Melanomas around the muzzle and nostrils

[SpruceRI]

My shetland has got melanomas on his lips/muzzle and which are now growing up through his palate and restricting his breathing.

My vet says that apart from cutting his nostrils up his face, there is nothing really to be done to halt their growth and assist with the breathing

Has anyone else's horse/pony got this? And have you had any success with similar operation?

thanks

 

[Happy Horse]

My horse had melanomas but never operated on. I believe they try and avoid operating on them as it can cause them to spread.

 

[SpruceRI]

Yes, that's what the vet said. As far as trying to remove them a definate no no. But as far as his breathing, they said they could open up his nostrils further up his face, but that it would look very unsightly.

They said that he may have a few more years where he's active and then a couple of years where all he can do is plod about, but he's got very much worse very quickly and now sounds like a train even after a trot about.

I'm so sad. He's only 16 and I've I've had him since he was a yearling.

Was wondering about a tracheotomy?? Is that what racehorses have when they are roarers??

 

[filly190]

I would suspect he may have them elsewhere perhaps internally, would if be worth getting a second opinion it seems rather drastic action as this stage.

I had experience of a friends horse that developed them all over, I think when the quality of life is affected and nothing can be done then a decision has to be made.

In your case, there is a solution, perhaps with a little research alternatives can be found for this little chap.

 

[SpruceRI]

Thanks, will do