961. An old dog pants heavily. This is a serious health problem for the old dog.

AN OLD DOG PANTS HEAVILY - AN ULTRASOUND TO CHECK FOR LIVER CANCER? E-MAIL TO DR SING DATED APRIL 26, 2012 To: judy@toapayohvets.com Dear Mdm I would like to make an enquiry about my dog (Schnauzer-cross). She is 15 years old. We brought her to the vet as she was panting heavily and her stomach swelled and keeps hiding in the room, away from the rest of the family. X-ray results shows that she has an enlarged liver. Also, the blood test shows that she has high Calcium, high platelets and white blood cells. Most likely, says the vet, my dog has cancer and recommended an ultrasound at its hospital. Meanwhile, the vet has given her some liver medication and my dog's condition has improved though the vet did share that this would be temporary. I am worried about the costs of sending my dog to their hospital as I did some research and found that the hospital tend to order several tests and cost of the treatment usually escalates. If she is found to have cancer, it's likely that we will not opt for treatment as she is old and already her quality of life is poor, with poor eyesight etc. Does your clinic offer ultrasound services and how much does it cost? Is ultrasound the best option for my dog now? My family wants to see her pass on without suffering too much. What should I do to alleviate her suffering? I would really appreciate if you could advise me. Please feel free to call me if need be. Rgds Name & Phone


E-MAIL REPLY FROM DR SING DATED APRIL 26, 2012 I am Dr Sing from Toa Payoh Vets. We spoke by phone today Apr 26, 2012, 3.31 pm and the following is my brief reply to you: In my opinion, the important health care issues in your old dog are: 1. what is the cause of "panting heavily" and "swollen stomach" 2. what is the cause of the "high platelet and white blood cell count" Is there liver cancer or not? Is there a cure? If the cause of the illness is known and treatment can be effective, it should not be "panting heavily".