Cancer – it’s the word that strikes fear into most people’s hearts. It’s never a nice subject to think about, but on World Cancer Day we are looking at cancer in dogs and how our canine friends are affected by the disease. The majority of people would be heartbroken to discover that their beloved dog has cancer. We are very fortunate that with the advances in veterinary research and technology, our four-legged friends are often able to be at our side longer than had been the case for previous generations. This longevity means that as dogs are living longer, cancer in dogs is growing increasingly common. The Kennel Club gives a statistic that for dogs over the age of 10 years around 50% of deaths are due to cancer. With many illnesses, the key to a successful outcome is early detection. Cancer is no exception. Based on this, here are 10 key signs of cancer to be aware of that may indicate that a visit to the vet for further investigation is warranted:
- Swellings that continue to grow
- Weight loss
- Sores that will not heal
- Lack of appetite
- Finding it hard to eat or swallow
- Bleeding or discharge from an area of the body
- Bad odour
- Not wanting to exercise
- Lame or stiff
- Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating
All of the above symptoms could be indicative of issues other than cancer. Always consult your vet for advice specific to your dog.
Can cancer in dogs be treated?
The simple answer is yes, treating cancer in dogs is possible. However, the success of the treatment will depend on how quickly the cancer is detected and its extent. Many early-detected cancers can be treated by surgery. If the cancer has advanced to the lymph nodes, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are increasingly options that are used. If your dog is diagnosed with the disease, your vet will advise you on the most appropriate treatment.
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. All of the symptoms mentioned could be indicative of issues other than cancer. Please consult a veterinarian for advice specific to your dog.
