Bentley will have 1 removed tomorrow

[Cami]

I am so glad to hear that the lump was a GRADE 1 (stage means something different and that tumor was probably a STAGE ZERO).
You need to realize however that ALL mast cell tumors, regardless of grade ARE cancerous (malignant) and NOT benign. They may be benign ACTING, (slow to grow, don't cause many symptoms, don't invade organs, etc) but cancer all the same.
I just don't want you to have a false sense of security.
Not trying to bust your bubble as the news you received was fantastic but don't want others to see a grade 1 and gather "benign" (not cancerous) from your post.
Are you starting any type of cancer protocol?

[Bentleyvt]

Cami - Thanks for the informative post. Now that you mention it, the vet might have said Grade 1 - but I really think she said it was benign...

Nonetheless, the tumor was removed and the vet had clear margins - so its outta him!

I haven't started any cancer protocol (assuming you just mean diet, treatment, etc). What do you recommend?

I feed him Blue Buffalo, and will continue to feed him high-quality food. I've also read omega 3 & 6 are good for dogs as well...how much do you give them?

Any other recommendations??

[Cami]

Just as with human cancer, canine cancer feeds off of sugar. A lot of dog foods are high in carbs. Carbs turn to sugar thus feeding cancer. You want to offer foods (including treats) that are grain free *if possible*, low in carbs and higher in protein. This is found to be a "cancer starving" diet.
Also it is standard protocol to treat MCT patients daily FOR LIFE with a histamine blocker like Pepcid as mast cells tend to cause issues with OR wreak havoc on tummies. This most commonly presents as an upset tummy/nausea and even episodes of vomiting. Oftentimes owners don't notice this as being related to an overabundance of circulating mast cells in the body or the tumors themselves.
2nd addition is the use of an antihistamine like Benadryl to again keep the mast cells side effects (allergy like symptoms) at bay or less bothersome.
MCT's mimic allergies and it is extremely common for MCT patients to suffer from allergies almost to the point of "Which came first, the allergies or the MCT's?"
Mast cells are found in the blood and in tissue (in humans too) and are a GOOD thing when they do their job however developing tumors means the patient is prone to producing TOO many mast cells and the above meds help to alleviate symptoms associated with having too much of a good thing.
*Some* traditional vets will not suggest their use until they see a pattern (developing more tumors) however *most* oncologists put this protocol into place with the first as it is quite common to develop more than one over the course of a lifetime, especially in Boxers.

[Murp.mm]

I'm so happy that your Bentley is back home and everyhing turned out fine. You must be so happy.