Lump on my Dogs neck

Question
Hi!! thank you for taking the time to answer my question or even read it!
I discovered a lump on my dog's neck and I freaked out and thought it was definetly something a vet should see. So i brought her to the vet, but i've always been suspicious of vets because sometimes i feel like they 'do' alot of tests and play on the emotions that man has for his best friend. But i brought her in and she says that she will take a fine needle aspiration(?) im not sure i spelled that correctly. anyway it hasnt gotten bigger, if anything its decreasing in size slowly. or maybe im just being optimistic!  : )
anyway she said if the other lymph nodes swell up then it could be lymphoma cancer which im terrified that she will get. she hasn't been acting weird. she hasn't gotten any other lumps or bumps. its been about 3 days and its driving me crazy so i was really hoping for a second opinion. Thank you sooo much!!!! you will help ease my mind so much!

Answer

Hi Amy,

A fine needle aspiration is not always diagnostic, but in most cases, the technique will provide a definitive diagnosis, or can at least place the problem into a general category of illness, which often helps the veterinarian decide what further steps are needed to reach a definitive diagnosis. Did you ask your vet what were the findings of the fine needle aspiration?

I can tell you that the fact the growth is diminishing in size is a good thing. You do want to keep an eye on your dog, and get prompt medical care if the growth seems to be getting larger, or changes in other ways. Should this be Lymphoma, you don't want to fool around with it. A good way of knowing the precise size of the growth from week to week is to make a tracing of the diameter of the lump on a piece of plastic or wax paper. You can date the tracings so you'll have an accurate record of changes.

Should the growth get bigger, the next diagnostic step after the fine needle aspiration would be to get a biopsy specimen if the diagnosis cannot be made on the basis of of the fine needle aspirate. A biopsy specimen can be obtained by one of several different methods. In most cases, a biopsy will provide a definitive diagnosis, and is generally considered the diagnostic "gold standard".

I have to tell you, I disagree with your assessment that veterinarians "do a lot of tests and play on the emotions of pet owners". Unless your dog can start talking, vets have no choice but to run tests. There are good doctors and bad doctors both for animals and people, but the vast majority have the animals best interests in mind, and aren't out to screw anyone. You may want to try a few vets, before settling on one you like and trust, but having a vet you trust is important, especially as your dog ages. If you know of any pet owners, ask who they use for a vet and if they like him or her. A recommendation is a great way to find a doctor.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti