When your dog is resting at home between vet appointments—especially after a traumatic emergency episode—it’s easy to feel uncertain about how your pup is truly feeling. Dogs are naturally wired to hide pain, so the signs of discomfort can be very subtle, which often adds to your anxiety as a caregiver.
The first thing to know is that the tumors caused by hemangiosarcoma aren’t painful for your dog. Only if a tumor ruptures and causes emergency internal bleeding can it lead to discomfort. For now, let’s focus on recognizing the subtle signs your dog might show when they’re not feeling their best during quieter, non-emergency moments.
When it comes to managing a dog with hemangiosarcoma, moments of pain or issues can sometimes come as a result of treatment. Some chemo side effects might cause discomfort that could be mistaken for fatigue. Tumors filled with fluid pushing against other organs could lead to mild abdominal swelling, which might feel a bit annoying for your pup. Prescribed steroid medications can be really helpful but may sometimes upset their stomach or cause muscle aches. These are just examples of things that could happen—it doesn’t mean they will. It’s important to keep an eye out but not sit around waiting for everything to go wrong.
Key Indicators of Discomfort
Fortunately, you know your dog inside and out, so a little observation can go a long way in figuring out what’s going on. Anything that doesn’t quite seem like their usual self could be a sign of discomfort, though your dog might be a master at hiding it, making the signs subtle. Here are some common cues to keep an eye out for:
- Physical manifestations, like flattened ears, heavy or shallow panting, whining or yelping, an increased heart rate, tension around the mouth or eyebrows, and excessive licking or scratching of a specific area—even if the issue is internal, they may instinctively lick the spot to soothe themselves. Other signs could be a loss of appetite, drinking significantly less water, or, on the flip side, drinking much more than usual.
- Signs in your dog’s movements like low posture, hunching, or moving in a stiff or rigid way. You might notice them walking awkwardly or slowly when transitioning from rest to activity, struggling with stairs or climbing onto furniture, or refusing to shift out of a particular position.
- Rest can also be significantly affected. Dogs in pain may sleep more than usual as their body tries to heal or avoid movement that could cause discomfort. On the other hand, your dog might become restless, unable to settle into a comfortable position.
- If you’re doing a gentle inspection by touch, watch for signs like lip licking, flinching, turning their head away, moving to avoid contact, or even vocal reactions. You might also notice swelling, redness, or warmth in a specific area.
- Their attitude may also shift in noticeable ways. You might see decreased social interactions, signs of aggression when they try to avoid contact, or a lack of enthusiasm for things they usually enjoy, like greeting you at the door, going for walks, or playing. On the other hand, a dog that’s typically independent might start seeking extra attention, sticking close to you, or even becoming unusually clingy.
How Can You Help?
While it’s important to monitor your pet closely, your veterinarian will likely guide you step by step through the treatment process. They’ll inform you about potential side effects, explain what changes in behavior or condition might mean, and help you determine whether something is just an “off day” or a sign of a more serious issue.
One of the best things you can do is keep a detailed journal about your dog’s condition. Track how they’re doing over time after the diagnosis—note any changes in behavior, whether they seem better or worse after exercise, or if they have more energy in the mornings versus evenings. Being thorough will not only help you stay aligned with their needs but also provide your vet with a clearer picture of the situation.
If your dog is used to high-energy activities, it’s important to transition to calmer, low-stress routines. This helps prevent unnecessary strain on their body while they’re managing the illness.
Palliative care, which focuses on managing pain and discomfort while maintaining a good quality of life, may involve a variety of medications and different approaches. It might take some time to find the right combination that works best for your dog, intending to keep them as comfortable and happy as possible throughout their journey with hemangiosarcoma.
Final Thoughts
While observation is crucial, it’s important to remember that for your dog, an off day is just that—a minor blip. As a devoted owner, you naturally want your dog to feel their best at all times. Coping with hemangiosarcoma and its uncertainties can lead to constant second-guessing and overthinking every decision. However, at the end of the day, trust that you’re doing everything you can and stepping up to provide the care and love your dog needs.
