This is often the first procedure recommended as it is minimally invasive and allows veterinarians and veterinary oncologists to gather a glimpse of what is happening inside your dog’s body. If there is a tumor, even as small as a pea, it’s important you request a fine-needle aspirate.
This allows cancer to be caught early or can help relieve your stress if you discover it is benign. With an aspirate, a fine needle is placed into the concerning area and a small amount of fluid and tissue is extracted for microscopic evaluation. This procedure does not often require sedation and is the least expensive option.