Osteocarcinoma (also known as osteosarcoma) refers to cancer of the bone. In dogs, this typically starts out as a localized cancer, treatable but ultimately incurable. Owners of dogs with osteocarcinoma must make ethical decisions regarding the treatment of their pets.
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Amputation
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The most common initial treatment for osteocarcinoma in dogs is amputation. To reduce the spread of this quickly spreading cancer, veterinarians often recommend the removal of the entire affected limb.
Chemotherapy
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Dogs with osteocarcinoma typically begin chemotherapy treatments following amputation. According to Pet Education, veterinarians typically prescribe cisplatin, carboplatin and doxorubicin.
Prognosis with Treatment
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Osteocarcinoma is a terminal diagnosis. With effective treatment, dogs with this disease may live at least a year.
Ethics
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Owners considering treatment of osteocarcinoma in sick dogs must consider the ethics of treatment. Dogs cannot rationally understand the logic behind chemotherapy or amputation and typically have a poor quality of life as a result of these treatments.
Expert Insight
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According to Vet Surgery Central, amputation is a palliative treatment. This means that it is performed to lessen the dog's suffering. Chemotherapy is required for effective treatment of the osteocarcinoma.
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