We found this lesion last week after the dogs got into a fight, and I noticed a speck of blood on the tile. When I flipped up Mocha's lip to look for the source of bleeding, I was shocked to see this growth on her gum. I knew just by looking at it that it was malignant, and her aunt confirmed my fears. So I immediately got Mocha an appointment with the oncologist.
After the oncologist examined Mocha, she explained that the tumor looks suspicious for melanoma, but that it was on the smaller end in terms of size, which confers better prognosis if there isn't any evidence of metastasis. Luckily the CXR showed no tumor spread to the lungs, the CT scan showed very little bony involvement, and on exam, there were no lymph node involvement. So we're going to proceed with surgery next week to have it completely removed. After that, she'll need to get a series of 4 melanoma vaccines. If no recurrences, then she has a good chance to live for at least another 2 years. All and all, this is going to cost us quite a bit, but it'll be worth it (I'll just have to work harder to get my bonus). Ironically, we have to thank Truffalo for all this, because had he not fought with Mocha and drew blood, we would have never discovered this lesion until it is too late.
Makes one wonder about karma - we saved Truffalo from the pound, and he in turn saves Mocha's life.
i thought you guys were getting insurance for the dogs!
ReplyDeleteWe're pulling for you, Mocha!
ReplyDeleteThanks M.
ReplyDeleteWe never gave the insurance much serious thought. At this point, we're still not sure that it's worth it.