"Shawn Hughes" wrote in message
...
I have a 12 year old male beagle (Willow) that was diagnosed with
late-stage cancer on Thursday. The Vet said that his chest X-Ray revealed
that the cancer has spread all over his lungs, and likely to other places.
She suspects the cancer originated in his liver since it was very enlarged.
She said he has only months to live. He lost 13 lbs (44 to 31 lbs) in 2009
and has been sluggish. However, over the past week he seems to have
recovered somewhat, his appetite is better and he is more chipper. I am
getting a second opinion from another Vet tomorrow. Willow also has
Cushing's Disease and I'm hoping that this increases the chances that the
cancer diagnosis is incorrect.

1. Is this a possible mis-diagnosis?

Its always possible -- is it likely? That's a whole different question. Not
having seen the animal, or the X-Rays, I have a hard time saying how likely
this is. My feeling though, is that if there was any reasonable doubt, your
vet would have told you. I don't think Cushings should interfere with
diagnosing cancer in the lungs.

2. What can I do for him? Are there any holistic/alternative solutions
that have been found to help?

My advice to you, would be to enjoy what ever time you have left with him
for as long as you can, and to recognize when its time to say goodbye. If
you have doubts though, by all means get a second opinion.

Dale