

Jul 29, 2015
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Bungee - My Best Friend
by: Elisa

My dog (Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix) was diagnosed with anal cancer in April 2015. He is 15 yrs old.

I elected for no surgery due to age and finances. I decided to give him the best quality of life as I can. We spend lots of quality time together outdoors taking lots of photographs and make memories. Still active and has an appetite.

The only problem is his constipation. There are some days that is easier than others. I have included canned pumpkin puree and Metamucil to his meal. Mainly keep him on soft food diet which seem to help.

I know once that time comes, my dog will let me know. In the meantime, I will keep giving him all the love and kisses while he's here and will not let him suffer.

Apr 03, 2015
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Anal Sac Cancer
by: Anonymous

Hi all,

My beloved long-haired dachshund Sasha was diagnosed with cancer of the anal sac in November 2014 at age 11.

It was a total shock, only discovered when she started drinking excessively (due to high calcium levels it turns out). No other signs, other than slight constipation. After talking with the vet I learned the prognosis was not good - totally devastating. I decided to see a specialist and learned there was no spread the the lymph nodes - we caught it early, thank goodness! So Sasha had the surgery over Thanksgiving and got through it just great.

We decided not to do chemo or radiation given her age - we are just going to enjoy the remaining time we have together.

Here we are in April, and so far so good! I want to wish you all the best of luck - I know there are some very difficult decisions to be made, but you will ultimately do what's right for you and your best friend.

Feb 19, 2015
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Anal sac cancer
by: Anonymous

My Oscar was diagnosed with anal sac cancer and I was completely shocked. He was never sick. It was during a routine cleaning that it was found.

He had surgery and chemo. It added 2 years to his life. He lived to 14 and I would do it again. He was tired after chemo but he did great.

I miss him so much but I am grateful we had more time together because of his treatment.

Good luck everyone. These guys are our babies.

Oct 05, 2014
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Anal gland tumour in my 12 year old Irish Setter Rufus
by: Vanessa

Rufus was diagnosed 11 months ago with a tumour the size of a golf ball & given 2 to 10 months to live if malignant. The vet castrated him while he was under the anaesthetic as this would stop the growth of the tumour if it was benign.

It turned out to be malignant, but a slow growing tumour (a low rate of mitosis). A couple of months ago the vet examined his anal glands & there was hardly any increase in size in the tumour. This may be due to the fact that it is slow growing, or the castration may have helped if it is testosterone driven. Rufus still eats well & defaecates OK. He has put on weight over the year & is not as energetic, but this may be the result of the castration.

The vet advised against surgery as it makes them incontinent & healing is very difficult due to the risk of infections & his life would be unlikely to be extended. He has had surgery twice previously, a malignant melanoma removed from his eyelid at age 5 & a malignant melanoma removed from his gums 2 years ago, both slow growing & in both cases no chemotherapy or radiotherapy were given.

Aug 31, 2014
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Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma
by: Liz

I have read the many comments on several dogs with this particular cancer. I also have a nearly 10 yr old female who is a 5 yr breast cancer survivor from a stage 2 complex carcinoma.

While Toddy is celebrating her having survived breast cancer, she now is battling a new cancer. The surgery removed the entire tumor, and further x-rays and an abdominal ultra sound and bloodwork has not revealed any spreading of this anal sac cancer. Their is no lymph node involvement and the mitotic index is low (between 0 and 1) which means it is moving very slowly.

It is important to know what the prognosis and the staging or mitotic index or whatever rating your dog's cancer is given from the pathology report, in order to have an idea as to what would be the best source of treatment for your dog.

Toddy has had 3 chemo treatments and has had no issues, and now she has begun her 20 radiation treatments, 3 down and 17 more to go. She will complete the remaining 3 chemo treatments once she has healed from her radiation treatments. She is a good candidate for treatment with there not being any spreading to any other organs or lymph nodes.

Please be sure to inquire about the staging of your dog's cancer before deciding the course of treatment. Good luck to all with this terrible disease. Do not give up and as long as you see "life" in your dog's eyes, then help them fight the good fight. This is my motto and I have at this time no regrets for helping my girl fight for her life.

