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My 10 year old Lab has a Thymoma

(8 Posts)
Sehh Sat 05-Jan-19 12:51:35

Hello all,

I wondered if I could ask if anyone has any experience of having a dog with a Thymoma? We were really shocked when our dog was recently diagnosed and are now having to make the decision about him being operated on. He has a CT scan soon and to find out if the tumour is contained. If they can remove all the tumour from his chest cavity the prognosis is good however the operation sounds grim and I’m quite scared for him. Thank you in advance for any advice or stories you may have.

This is my first post and it’s been heart warming seeing how supportive, kind and caring you all are. I’m so pleased I found gransnet.

starbird Sat 05-Jan-19 13:10:38

Sorry I have no experience of Thyoma, but just want to express my sympathy. I would be guided by the vet’s advice - he/she will know best and should take into account your dog’s age and condition. I’m sorry for the sad start to your year - I wish you the strength to cope with whatever needs to happen. ?

MrsJamJam Sat 05-Jan-19 14:11:38

It is such a hard decision with an older dog to work out whether it is worth putting them through invasive surgery. If he can be returned to full health then might be worth it but be guided by your vet. Our five year old retriever has had some skin tumours and chemotherapy was suggested but we think on balance we will just wait and see, it might not recur and he is a happy chap day to day.

Auntieflo Sat 05-Jan-19 14:21:58

Can you weigh up the pros and cons with your vet?

Sometimes, to me, the cure can be worse than the disease.
If you can keep him happy and comfortable without such invasive surgery, and love him for as long as he has, that must be a plus.
I am not sure how long labs live, but wish you and him the best with whatever you decide.

Sehh Sat 05-Jan-19 14:37:19

Thankyou for your kind words starbird, Mrsjamjam and Auntieflo. He’s 42k of dog for the family to love and such a big softy. x

Anja Sat 05-Jan-19 15:18:38

What a worry for you. I’d directly ask your vet ‘what would you do if it was your dog?’. We love our pets unconditionally so you really need a realistic assessment from him or her.

??❤️

megan123 Sat 05-Jan-19 16:04:29

So sorry Sehh to hear about your lovely dog. I would do as Anja suggests and see what the vet says.

My dog is elderly, 12 this year, and has many "lumps" which my vet knows about (we pop in with him regularly to see her) he has cataracts and is quite deaf as well as arthritis. He still loves his food, has his walk out and becomes a "puppy" perhaps once a week and then sleeps almost for the rest of the time.

I would be guided by your vet and your gut instinct about this. This will help your decision.

((( hugs)))

Sehh Sat 05-Jan-19 17:02:18

Thank you Anna and megan123. Our vet says if they can remove all the tumour, if it were her dog then yes, the vet referral said they hope we can go ahead. Fingers crossed that the CT results are favourable for our boy. ?