Sparty has Squamous cell carcinoma. Usually this is pretty slow growing and amputation takes care of it. Unfortunately for us amputating his toe did not help as he has another tumor further up in his leg. Since he just turned 13 I am not going to go with another amputation and radiation since it would only gain a short time at his age. My vet says the latest tests show that the tumor is growing faster than we hoped and will soon cause open sores. Ugh! The pain meds are strong although he is still limping and there is some evidence that either the meds or the cancer are affecting his liver. That is my latest update but I must say that although all the news is grim Sparty is eating well, very happy generally and still able to take short walks. So we carry on but maybe aren't as careful with the size of his snacks much to Sparty (AKA Pig Dog) "s great joy! Thanks everyone for your words of encouragement. I really love having the support of others that are as "nutty" about their dogs as I am.