However, he also has a much larger asymmetrical one behind his front right leg (it feels like a bag of jello was sliped behind his shoulder). We went to the vets today, both were aspirated and had cytologies done (? - slides made up), and both came back benign. However, given the depth, size, and location of the one behind his leg, my vet feels that surgery is called for while before it invades the muscle and nerve tissue of his shoulder and leg, making removal and surgical reconstruction much more complicated and v. possibly impacting his mobility longterm.
So, I had blood tests run for surgery, just in case, to be prepared and avoid a second follow up visit (was a good thing too, given the outcome).
Anyone familiar with this? I have had surgeries before with other dogs, but have no idea about down time, recovery, etc.
Would I be the meanest owner ever if I considered having his teeth cleaned while he's under, if there is still some time left on the anaesthestia? He also has a tag on his eye that could use a quick swipe...These are issues that I would avoid having him put under for solely, they are not terrible, but if he is already down for the count...
Lee is either a BC or Aussie (dems fighting words I know, but I have had v insistant people assure me he is one or the other - I haven't a clue), probably between 8-10, 68#, generally healthy, if that impacts any advice. (I got him 5/6/07 and his first visit to the vets they estimated he was between 5-8, next year between 6-8; he started turning grey around his muzle last winter).





