Canine Cancer- Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
At Perkins County Veterinary Hospital, we understand that your canine companion is not just a pet, but that he or she is a beloved, cherished family member. The mutual bond of love and loyalty between you can make a diagnosis of any form of dog cancer very difficult to hear. Our veterinarians and support staff are empathetic, compassionate and trained to focus on both the emotional and medical aspects of dog cancer.
Only a veterinarian can accurately diagnose canine cancer. This is why it is extremely important to schedule periodic wellness exams for your canine companion. During these preventive exams, your veterinarian can check your dog for signs of canine cancer. Treating canine cancer before it advances is key to successful recovery. We are here to guide you both through the diagnosis and treatment process. This includes choosing the best options for effectively, humanely and successfully dealing with canine cancer.
Common Types Of Cancer In Dogs
Unlike many other species of animals, dogs are susceptible to the same types of cancer as humans. Cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. These cells can originate in any of the body's tissues. If not found and arrested in time, cancer can expand and connect with the circulatory or lymph systems, and also can spread and infect other tissues in the body. Canine cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs 10 years of age and older. However, half of all cancer in dogs is treatable if it is arrested in its early stages.
The most common types of cancer in dogs are:
Hemangiosarcoma
Mast Cell Tumors
Lymphoma
Osteosarcoma
Brain Tumors
Bladder Cancer
Mammary Carcinoma
Malignant Histiocytosis
Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Mouth and Nose Cancer
Melanoma
Testicular
Symptoms And Signs Of Cancer In Dogs
Some signs of cancer in dogs are easy to spot and others are not. Signs of cancer in dogs may vary greatly depending upon a number of factors. However, the following list identifies some of the most common signs of cancer in dogs:
Lumps and bumps underneath a dog's skin
Abnormal odors emanating from the mouth, ears or any other part of the body
Abnormal discharge from the eyes, mouth, ears or rectum
Abdominal swelling
Non-healing wounds or sores
Sudden and irreversible weight loss
Change in appetite
Coughing or difficulty breathing
Lethargy or depression
Changes in bathroom habits
Evidence of pain
Should you witness any signs of cancer in your dog, we strongly recommend making a veterinary appointment immediately.
Tumors In Dogs
Tumors in dogs usually appear as fleshy but solid lumps of tissue underneath a dog's skin. Not all tumors will be outwardly evident. Sometimes you can see evidence of tumors and sometimes they are deep within the body of the dog. However, early detection and treatment are key to preserving your dog's health and quality of life. Therefore, it is important to periodically inspect your canine companion for any abnormal lumps and keep a semi-annual veterinary appointment schedule.
Treatment Options For Dogs With Cancer
Several factors influence cancer treatment decisions for dogs with cancer, including:
The patient's overall health status plays a major role in therapy choices for dogs with cancer. This includes evaluating the patient for his or her ability to tolerate cancer treatment. Life expectancy should be taken into consideration as well; for a slow-growing tumor in an older dog, for example, treatment drawbacks may outweigh potential benefits.
Treatments for dogs with cancer are similar to human therapies, may include:
Chemotherapy
Surgery
Radiation therapy
- Holistic or herbal therapy
Call and make an appointment today if your dog presents with any of these symptoms.
