Barney: Diagnosis

We received Barney's diagnosis over the weekend: his tumor biopsy shows that it is malignant. Specifically, he has what is called a grade 2 fibrosarcoma; in layman terms, he has cancer. So this means that our dear, sweet, good-natured companion of 6 years is now an oncology patient. We are very saddened by this news but are trying to not get too upset until we talk further with the doctors. We have an appointment with an oncologist at the University of Pennsylvania Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital on Tuesday morning 12/9 and will be able to discuss our next steps with the doctors then. Our vets believe they got all of the tumor out with the surgery but this type of cancer spreads easily so there is a chance it is still spreading. We will keep everyone updated. In the meantime, please keep Barney, specifically, in your prayers as he is still recovering from the surgery and has to be locked up all day long so as not to rupture the incision. We are taking him to the vet this afternoon because it has been bleeding and red since yesterday so we want to have it looked at right away. Also, please keep Barney in your prayers going forward as he battles this illness. He is such a loveable, good-natured doggie. And finally, please keep us in your prayers as we discuss our options with the vets, so that we can make sound decisions and be at peace with whatever news we get. For now, we will continue to love Barney and give him a good home. He's been such a good companion for us these past 6 years and we could not ask for a better dog.