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Tumor on senior dog with heart/kidney disease: Is surgery safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed

Hello, I have a 14 yrs old shitzu that has a skin tumor on her side. She has heart failure and kidney failure treatment. Do you suggest operating or to observe any size change before intervention.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 17th, 2018

I would observe it and see check whether it grows fast or slow. If it is not growing or growing very slowly you and your vet may decide not to remove it considering your dog has a heart condition and a kidney failure. Should it, however grow fast, you may want to ask your vet whether it is possible to remove the tumor not under general anesthesia, but under sedation and a local anesthesia. This may be an acceptable way, provided your dog is a suitable candidate. However this is something only your vet can assess and decide with you.

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