Re: Help for Barney?

Steph Worsley — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:48:24 GMT

Firstly I would suggest thoracic rads (left and right lateral and dv all inflated) if not already done as this will let you know if there are already mets.

Where I am we have seen a number of osteosarcs, some have opted for amputation others haven't. I know a number of 3 legged ex racers and they cope extremely well especially on the front leg, obviously this is a decision only the owners can make.

radiotherapy is generally only used as a palliative pain relieving measure.

My suggestion would be to get the vet to ring the local oncology department (not sure which area you are in but we offer free advice calls) to get some advice from people who deal with it on a daily basis, unfortunately my area of interest isnt oncology so I can only comment with cases I have dealt with in passing

Re: Help for Barney?

Emma Bartlett — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:21:06 GMT

Tara......my female rottie had her hind leg amputated after being diagnosed with OS in her stifle when she was 4 1/2 yrs old. The only reason i went for that option was to give us time to come to terms with it as she was doing really well on 3 legs for the few days she had been lame. The histopath on amputated leg came back as high grade osteosarcoma.

On discussion with the referral vet we decided against chemo/radio but i felt i had to do something so i took her to see a vet who specialised in complementary therapies (the witch doctor as my husband called him, he wasn't convinced that the happy thoughts he vet suggested we channel to Tara were the way forward!) I switched her to raw diet on his advice (went with it as i had nothing to lose and i wasn't convinced that the happy thoughts alone would help!!) and he gave me a combination of herbs and supplements to support her immune system which she had for a year.........that will be 3 years and 7 months ago.

The referral practice i took her too gave her 3 - 6 months without chemo and she is doing amazing well without. I know that over 90% of OS have already spread by the time you notice clinical symptoms but i still have my girl and she is full of life and touch wood showing no signs of slowing down just yet!

My advice would be to just do what you think is right for the individual dog........i wouldn't have a leg amputated from my male rottweiler as he wouldn't cope he just couldn't get the hang of not walking on his sore leg after hip surgery and he would be miserable.

Tara looking for rabbits!