Dogs of all ages are prone to developing cancer, but the elderly are especially in danger. Cancer is the most significant root cause of death in pets older than middle age, affecting one in four canines at some point throughout their lives. Some canine cancers are more common than others, just as in humans. Several dogs diagnosed with cancer can be saved by modern medical practices.
Prevalent Types of Cancer in Dogs
When cells in the body multiply without control, it is called cancer. Usually, cell division follows strict rules. A tumor can develop when a single cell develops a cascade of anomalies that leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation. It’s vital to look out for irregularities in your dog, such as a lump or bump, an injury that won’t heal, puffy or swollen lymph nodes, lameness or inflammation in the bone, or unusual bleeding.
Early on, or even frequently, there may be few cautioning indications. If you spot any of these signs or your dog “just isn’t fairly right,” don’t wait to talk with a credible vet. Not all dog cancers are included below, but some of the most frequent ones are.
Melanoma
Like mast cell tumors, melanoma tumors can develop on dogs’ skin. Several melanoma tumors are nonmalignant and straightforward to cure; however, malignant melanoma is much more severe. Unfortunately, malignant melanoma in dogs can quickly metastasize or spread to other body parts. These tumors frequently have black pigmentation, yet they can also be colorless.
Dogs with melanoma commonly have it on their feet or in the area surrounding their lips. Suppose you saw a dark red bump on your dog’s skin. If so, you must get your dog to an animal hospital that offers pet oncology services instantly so they can begin treating it and stop cancer from scattering.
Liver Cancer
Sometimes there are no outwardly obvious clinical indications of liver cancer in dogs, making it a particularly deadly disease. This malignancy can be brought on by numerous malignant tumors, the most typical of which is hepatocellular carcinoma. Generally, this type of tumor remains in the liver and does not spread.
Although older dogs are most likely to get liver cancer, it can affect dogs of any breed at any age. As a result of their progressive decline in health, elderly dogs call for extra care and attention. Furthermore, regular visits to a geriatric veterinarian are the most excellent method to guarantee their continued health and safety from possibly deadly conditions. If you want to provide your pet with geriatric care, you can visit this page.
Osteosarcoma
There are various types of canine bone cancer, but osteosarcoma is the most constant. After adulthood, large-breed dogs, including poodles, are at high threat of developing bone tumors. This malignancy has the potential to spread swiftly and cause extensive illness. There are several possible unfavorable results, but the most alarming is an abrupt onset of lameness.
If this occurs, take your dog to a vet diagnostic laboratory from a vet center like Montecito Veterinary Center for an X-ray or MRI.
The Takeaway
Watch for any unusual behavior or changes in your dog’s look. Some changes in the body that might suggest cancer develop progressively and are not always evident in the beginning. A positive outcome is far more likely when it is discovered early. Checking for cancer at regular health visits with a vet is a must. However, you might be more proactive about your dog’s health by often checking for warning signals. When doubtful, see a veterinarian.
