The tumor was cancer, but benign...if that makes any sense

Lab results came back.

My vet just called...described in technical terms, what the name of what the tumor was classified as, with all big words...and narrowed it down to my level by saying it was a tumor, it was cancer, but it was not replicating, so it would not be considered malignant, but rather, benign.

He stated it was involving the skin, and although common in GSD's, my dog appears to be more genetically disposed, at risk,  for these tumors...and for a bunch of other yucky stuff too.

He also said that we could have left it, but there is a risk it could have grown to the "malignant" stage.

Nikita has had many surgeries thus far, for stuff like this, and has, right now other things on his skin that have not been removed, because my vet has determined they pose no risk, so my vet is professional and not some guy who whips out the knife at just anything. I love and trust my vet. 

Nikita will be okay, but we just need to keep an eye on him and feel his skin all over, all the time, to detect any other tumors...which I do all the time anyway, which is why I find any outbreaks when they are still small.

My canine friend, he was meant to be with us. Most anyone else would not take on the financial burden he poses. I love him so much. He protects me. Him living a long life, as intended, is worth every penny, every sacrifice. I am of the wolf and stand beside him in mind and spirit.

Another Surgery for Nikita

Another 2 growth removals on my boy...what is this? The 20th surgery?? ...and dental, pedi, laser treatment for pain, 6mt supply heartgard for both pups...but he and my vet are worth every penny. Long day ahead with recovery...

As many times as we have had to go through this with Nikita, it never gets routine...

 
After about the 10th operation, one of my friends suggested "Don't you think it's time to put him down? He is costing you a small fortune" Of course I disagreed. He rescued me far more than I rescued him, and as a responsible owner, when I took him on, with that, came a commitment to him. So we remove these growths, common to the GSD breed, when not removing them jeopardizes his future health. We deal with it and cut back in other, less important, financial areas.

He has Dysplasia too, of both his hips and elbows, and we are managing it, but when he gets to the point where simple management is no longer working, then yes, the time will come...but not now... he'll be 6yrs old in Feb...he has a whole lot of pain-free living to do. Him and I, kindred spirits.

UPDATE: When I picked him up from the vet, found out that the growth on his left shoulder looked suspicious. Not a cyst or a pimple or ingrown hair. We won't find out until late next week, due to the holiday. Hoping for the best for this most precious canine.

The Cupcake Brigade that stalks my every move...every online post...

That I have attracted your attention, regardless if you hate me, I am flattered...totally! LOL! xoxo