In Dogs, Early Cancer Detection is Important!
Odor DetectI know that cancer is a word that we presume affects humans far more than it does affect our pets. However, our dogs as they age are very prone to many types of cancers. From the tip of your dog's nose to the very end of its tail, your dog is vulnerable to cancer.
According to Dr. Margaret McEntree, an associate professor of oncology at the Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, it is estimated that 50 percent of all dogs over the age of 10 years will have cancer as the cause of death. And that 25 to 30 percent of all dogs will be stricken with some type of cancer during their lives.
Dogs like people are living longer due to the advances in vaccines, better nutrition and medical care. All dogs are at risk and the risk is dependent on breed, gender and genetics, along with nutrition (diet) and exposure to certain environmental conditions.
As an owner, it is our job to be on the lookout for any unusual signs that might be an early warning condition. Cancer can affect any area of a dog's body.
Some signs to look for are:
constant lameness or stiffnessunusual odor
trouble swallowing or eating
discharge or bleeding from any part of the body
weight loss or loss of appetite
sores that do not heal
These are just some common signs that may or may not indicate cancer, but they are signs to urge you to take your dog to the vet, for a more thorough check up.
Many dogs get lumps and bumps that are not signs of cancer, many of these are just benign tumors that for the most part can be ignored after they are checked out by your vet. I am not saying ignore a lump or bump, I am saying your vet should check them out and then many can be ignored.
The most prevalent types of cancers are:
Lymphoma: A malignancy that most commonly affects the peripheral lymph nodes, but can also affect lymphatic tissue throughout a dog's body. The early signs are noticeable swelling of the lymph nodes under the jaw or shoulder region. If not treated the disease will spread and eventually death will occur. Skin Cancer: Usually small growths that are often benign, but can invade other tissues and organs and spread quickly. Dogs can get skin cancer from too much exposure to the sun similar to what humans can get. There are several types of skin cancer, so it is important if your dog has any type of sores that do not heal, you call your vet at once. Mammary Gland Cancer: A disease of older non-spayed female dogs. Tumors develop under the dog's nipples and can spread eventually to the lymph nodes, the liver, lungs and other areas of the body. This is the most avoidable form of cancer that can be prevented by having your female dog spayed at an early age. Oral Cavity Cancer: Effects the upper and lower parts of the jaw along with the superficial linings of the mouth. Early signs are bleeding from the mouth, really bad breath, and pain while eating or drinking. These tumors can take the form of persistent sores as well as lumps within the mouth.Every pet owner should at least once a month groom their pet by checking over its entire body and look for any unusual formations. This only takes a few minutes and can save your dog's life and you a bundle of money in vet bills. Most cancers can be treated if found early with the exception of lymphoma.
A once a year check up is sufficient for young dogs, but dogs older than 8 years should go to see the vet at least twice a year. This check up should include complete blood work, a chemistry panel and urinalysis, along with an X-ray of the thoracic region (between the dog's neck and diaphragm.)
Taking the time to check your dog over at least once a month cannot be emphasized enough, those few minutes can be a lifesaver for your dog and your pocketbook
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