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Swollen glands in neck.

Species: Dog
Breed: corgi
Age: 5-8 years
7 year old corgie, swollen glands in neck, possible swelling in abdominal area near hind quarters, loose stool, poor appetite, lethargy




Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Oh, I am sorry to hear that Jack is not feeling well.

It sounds like the glands you are describing in his neck are swollen lymph nodes. There are really only two reasons why lymph nodes get swollen. One is infection and the other is cancer.

Can you feel for similar lumps on his back legs just behind his knee? I'll draw you a picture of where the popliteal lymph nodes are:

popliteal lymph node

Normally the lymph node will be very tiny (like a large pea) but if you can feel a big ball in this area then these lymph nodes are swollen as well.

If you are feeling that these lymph node are swollen then I am very concerned about the possibility of a cancer called lymphoma. Lymphoma can sometimes be treated successfully with chemotherapy, but often it is fatal.

There are some infections that can cause all the lymph nodes to be swollen but this is not common.

If just the front lymph nodes are swollen there is the possibility that this is some type of infection. But this really shouldn't cause a swelling in his abdomen.

It sounds like Jack needs to see a vet as soon as possible. The vet should be able to tell quite easily if this is likely to be cancer or infection.

I hope he is ok!

Dr. Marie.


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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.

Customer reply:

Thank you for your time and thorough and thoughtful reply. I was hoping it was just an infection... We did take Jack to our vet yesterday. It is lymphoma. She prescribed prednisone just to make him feel better until it over takes him. Much sadness in the Carter household this Christmas, thanks again.

Steve Carter


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Oh, I'm very sorry to hear that this is lymphoma. That was my fear.

In my experience dogs with lymphoma tend to do extremely well on Prednisone for a few weeks and then decline fairly rapidly.

Most of my clients do seem to know when it is time to decide for euthanasia.

I hope little Jack makes it through Christmas ok.

Dr. Marie.



Customer reply:

Thank you and God Bless! Steve


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Dr. MarieDr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.

Is an online vet visit just as good as a trip to your veterinarian? No! But, many times, asking an online veterinarian a question can help save you money. While Dr. Marie can't officially diagnose your pet or prescribe medications, she can often advise you on whether a vet visit is necessary. You can also ask Dr. Marie for a second opinion on your pet's condition.