unusual lumps

Question
My neighbor has a 5 month old chocolate lab (F). The pup is very healthy and Erica, the owner, is a bit concerned about some bilateral lumps which appear on the pups face. They are located below the eye socket and to the sides (picture the sharp points of the cheek) The odd thing is that they feel almost like they are fluid filled, and she has noticed that sometimes they appear larger, or one side will be a bit larger than the other. It has a very subtle appearance, nothing to cause undue alarm. My concern is that the vet she is taking the dog to to be spayed (this friday, 7/11) has mentioned removing them because they could be cancerous(?). I have worked in veterinary medicine, and I was trained by a great vet, who probably would have done a better exam (this other vet has never examined these "sacs") Is there anything you can suggest trying before he removes these glands, and charges her a great deal of money to do so. Could these be part of the tear duct and drainage system? Maybe a deep gland that might benefit from a flush with a cannula? Thank you such more for taking the time to answer---I just hope it is in time   Elizabeth Robison

Answer
Elizabeth -

Without examining the animal it is difficult to say what those two lumps are; however, I think that they are salivary glands.  I would suggest that you seek another opinion before you have anything drastic done.  I am certain that you can find a veterinarian that can help.  

Cancer at such a young age is fairly rare  - make sure you seek another doctor for a second opinion.  I think you will be glad you did.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM