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For every owner of a pet, getting a cancer diagnosis is upsetting. Like humans, dogs are prone to several cancers that could significantly negatively impact their health and overall well-being. Canine cancer is, therefore, considered to be very important in identifying and curing early despite the apparently overwhelming nature of the topic. To ensure you get information to care for your dog adequately, this blog seeks to educate you on the different types of canine cancer, their symptoms, and available treatments.
Cancer in dogs refers to abnormal and uncontrollable division of cells in the body. These abnormal cells may cause serious health problems by spreading all over the body or forming tumours at various points.
Cancer can affect nearly any organ or tissue within a dog's body, just as it does in humans. Early diagnosis significantly improves the prospects for effective treatment and recovery.
Confirming the presence of cancer in dogs can be complex because most of the clinical manifestations are similar to other illnesses. However, if the symptoms are identified in the initial stage, it is easier to have a better result on treatment. Some typical dog cancer symptoms include:
It was found that one of the prominent and probably unnoticed symptoms of cancer in dogs is your pet losing weight. While weight loss is the common symptom many people associate with cancer, sometimes dogs can lose weight without realising they are not eating as much; another sign of cancer could be weight loss, even if the dog seems to eat normally.
A new lump or growth is often the first indication of cancer in your dog. Not all lumps are cancerous, but any new lump or one that changes in any way should be checked by the veterinarian. Some types of cancer, such as mast cell tumours or lipomas, are easy to identify since they cause lumps in the body.
Some of the early signs of cancer in pets, often in dogs, include a loss of appetite or voracious appetite. If your pet's food consumption transforms drastically, taking the dog to a vet is advisable.
Any dog that is stiff or has problematic movement continually may likely have a bone or joint tumour. In particular, osteosarcoma also affects the bones and may lead to pain and lameness.
Vaginal, rectal or nasal bleeding, ulceration or lesions that are not healing on the body surface or gums, or discharge from any orifice (mouth, anus, etc.) may be signs of cancer, especially where the tumours are likely to develop on the internal organs. If you see anything unusual in the way of bleeding or discharge, get your pet to the vet.
It may be a sign of lung cancer or other respiratory illness if your dog coughs or has trouble breathing. Dogs diagnosed with lung cancer may ‘gasp’ or show a heightened breathing frequency.
Cancer, in particular, makes the affected dog much less active and energetic. If your dog has been less active than usual, sluggish, or has suddenly changed its behaviour, there may be a problem. The affected dogs can also show signs of discomfort or pain and will fade away from what was once attractive
A common sign of this type of malignancy is vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation going on for the long term. A veterinarian should see any signs if they persist for over two days or are associated with weight loss.
Canine cancer is one of the most common dog diseases, and there are many kinds of it which affect specific tissues of the body. Certain types of cancer develop in particular dog breeds or age categories. Below are a few of the most common types of cancer in dogs:
Lymphoma is a tumour of the lymphatic system and is a prevalent cancer in dogs. Intermittent disease can involve the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and bone marrow. It causes enlarged lymph nodes and signs of lethargy, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Biopsy or fine needle aspirate is usually used to diagnose lymphoma.
Arguably, osteosarcoma is one of the most aggressive types of bone tumours that primarily develop in the limbs of dogs with numerous breed predispositions. It commonly leads to pain and swelling around the affected limb and, most importantly, lameness of the affected limb. Common symptoms include lameness or stiffness in a limb or body part, and the patient may also have problems using one or more limbs.
Mast cell tumours are among the more frequently diagnosed skin carcinomas in dogs. They always present clinically as nodules or swellings in the skin and may be of different sizes and colors. They may be benign or malignant and can extend to other parts of the body. They are usually diagnosed by either needle aspiration or biopsy.
Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm that arises from endothelial cells and commonly involves the spleen and, less frequently, the liver and potentially the heart. This type of cancer is especially prevalent in giant breeds, including Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds. Like most cancers, hemangiosarcoma may cause internal bleeding and, therefore, present such signs as lethargy, blanched gums and could collapse.
Orchitis in dogs is most commonly diagnosed in unneutered, involuntarily male dogs. Others may experience pain, aching or swelling of the testicles or a growth in the scrotum. Male cancer is often curable when diagnosed in time, generally by castrati, on then other treatments if needed.
Breast cancer among female dogs is prevalent in unsprayed females and dogs, most especially those that are sprayed at advanced ages. Mammary tumours have different natures, benign and malignant, and early detection is a high priority. Hygiene on the body, especially the mammary gland, should be checked regularly to detect any lumps or bumps associated with the condition.
Also read: Identifying & Managing Allergies in Pets: A Guide for Owners
Whenever cancer is suspected or diagnosed, your vet will advise on treatment, depending on the type of cancer and its advancement. Cancer dogs are treatable through surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Some dogs may also need general palliative care to treat symptoms and enhance their well-being.
Localized cancers — tumours confined to one place — tend to go first to surgery as a first line of treatment. Removing the tumour through surgery can cure it when the cancer is detected early and it hasn't spread. Some mast cell tumours, mammary tumours, or testicular cancers can be treated successfully with surgery.
Cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or that is harder to remove surgically sometimes uses chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs are meant to stop or destroy cancer cells. It makes no sense for doctors to use chemotherapy when it can cause side effects like nausea and loss of appetite. However, side effects associated with these drugs are usually temporary and manageable.
Cancers that can’t be surgically removed are typically treated with radiation therapy in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy. It’s perfect for tumour places, like the lungs or brain, in challenging places. Radiation attacks cancer cells with its targeting and the cancer cells are destroyed, but radiation doesn’t take a single treatment to result in effective outcomes.
A newer treatment option is immunotherapy, which tries to bring out the dog’s immune system to fight cancer. This treatment can be used to help the body recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. It’s currently an area of ongoing research but has shown promise in certain types of cancer, particularly melanoma.
Palliative care for dogs with terminal cancer can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Palliative care concentrates on pain, comfort and emotional well-being rather than treatment of the disease. They can include medication for pain relief, appetite stimulants, and other supportive measures.
You may also like to read: A Guide to Must-Have Vaccines for Cats, Dogs, and Small Pets
Cancer in dogs is a severe condition and a sad one, but it isn’t a death sentence. Because of early detection, a good understanding of the symptoms and types of canine cancer and suitable treatment options, many dogs can live long and comfortable lives after a cancer diagnosis. If you suspect your dog may have cancer or you notice something unusual with your dog’s health, don’t put it off – seek professional veterinary care. Early intervention is critical, and with the proper care, your dog can go on to live a happy, fulfilling doggy life.
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