The word “cancer” causes dread and anxiety in the hearts of most dog owners across the country. Cancer strikes half of all senior dogs over the age of 10. The good news is that many dog cancers can be treated if caught early.
When cancer has spread, it is tough to treat. However, if you catch it early, it will most likely be contained to a particular location and easier to control.
Losing weight on your dog is often the first indicator that anything is amiss. Second, as your dog gets older, your veterinarian is likely to suggest urinalysis, bloodwork, and other diagnostics. These will aid in detecting changes in your dog’s organ function, which might indicate cancer.
Common Types of Dog Cancer
In general, dogs are susceptible to the same forms of cancer as humans. Although the frequency of some categories varies, the overall circumstances remain the same. Below are the most prevalent malignancies that veterinarians treat.
Canine Lymphoma
This is an immune system or white blood cell malignancy known as lymphoma. Because these cells divide swiftly, this cancer is known to spread quickly. Lymphoma in dogs is most usually observed in the peripheral lymph nodes.
Lymphoma in dogs develops swiftly, but it also responds quickly to therapy. Dog lymphoma is a satisfying disease to treat since most dogs react well to treatment and have a good quality of life. Survival periods range from 6 to 12 months, depending on several circumstances.
Chemotherapy and steroids are frequently used to treat lymphoma in dogs. Other medicines, including immunotherapy, are on the horizon, although not yet widespread. Several chemotherapy protocols allow pet owners to treat their pets according to their schedules and circumstances. Look up “Veterinary dentistry in Lebanon TN” for information about your pet’s oral health.
Canine Mast Cell Tumor
This malignancy affects immune system cells, which typically become reactive during allergic responses. During an allergic reaction, mast cells produce histamine and heparin, which cause you to become red and swollen. In dogs, mast cell tumors induce vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, stomach ulcers, low blood pressure, skin redness, and edema.
One of the most prevalent skin cancers in dogs is mast cell tumors. Based on biopsy results, mast cell tumors might range from benign to malignant. Biopsies are essential for determining how a particular mast cell tumor will behave.
Mast cell tumors in dogs can be treated in a variety of methods. Solitary tumors are often treated with surgery to eliminate them. We evaluate if additional therapy, such as chemotherapy, is required based on the biopsy acquired during surgery. Consult your veterinarian to get details on veterinary surgery.
Canine Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma)
Osteosarcoma (OSA) is a kind of bone cancer that affects dogs and is widespread in gigantic breed dogs. It is a malignancy in the bone, usually in the legs, and spreads to the lungs and, in some cases, other organs over time.
Osteosarcoma is a painful disease that often requires extensive treatment to limit the pain and cancer’s spread. This malignancy has a 9-15 month survival rate when treated with amputation and chemotherapy.
There are various treatments available to the demands of the patient and the owners. Amputation of the limb followed by chemotherapy is the most typical treatment for this illness. Immunotherapy and tiny molecule inhibitor medicines are among the newer therapies becoming accessible. Visit a dog oncologist to get more information.