Taking Seamus to the vet... *Update test results*

[L.M.]

We are bringing Seamus to the vet this afternoon.  I'm the type of person who likes to know as much as I can before talking to a vet (or any doctor for that matter) so I'm looking for some ideas.  We found a swollen lymph node (pretty sure it's what it is) on the back of Seamus' back leg.  He is 2 years old, has thus far been a healthy big guy.  He is neutered, well-exercised...  From my research online it seems like it can be any number of things.  I don't want to even think about the worst case scenario...but of course that's in the back of my mind.  I've also read that a swollen lymph node can be a sign of lyme disease.  He does get the lyme shot, but who knows what that really does.  We also did just return from a vacation in Tennessee, where we did do some hiking with the pups.  He has been getting Frontline as well (although I wanted to stop giving him that in the future.)  Other than some limping when running on that leg and acting kind of babyish the past day, he is not showing any other symptoms.  He is still eating, playing, pooping, etc.  Not overly tired from what I can tell.  The node (or growth or who knows what it is..) is pretty large...you can't see it but can easily feel it.  Has anyone experienced anything like this with a younger dog?? My husband thought maybe a muscle pull or something that would swell his leg a little, but when I googled canine lymph nodes I found a diagram and there is a node in the spot where I feel a bump.  Can anyone also think of any questions I should be asking my vet as well?  Like I said before, I like to be thorough with my vet because sometimes he doesn't offer as much information as he should (in my opinion at least lol).  I will keep everyone updated once we get home later this afternoon.  Thanks so much everyone.

[L.M.]

One more thing...before our vacation, he did get a bordatella shot for the first time...that was now about 2 1/2 weeks ago...could that have any effect do you think??

[F, Calla & Luca]

I really can't give you anything specific to ask your vet. The vet should, I hope, be able to tell you whether it is a lymph node. If it's anything systemic other nodes should be enlarged a swell. So perhaps it's a cyst or something else. The vet may well have questions for you. I hope it's nothing major, good luck.

[L.M.]

Thank you.  I have been checking for other swollen nodes and can't find any...so I'm keeping hopeful that maybe it is just a cyst or something not major (fingers crossed!!)

[Bonnie and Kona]

We took 4 yr old Kona to the vet on Friday because we found a lump. The vet said he doesn't worry about it being cancer if it is all of the three things below. If it has any one of the characteristics then they do more tests:

1. symmetrical shape-- not irregular

2. soft-- not hard to the touch

3. movable-- not fixed to one spot

Hope this helps. I'm sorry you are worried. We were, too. Hoping for the very best result.

[F, Calla & Luca]

Actually, I think you meant if it doesn't have these characteristics. Unfortunately the shape, fixation and firmness don't necessarily apply to lymph nodes.

[L.M.]

Thanks Bonnie!  I have actually had a scare myself and my own doctor told me these things as well.  I was lucky and it turned out to be a benign tumor.  I'm PRAYING that Seamus will have the same outcome.  His "bump" or node is not irregular shaped and is movable...but it's large.  The size is what makes me most nervous.  Thanks so much for your kind words and will keep you updated!  =)

[Bonnie and Kona]

Kona's was about 2 1/2 inches across. I had washed and shaved him the week before and didn't notice it. Scared me so much. Hoping Sweet Seamus is just fine!

[Leslie J]

No advice, but I hope that your visit to the vet proves to be reassuring!

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

I too come here for answers so no advice - just WELL WISHES.

[Camilla and Darwin]

Good luck at the vet, hope it's nothing serious.

[Jennifer and Jack]

YUCK, I hate having to worry about our babies... I am waiting to take Jack on Thursday and I have a huge knot in my stomach already.... I hope and pray all goes well for you.

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Thinking of you and hoping that this is something simple and not at all serious...awaiting an update as soon as you get back from the vet.