The 3 Most Common Types of Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs

No pet parent wants to hear a cancer diagnosis of a beloved pet. If you’re reading this article as a result of a diagnosis, or you suspect your dog has hemangiosarcoma, I know this is a hard and challenging time for you!

There are many questions you probably have about this type of cancer, such as what causes hemangiosarcoma in dogs, what the symptoms are, and how long a dog can live with hemangiosarcoma.

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In this article, we are going to look at the answer to all those questions, as well as risk factors and treatment options available.

Here at Zumalka, we are a group of pet lovers just like you! With thousands of satisfied pet parents and healthy pets, we are dedicated to putting our years of experience in the industry to help you deal with your pet’s health concerns.

I hope this article provides all the information you need to handle your dog’s cancer diagnosis.

If you still have questions concerning cancers affecting dogs, why not look at our complete guide to dog cancer to find out more.

What is Hemangiosarcoma?

Hemangiosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects cells in the lining of the blood vessels. Some forms can be very aggressive, so early diagnosis and treatment are key!

There are 3 types of hemangiosarcomas that affect dogs: dermal (affecting the skin), subcutaneous (affecting the layer underneath the skin), and visceral (affecting internal organs).

Between 33-66% of hemangiosarcomas that start in skin cells metastasize (spread) to internal organs. Visceral hemangiosarcomas can happen anywhere in the body, but the organs most commonly affected are the liver, spleen, and heart. Sadly, these types of tumors are the most dangerous, and also the most common hemangiosarcoma in dogs. 

What Causes Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs?

Scientists have identified several risk factors for hemangiosarcoma in dogs. Sun exposure has been linked to certain types of hemangiosarcomas, with pets living in areas with lots of sun, and dogs that have light and thin hair and skin being affected more often.

While middle-aged and older dogs are more frequently diagnosed with this cancer, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Labradors tend to get hemangiosarcomas more often.

Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs: Symptoms

For dermal hemangiosarcomas, you might notice a red bump on the skin that could bleed. Subcutaneous hemangiosarcomas are usually a lump you can feel under the skin that might be hard or soft.

In the early stages, these tumors are not generally painful, which is good news for your pet, but it can make them harder to diagnose!

If the hemangiosarcoma is affecting internal organs, your pup may experience weight loss, decreased energy, and weakness. Another sign you can look for in your pet is pale or white gums. 

If you notice these symptoms in your dog, make sure to get him checked out right away! They might also be signs of other illnesses, and the quicker you have a diagnosis and start treatment, the better the outlook for your furry friend. 

How Long Can a Dog Live With Hemangiosarcoma?

Unfortunately, it is very common for this type of cancer to spread to other areas, and dogs diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma generally live for 2 months - 1 year, depending on their specific tumors, and treatment options.

Hemangiosarcomas that affect the skin have the best outlook, with an average life expectancy of 6-12 months, but hemangiosarcomas affecting internal organs of the heart have an average life expectancy of only 1-6 months. 

Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs: Treatment

Your vet might recommend surgery and/or chemotherapy as treatment, depending on the type, location, and severity of your pup’s tumor. Even when surgery is recommended, further treatment is helpful to reduce the spread and reoccurrence of the cancer.

Deciding on treatment options for a loved companion is never easy, and can be even harder if symptoms are progressive, and treatment needs to start quickly. There is so much information to consider!

No matter what treatment you choose to pursue for your pup, we here at Zumalka want the best for your pet, just like you do. We put our 20+ years of experience and expertise to design an all-natural product specifically made for pet who fight cancer!

PIPTOPET can be used to not only during your dog’s cancer, but also as before future occurrences too!

This product helps boost your pet’s immune system and has anti-tumor properties. A strong immune system can be a great help for your dog who's fighting cancer cells.

You can have peace of mind knowing that Piptopet can be used on its own for short and long term use, and in addition with other treatment options, such as chemotherapy.

If you need any help to make your decision on treatments, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you in any way we can!

Did this article give you the information you needed? Do you have a pet suffering from hemangiosarcoma? Leave a comment and let us know, and don’t forget to share this article on social media to share the information with your friends!

About the author

Denise Lessard

HOMEOPATH, NATUROPATH, REFLEXOLOGIST, TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE THERAPIST

Denyse Lessard is deemed as the “mother” of Zumalka, which was established more than ten years ago to provide easily accessible natural products for pet wellness worldwide.

Besides being a trained alternative medicine therapist, Denyse also has expertise in homeopathy, naturopathy and iridology, reflexology, as well as Chinese medicine. She is a long-standing member of the Professional Union of Homeopaths of Quebec, as well as the Association of Naturopaths and Naturotherapists of Quebec.

Denyse’s philosophy as regards pet wellness is not just about only dealing with disease and illness when they get in the picture, but keeping animals in ideal health each and every day.

Find out more about Denyse when you click HERE.