Cancer is a "multifactorial" disease, meaning it has no single known cause. However, we do know that both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of cancer in dogs.
Finding out a loved one has cancer can be very scary and confusing. When your loved one is your dog, it's important to remember that different veterinarians may have different opinions on the best way to treat the disease. It's always a good idea to seek a second opinion (perhaps from a veterinary oncologist) and review your options carefully.
Cancer is a disease in which cells grow uncontrollably, invade surrounding tissue, and possibly spread to other parts of the body. Like humans, dogs can develop various cancers. The disease can be localized (confined to one area, such as a tumor) or systemic (spread throughout the body).
causes of cancer
Cancer is a "multifactorial" disease, meaning it has no single known cause. However, we do know that both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of cancer in dogs.
cancer symptoms
Cancer symptoms in dogs may include:
- Lumps (not always malignant, but should always be checked by a veterinarian)
- swelling
- persistent sores
- Abnormal discharge from any part of the body
- Bad breath
- Listlessness/drowsiness
- Rapid, often unexplained weight loss
- sudden limp
- Black, tarry stool (symptom of ulcer, possibly caused by mast cell tumor)
- Decreased or loss of appetite
- Trouble breathing, urinating, or having a bowel movement
Diagnosing Cancer in Dogs
- If there is a mass , the first step is usually a needle biopsy, which removes a very small sample of tissue for microscopic examination of cells. Alternatively, surgery may be performed to remove all or part of the mass so a pathologist can diagnose it.
- Radiographs (X-rays), ultrasounds, blood evaluations, and other diagnostic tests may also help determine whether cancer is present or has spread.
Dogs more likely to get cancer
- Although cancer can be diagnosed in dogs of all ages and breeds, it is more common in older dogs.
- Certain breeds are predisposed to specific cancers. Boxers, Boston terriers and golden retrievers are the breeds most commonly affected by mast cell tumors or lymphoma, while large breeds such as Great Danes and St. Bernards are more likely to develop bone cancer than smaller breeds.
It's important to become familiar with the diseases your dog may have.
cancer prevention
- Making changes when your dog is young can greatly reduce their chances of developing certain types of cancer.
- Spaying your dog before he or she first comes into heat almost completely prevents breast cancer, and neutered male dogs have zero chance of developing testicular cancer.
cancer treatment
- Treatment options vary and depend on the type and stage of cancer.
- Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy or a combination of therapies . The success of treatment depends on the type and extent of the cancer and how aggressive the treatment is. Of course, early detection is best.
- Some dog owners choose not to treat their cancer, in which case palliative hospice care, including pain relief, should be considered. No matter what you do after your pet is diagnosed with cancer, it's important to consider his quality of life when making future decisions.
- Some cancers are curable and some are not. Please note that if your dog's cancer is incurable, there are still many things you can do to make your pet feel better. Please feel free to discuss your options with your veterinarian. Remember, good nutrition and care can greatly improve your dog's quality of life.
Know when to consult your veterinarian
If your dog develops any of the clinical signs mentioned in the above list, please contact your veterinarian immediately. If your dog is diagnosed with cancer, you may wish to consult a veterinary oncologist, who is often employed in specialty veterinary clinics and teaching hospitals.