Brandi’s Melanoma Canine Cancer

This does not represent Veterinarians, specialists, or doctors in the animal industry. Instead, it is my personal experience with the canine cancer diagnosis of Melanoma Cancer from start to finish.

So many unanswered questions. Treatment plans, veterinarians, specialist, all which proved to be invaluable to me providing a more positive outcome. Knowing Melanoma cancer is not curable is crucial. However, success rates for treatments are high with early diagnosis in dogs. Recognizing the signs to watch for would have been invaluable. None of which were diagnosed or identified by my local veterinarian.

After much research, understanding canine cancer and proper diets with quality ingredients is crucial. Exercise and regular checkups with a qualified veterinarian are essential. These include CNC blood work and panels, which can help identify any abnormalities in your dog’s health.

Cancer in Dogs: What to Know

You should never take lightly knowing the blood panel numbers are not normal. Discovering lumps on your dog is serious, regardless of your vet’s opinion. Further research is necessary. This includes autopsies and Ultrasounds to identify any chance of canine cancer cells inside your dog.

Brandi had two lumps in her belly area. Both were diagnosed as non-cancerous by her vet. Although they may not have caused her cancer, several of her blood panel numbers were not normal. These were identified as “not to worry” by her vet. I could have detected any cancer early on with an ultrasound.

Even after a inflated spine area near her tail was examined by her vet, there was no suggestion or indication. An ultrasound was not deemed necessary to identify any chance of cancer. Only if I know then what I know now! She was diagnosed with Melanoma cancer after being seen by another vet who recommended seeing a specialist right away.

Do your own research. Be proactive in your dog’s health. If you truly want the best care, use only a Board-Certified Veterinarian. They have extended education and knowledge beyond a basic DVM (Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine).

If you are required to see a specialists, do your research first. Basic Google reviews do not tell the whole story. Look for a Board-Certified specialists and with many years of experience. Brandi’s Oncologist only had 2-years of experience.

Most Common Canine Cancer in Dogs

Upon her passing, I never received anything offering her condolences, by phone, text or email from her Oncologists. As her doctor, you would expect more. They had the obligation and knowledge to help Brandi. They failed to fight the cancer.

Be careful when you choose to neuter or spay. Some research shows doing so too early can make a difference in bone structure and health early on. Other research shows having it done very early on can prevent cancer. I suggest you do your research.

I find it appalling. It is unfortunate that some doctors and organizations in the Veterinarian field focus more on profits. Emergency clinics also prioritize their profits over their clients.

Charging thousands of dollars for diagnosis and treatments to whom can not simply afford it. It leaves no alternative but to euthanize their beloved pet. Euthanizing a family member due to costs is tragic.

Brandi had good pet insurance as well. Without a fight, her expenses may not have been covered. The fight was to determine her health problems were not a pre-existing condition. Another lesson learned.

If your dog’s medical records show a checkup for any form of illness, insurance companies will try to deny coverage. They will do the same for an accident or disease. They base this on pre-existing conditions to avoid paying the claim. Know what is in your dog’s medical records and be prepared to fight!

I am not a nutritionist. I researched a lot about what I should have been feeding Brandi. After learning so much, I realized it may have made the difference early on. If you are feeding your dog commercial dog food, pay attention. Especially kibble. You may be ordering your dog a death sentence.

Keep Your Pup Healthy with Proper Diet, Exercise, and Training

If you truly want the best diet for your dog, fewer vet bills and reduced chance of cancer, be sure you read the label ingredients and your dog is getting this in the diet:

AVOID THE 3 DOG HEALTH DESTROYERS

1.Preservatives (BHY)

2.Fillers (Barley, Oatmeal, White Rice, Soy, Wheat, Corn, Corn gluten, Wheat, Barley, Flour)

3.Meat-by Products (Chicken by-product, Beef by-product, etc. Beef & Bone Meal).

3 SUPER NUTIRENTS

1. Organic organ meal (Kidneys, Liver, Heart, Brain)
2. Omega 3 DHA
3. Prebiotics (Flax, Pea Flour, Carrots, Ginger, Broccoli, Blueberries, apples, etc. ).

Brandi passed on Easter of all days after 13-years of age, being loved and cared for from 12-weeks by myself. There are so many memories of joyful walks, camping, and swimming at the lake. Her passing was devastating to me. It takes a lifetime to grieve and try to move on.

I have a memorial of her in my home. It includes pictures and her ashes in a beautiful ash box. There is also a photo to remind me of all the years of joy and happiness she brought me. I truly miss her and she will never be replaced.

I sincerely hope you never have to go through what I did with Brandi. Yet, if you do, I urge you to be proactive. Do your research on canine cancer in dogs. Also, research spleen cancer in dogs. Take what you are told and hear with a grain of salt from everyone. Be ready to fight for your dog’s health. Know that if and when they do cross the rainbow bridge, they are happy and pain-free.