Rena collapsed, had an emergency splenectomy. Her diagnosis of HSA with mets to her liver devastated me. They gave her 1-3 month window with chemo, and 1 month +/- without, we decided to give her chemo to extend her life a bit. Meanwhile, I tried complementary treatments to enhance her immune system, and manage/lessen her symptoms. I immediately changed her diet, added herbs, supplements, quit all other nonessential treatments (such as heartworm preventatives). During the entire time, we never missed our walk. It was somewhat effective, she had some symptoms which we headed off with accupuncture and iscador, but she had eventual tumor growth. My criteria was to do whatever it takes as long as she had good quality of life, and for me that meant good days, with normal activity, exercise, good appetite with no pain or disability. And for 4 months she did until she collapsed of a major bleed late one night, and again twice more the next morning. She was bleeding internally and very weak. We set her free that day. Hemangiosarcoma is disgusting. I miss her!

For others diagnosed with HSA, get a good supply of yunnan baiyao. Don't be afraid of chinese herbs or others for that matter. Just go slowly so that if there is a reaction you will know what to stop. Chemo is useful for this cancer, as it does slow the cancer somewhat. I found the oral cancer protocol using cytoxan/doxycycline generated less symptoms, was cheaper and you can do it at home, and for my dog that was good. She stressed in the car, at the vets, etc. BTW, Rescue Remedy flower essence is good for that..... Diet is important and keeping your dog eating is sometimes a challenge. I only had a problem with that on her last day and it was an omen.