Denise Carlstrom asked 3 weeks ago
Senior Bulldog With Bleeding Oral Tumor Expert Advise Needed
My beloved ❤️ senior 12 year old English bulldog has a tumor in her lower left teeth and jaw area diagnosed by bleeding symptoms and x-ray from my vet.
She is too old to surgically remove it so the vet has prescribed an the antibiotic to manage the odor.
I also use some baking soda in her water to help balance her pH along with Oxyfresh to help the smell.
My vet says it will progress fast and that it won't kill her but that it can get messy and ugly looking.
It is now in the front of her mouth. Is there anything I can do to help manage this?
🙏Thanks for the help!
Dr. Roy Kraemer Staff answered 7 days ago
Should My Bulldog Bleeding Mouth Tumor Be Removed?
Dear Denise
Thank you for sharing the intimate and touching photos of your pet.
I am truly sorry that you and your bulldog are going through this. I completely understand your dilemma, and considering your dog's advanced age, I agree that focusing on comfort and quality of life may be the most reasonable approach, regardless of the exact tumor type or long-term prognosis.
What Are Non Cancer Oral Tumors in Bulldogs?
The good news is that not every oral "tumor" is cancer.
In Bulldogs, one of the most common oral growths is an epulis, which is a benign (non-cancerous) overgrowth of the gum tissue.
Although it is not malignant, it can become quite large, firm, bleed easily, if it is repeatedly irritated.
Are Most Oral Tumor Malignant?
The first step, if you decide to pursue a diagnosis, is determining exactly what type of growth it is and whether it has any malignant potential.
Oral Tumor Biopsy & Histopathology
Unfortunately, this usually requires a small biopsy, which is typically performed under a brief anesthesia.
Are Imaging Like X-Ray Diagnostically Beneficial?
Dental X-rays or other imaging studies can also provide valuable information, but they also generally require anesthesia.
What is The Prognosis For Bulldog Oral Tumors?
More aggressive oral tumors, such as squamous cell carcinoma or fibrosarcoma, carry a more guarded prognosis.
Even when they grow slowly, they can eventually become painful, infected and abscessed, develop an unpleasant odor, bleed easily, and loosen or displace nearby teeth.
How To Treat Oral Tumors in Aging Bulldogs?
In senior Bulldogs, treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy are not always the best choice.
Their age, overall health, expected quality of life, and the potential benefits and risks of treatment should all be carefully discussed with your veterinarian before making a decision.
Is Palliative Treatment For Senior Bulldogs Tumors a Good Option?
For many older dogs, palliative (comfort-focused) care is often the kindest and most appropriate option.
This may include:
- Soft canned quality diet
- Gentle dental antiseptic rinses or wipes (such as our Bully Oral Care products).
- Supportive supplements like our Bully Immune and Bully Comfort formulas to help support overall wellness and comfort.
- Prescription medications, when needed, including pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroids, or antibiotics.
- Bully probiotics and digestive enzymes: whenever antibiotics are prescribed, I also recommend adding our Bully Probiotics to help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Oral Tumor Treatment Dilemma Summery:
I know this is not an easy decision, but whatever path you choose should focus on keeping your Bulldog as comfortable and happy as possible.
That is often the greatest gift we can give our senior companions.
For more information about cancer and tumors in bulldogs you can visit my articles
Wishing you and your Bulldog all the best.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kraemer Vet4Bulldog