Jul 02, 2014
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Update on comment from May 2,2013
by: Pamella McGrath

Just wanted to update my comment from May 2,2013.

Our sweet Otis pasted away on August 4,2013. But he lived a happy life for 10 cancer free years and then another 1 1/2 with the anal cancer.

Not only that, the day before, our dog Banjo's nose started to bleed and we brought him in and they said he also had cancer. They couldn't stop the bleeding and had to let him go to the Rainbow Bridge too. I had never heard of this before and he was fine otherwise. So it was a terrible heartbreaking 2 days and I miss them every day.

I still swear by the Aloe Vera and give it to my other dogs daily now as a preventative and they even seem to feel better as they are all getting old. I've also read up on Cat's Claw and it sounds like it helps a lot of different ailments including cancer so maybe that will help.

Don't give up and I hope you can spend many more years with your furbaby.

Mar 25, 2014
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My Sheltie
by: cathyg

My Sheltie was diagnose with the same cancer 10 months ago. Since she is only seven, we decided on the surgery, the removal of the anal carcinoma and two abdominal lymph nodes. It was a tough recovery and very expensive but I have no regrets. We decided on no chemo or radiation because statistically, it does not increase a dogs life span.

Today, due to excessive thirst and trouble defecating, we took her to the vet and found out her cancer is spreading. She seems to be a bit fatigued too with a decrease in appetite, but she is still happy and "ok".

I will not let her suffer though, so we're going to watch her. The vet says two weeks to a month. We'll see. She's eight now and I'm just not ready to lose her, but like I said, I won't let her suffer. We've gotten 10 more months with her because of the surgery and honestly I thought we would have more. Now, we will just give her any foods she loves and spend quality time. She's brought us so much love and happiness and I will miss her terribly one day.

Good luck everyone.

Mar 21, 2014
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Anal Gland Cancer
by: Anonymous

My dog Eddie, who is 11 1/2 was diagnosed last week with anal glad cancer after the vet did an aspiration on the tumor. It appears not to have spread yet and is the size of a peanut. However, I was told that just because they can't find anything in his lymph nodes with the ultrasound, it doesn't mean the tumor has not sent seeds out. My dilemma is whether to have the tumor surgically removed or just let him live out the rest of his days w/o surgery/radiation/chemo. Does anyone have experience with a pet who had this cancer with no evidence of spread into the lymph nodes? If so, did your pet survive longer than he normally would have without recurrence of cancer?

May 06, 2013
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My Dog was recently diagnosed with anal cancer
by: Lisa

Hi there...more than a month ago, our American Eskimo which is 13 was diagnosed with anal cancel with a swollen sub-lumbar. We had surgery scheduled but decided that day we didn't want to put her through the surgery. She shakes uncontrollably whenever we take her to the vets and is just happy as can be at home.

I also asked my vet when it was time could we give her something at home to put her to rest and they said no. I see a post from someone on here that they had it scheduled to do that. Could you give me more information on that? I am in Maryland. Thank you.

We also tried 4Life Factor Plus which is a holistic treatment and she was sick for two days so we took her off of it. Any suggestions? I want her around as long I can have her. She's our Princess!

May 02, 2013
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Aloe Vera
by: Pamella McGrath

I just brought my Otis to the vet to have a couple of teeth pulled. A year ago he was diagnosed with anal cancer and given 2-5 months. As of today he is still eating, pooping though I have to clean him after due to the baseball sized tumor. It was found that he also had a heart murmur during the last visit.

Today the blood work shows high calcium level but otherwise his heart and kidneys are fine. They are quite surprised he is still alive and doing so well. I give him 3 tablespoons of Aloe Vera a day. I swear by it for so many things. I started with 1 tablespoon because until they get used to it they can get diarrhea and after a few days add another and then another. Also rub Castor oil mixed with aloe Vera (warmed) on the tumor.

Some people say the tumors have broken open and healed. As far as Otis it hasn't healed but seems soothing to him. He has mostly good days with a couple bummer days but I think getting the tooth out will help. I know what you mean about some days he is just up and running and others he is tired, but I know I'm not willing to give up yet and neither is he obviously.

I also started adding baking soda to the water as it is supposed to do something to the tumors. We'll see.

