Trichoepithelioma

Solar went onto the operating table last week to have a lump removed from the back of his neck.

The reason for the trip to the vets was, Solar was due his booster injections, but before doing so we elected for a "Titre test" this test would show his immunity levels and determine what vaccinations would be required.

Solar has had matted/tangled fur build up in parts of his coat, we had managed to rid most of them but we discovered a small lump, about the size of a pea. On a previous visit to the vets they took a sample of the fluid from within.

As Solar is very excitable he was booked in to have the lump removed, have a blood test and the removal of a facial tick.

Tick near Solar's eye

It was a huge shock to collect Solar, shaved neck far greater than expected. The scar which we thought would be a routine incision and clean out was significantly longer.

We are no strangers to caring for our dogs, but this we were not expecting. It was a case of ensuring he was quiet comfortable and cared for. Pain relief was the order of the day, without any additional medication.

The vet informed us that the reason things had changed, were the suspected cyst was larger than expected and did not behave as one would expect from a simple follicle cyst.

Tonight we received a call regarding the results of the biopsy report, it was a benign tumor classified as "Trichoepithelioma" they can appear in many places at any age. This may be the only one Solar will have in his life or he may have one again at some point in his life.

Resting at home after his operation.

Whilst the news is good that the tumor is benign, it shows the importance of grooming and handling your dog or any other pet.

Resting on the healing sofa

Opening healing nicely and fur returning

So you would think he has a had a bit of a time of it, he has had "shaving rash" and a second tick removed, this one by Sue while I kept the eyes and teeth focused. Mind you he is a wriggler.

Solar should only go out on a lead and not play with other dogs. His stitches are to be removed after 14 days, which will be an interesting challenge.

Tonight Sue collected me from work with Solar in the car, so I took him into our works office, he was very excitable and loud, think they were pleased to see us leave so that peace could return.

He has been a good patient, at the moment very little attempts to scratch the stitched area, this morning we had to put a bandana over the wound to take him out in the rain. We are hoping that not covering the wound will help speed up the healing of the tissue.

More news to follow on his condition soon..............