Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer originating from the blood vessel cells. Because the cancer is located in blood vessel cells and blood vessel cells are located throughout your dog’s body, the cancer can attack almost any part of your dog. Hemangiosarcoma is classified according to the area in which the tumor first forms: dermal hemangiosarcoma (skin), hypodermal hemangiosarcoma (under the skin), and visceral hemangiosarcoma (spleen or heart).

Certain breeds, such as German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, seem to be at greater risk for developing this cancer.

Since the visceral type of hemangiosarcoma impacts internal organs, it can go unnoticed until the condition becomes severe. At this point, possible symptoms include abdominal swelling, bleeding (often from the nose), lethargy and pale gums. A dermal hemangiosarcoma will appear as a raised, dark sore on your dog's skin. Dermal hemangiosarcomas often form on the abdomen. A hypodermal hemangiosarcoma will appear as a hard or soft, often ulcerated, growth.

It is not definitively known how or why hemangiosarcoma develops. However, a genetic link is a suspected.

A full examination including x-rays, blood work and a biopsy is required to make a diagnosis.

Treatment depends upon the location of the tumor and the extent to which the tumor has spread. Generally, if possible, the tumor will be removed. Chemotherapy is also used to treat hemangiosarcoma.

If the tumor has spread or if internal organs are impacted, prognosis is generally poor. In addition, many dogs with hemangiosarcoma develop another condition called disseminated intravascular coagulation in which blood clots inappropriately in the vessels. The inappropriate clotting causes platelet deficiencies, increased clotting time, and a decrease in fibrin which is the substance that helps the body cover wounds and stop bleeding.

It is not known how to prevent this cancer. However, it is best not to acquire a dog who has a rich family history of this cancer.

No, you cannot get hemangiosarcoma from your dog.