Good luck to all of you as I know how hard this news is. Seriously look into the Aloe Vera. A neighbor years ago was diagnosed with brain cancer and given 2 months. His wife researched and gave him the Aloe Vera. He died but 12 years later in a fire. I use the Aloe Vera gel and put it in an eyedropper and just squirt it in. He actually likes the taste.

Nov 19, 2012
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Rescue dog with rectal cancer
by: Max

We have a sharpei/husky mix of ten years with the same diagnosis. We are also going the holistic route to help his last few days. We try warm compresses with baking powder for the lump but it has been difficult to apply to the area. We put colostrum powder in his food to help his immune system (the powder can be purchased at health food store). We add veggies, sardines, fish, olive oil... anything holistic and healthy to diet. You want to get more alkaline in his diet. Also there are liquid drops that can be added to treats or food to help calm them.

Best of luck to you. We totally understand what you are going through. We also opted out of the surgery and chemo route. Just could not put him through it especially at his age.

Nov 16, 2012
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Beagle
by: Anonymous

My 16 year old Beagle has a confirmed potato size tumor in the anal sac. They told us she would not survive the surgery at her age and most likely be paralyzed because of all of the nerve endings that would have to be cut to get it out. We were sent home with 2 weeks worth of pain meds and told she would become obstructed soon and it would be a painful death. We have a decision to make I know...

Feb 29, 2012
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My shepherd mix has rectal cancer
by: Anonymous

My rescue boy who we believe to be approx 12 yrs old was diagnosed last month with a large rectal tumor. I opted for a biopsy to be sure of the vet's assumption of a fast growing tumor, which the biopsy confirmed. They say nothing can be done - he is too old to endure radiation and it would cost $9,000. We have him on anti-inflammatory meds, pain pills, and mineral oil to allow him soft stools.

He acts ok, has a hearty appetite, doesn't seem to be in pain, just some discomfort when trying to sit or lie down.

My vet says we have a month or little more before he is obstructed, and we will have to make a choice. I can't bear the thought. Is there any holistic options to slow this fast growing tumor? I don't want to lose my boy, or see him die in a cold vets office.

Aug 23, 2011
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I have a similiar situation
by: Debbie V

I found out yeterday that my 12 year old Irish Setter Killian has anal sac cancer with enlarged lymoh nodes in the sub lumbar. Killin was losing weight, drinking and urinating excessively and had stools that were flat and sort of ribbon shaped. I had taken him to the vet and they said everything seemed to be normal and that it was probably that he was old and his kidneys were not functioning like they used to.

Last Friday Killian began panting excessively and could not urinate more than a few drops. I took Killian to the vet and she felt what she thought was a large tumor in his abdomen. The vet then took an x-ray and still could not see what was causing the problem. The vet ended up catherizing Killian and got more than 2 liters of urine. She prescribed something to help his bladder contract and we went back to see how he was doing on Monday.

As of Monday Killian could urinate just in spurts and he would pee himself when sleeping due to his bladder being so full. We did an ultrasound and found he has anal sac cancer which spread to his lymph nodes in the sub lumbar. The tumors are restricting his colon and ureter so we scheduled an at home euthanization for the next day (today) as he also has a lot of arthirits in his spine and his prognosis was not good.

Killian is 12 and a half years old. The euthanization is supoosed to happen today and he seems like his old self - he has peed and pooped and has follwed me around and I am REALLY confused about what to do. I do not want him to suffer and he has lost 7 lbs. in 3 days but how do you put down a family member you love when they don't appear to be in any pain? I know in time it will have to be done but am I making that desision too soon or just prolonging the inevitable?

Aug 08, 2011
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Anal sac tumor
by: Jen

My 11 1/2 year old shepherd mix has a tumor that is scheduled to be removed and tested. He's been drinking a lot of water and has had anal gland infections for about 6 months, so I think this has been there a while. He's fear aggressive and hasn't had a full physical exam in years. I've had to take that into consideration of his quality of life. If this turns out to be cancer I've decided to do no treatment at all. He's lived a good life and I will hate to say goodbye but I won't have his last few months filled with vet visits that terrify and stress him so much.

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