Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) recently, and quickly, took the life of our best boy Fritz (aka Guy Guy, Monkey Moo, Lil Monster) at 9 years old. Before we could learn more about the disease he was gone. In short, HSA is a highly aggressive cancer arising in the lining of the blood vessels. HSA does not show up in blood work or in routine check ups. It often does not show up until it is too late and the tumours that form as a result rupture, causing internal bleeding and organ rupture, sometimes slowly, but often before we have a chance to say goodbye.

Yes, it is as insidious as it sounds.

Preliminary research suggests that HSA is more common in certain breeds, but the unfortunate reality is that no breed or age or size of dog (or cat) seems to be immune. As humans (thankfully) do not suffer from HSA, research is limited and organizations rely on private donations to fund much needed studies and clinical trials

I have set out to hike 250 KM (or more) by December 31 to raise money for Morris Animal Foundation’s Hemangiosarcoma Initiative. I will be tracking my progress on this page.

I am walking in honour of Fritz and towards a future where no dog (and its family) has to suffer a devastating and unexpected loss from HSA. Research towards prevention and detection techniques is a much needed start because, sadly, HSA is becoming a leading cause of cancer death in dogs. I am walking with a team of others who have lost their family members to HSA. Together we walk on for them. https://fundraise.morrisanimalfoundation.org/memorials/LifeAfterHemangiosarcoma

I also invite everyone to check out the links to learn more about the HSA Initiative and HSA. Knowledge of the symptoms of an internal bleed (including but not limited to pale gums, lethargy, breathing difficulties and loss of balance) can buy an animal the time required to get to an emergency clinic for treatment.

HSA Initiative
morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/hemangiosarcoma-initiative

HSA
morrisanimalfoundation.org/hemangiosarcoma-dogs

Fritz and us thank everyone for their love and support.

ABOUT MORRIS ANIMAL FOUNDATION
Morris Animal Foundation is a nonprofit organization that funds science to advance the health of animals around the world. Since its founding in 1948, the Foundation has invested over $149 million in more than 2,940 studies that have led to significant breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatments and preventions to benefit animals worldwide. Please help me support advancing the health of animals everywhere by contributing to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your friends and family. Every dollar we raise will advance this great cause.