My old dog has mammary tumors. Should I remove them if they might return?

Mia's life expectancy after the tumor removal depends on if the tumors are benign or malignant, and if the cancer has spread should they be malignant. If the cancer has spread, the extent of the spread determines the outcome. I think having her spayed is a good idea, as she will still be prone to developing a pyometra with her uterus left. A pyometra is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment, and that would require another emergency surgery to fix should she get one. No, she's not too little to get this surgery, and I strongly recommend it. Best of luck.

As she is unspayed it's very likely a primary tumor of the mammary gland, it's not possible to know if it has already sent metastases to other places in the body though. the recommendation is to get it removed surgically ASAP.

Spaying her may not significantly decrease her risk of developing mammary gland tumors at this age, but it would definitely prevent a pyometra in the future. If her blood work is normal and her physical exam is "clear", she should be spayed. Your vet can tailor an anesthetic protocol taking Miny's age into consideration.

Yes, it is most likely mammary (breast) cancer. Very common to happen in dogs that are not spayed. That is why we recommended spaying dogs early in life. 1. I suggest you find a vet that will do both surgeries at once. There is no sense in doing two surgeries a month apart. They can both be done safely at the same time in most cases. She may be one of those cases that the mass is extensive and that is why your vet does not want to do them at the same time. I don't know since I have not examined her myself but in most cases I would do both surgeries together. Just my opinion. 2. You need to get her spayed, even at 8 years old. If you don't, then she may end up with more mammary tumors or a pyometra or she may pass away. Yes, a blood test before the spay is indicated absolutely. 3. It should not change her much. If you don't do it then she can certainly die just like a person with breast cancer so you really have no option but to have it done. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

I am so sorry that you are exeoeriencing these problems with Wiggles I am sure it's very upsetting. Because mammary tumours are Hormone linked I would advise spaying her when she has the tumours removed. The last thing you would want is for Wiggles to have another mammary tumour in the future and therefore another surgery. For anaesthetics for older dogs many precautions are taken. Your veterinarian will discuss these with you to help put your mind at ease. They include blood pressure monitoring and intravenous fluid treatment before, during and after the surgery. I believe this is the best course of action and I send you the best of luck.

Mammary cancer is not normally considered to be a hereditary problem, so to the best of my knowledge this should not be a concern for the puppies. However, in most cases, it is recommended to spay female dogs with a history of mammary cancer because this is a hormonally-driven disease; so, remaining intact and breeding may not be recommended for the mother dog herself. I would recommend discussing this further with your regular veterinarian, since he/she is familiar with the details of your dog's case (what type of cancer she had, how aggressive it was, whether the tumor was completely removed, etc.) and can help you make a more informed decision.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! That is certainly possible and recommended. Age is not necessarily a contraindication to surgery if they are being careful with the anesthesia. Keep in mind that most dogs that develop mammary tumors are older and have surgery and do fine. Best of luck!