Description: A malignant form of cancer where the tumor is fed by blood vessels. These tumors are commonly found in the heart and spleen. This rare but often fatal condition usually affects middle-age and older dogs. Hemangiosarcoma is often hard to detect at an early stage. Correct diagnosis is often made at a later stage when the disease is at an advanced stage and severe symptoms are already present. Bleeding, abdominal swelling, depression and weakness often characterize the terminal stages of this fatal disease. Dogs diagnosed with this condition may survive for a few more weeks. The manifestations are caused by severe internal bleeding and excessive accumulation of fluid around the internal organs. If detected early, the tumor can be removed surgically and the dog is subjected to chemotherapy and other symptomatic treatment.

Breeds Commonly Affected: Belgian Malinois, Belgian Sheepdog, Bullmastiff, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Saluki (Gazelle Hound)