Murphy the seven-year-old Labrador was, to put it politely, in slightly “generous” body condition. Hence when the dog flopped happily into his owner Josh’s arms and Josh noticed an increased roundness around Murphy’s tummy, he was initially unsure if it was a problem.

When Murphy was convinced to roll over for a better look (which took less than a second once Josh mentioned the word “treat”), Josh ascertained that there appeared to be a lump on the underside of Murphy’s tummy.

Josh immediately felt very worried, as his previous pet (a rottweiler called Doof), had developed a cancerous lump at the age of eight.

Josh considered conveniently “forgetting” that he had noticed the mass, but then decided that it was best to have the dog promptly checked out by his regular vet, so he could get more information about what the lump might be.

Two days later, a very cheery Murphy arrived at the veterinary clinic, and was greeted by his favourite vet Dr Erin. Upon being offered treats, Murphy obligingly allowed Dr Erin to perform a general health check on him, and then lay down so she could examine his lump.

The lump was located subcutaneously (beneath the skin), so Dr Erin advised a fine needle aspirate to help determine what it could be. This procedure involves a needle being poked into a lump a few times, aiming to collect some representative cells that can then be assessed under the microscope. In some cases, this can give an immediate answer as to the type of mass present.

Fortunately, Murphy’s mass was diagnosed as a lipoma; a benign, fatty mass that generally causes no issues unless it grows big enough to become a physical impediment.

Josh felt extremely relieved and was content to monitor the mass for any changes thereafter. Murphy was delighted that he got more treats. Both considered the day a success.