Cancer can cause fear in the hearts of most dog owners throughout the country. Cancer strikes half of all older dogs over the age of ten. The good news is that most of these cancers in dogs can be treated if they are caught early.
When cancer has spread, it can be challenging to cure. If you detect it early enough, it will likely be contained to one specific location and easier to control.
The loss of weight in your dog is usually the first indication of something wrong. Second, as your dog age, your veterinarian is likely to suggest urinalysis blood tests and other diagnostic tests. They will help identify changes in the function of your dog’s organs that could indicate cancer.
Common Types of Dog Cancer
In general, dogs are susceptible to the same forms of cancer that humans are. While the incidence of certain types of cancers varies, the overall conditions are the same. Below are the most frequent cancers that vets treat.
Canine Lymphoma
It’s an immune system, or white blood cell malignancy, also known as lymphoma. Because these cells split rapidly, this cancer is known to overgrow. Lymphoma in dogs is most usually observed in the lymph nodes of the peripheral lymph nodes.
Lymphoma can develop in dogs quickly but also responds promptly to treatment. Lymphoma in dogs is a pleasing illness to treat because most canines respond well to treatment and enjoy a high quality of life. Survival duration can range from 6 to 12 months, contingent upon the circumstances.
Chemotherapy and steroids are frequently used to treat lymphoma dogs. Other medications, including immunotherapy, are in the works, although they aren’t widely used. Several chemotherapy protocols are in place, which allows pet owners treatment of their animals according to their schedules and needs. Consult a dog surgeon for more details.
Canine Mast Cell Tumor
This malignancy affects immune system cells, which tend to become reactive during allergic reactions. During an allergic reaction, mast cells release histamine and heparin, which cause you to be swelling and red. In dogs, mast cell tumors induce vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, stomach ulcers, low blood pressure, and the skin becoming red and swelling.
One of the more widespread skin cancers in dogs is cancer of the mast cells. Based on a biopsy, mast cell tumors can vary from benign to malignant. Biopsies are necessary to determine how a particular mast cell tumor behaves.
Mast cancers of the dog can be treated in various ways. Single tumors are usually treated through surgery to remove them. We evaluate if additional therapy such as chemotherapy is needed based on the biopsy taken in the course of surgery. Learn more info about vet oncology from a veterinary website.
Canine Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma)
Osteosarcoma (OSA) OSA is one of the types of bone cancer which affects dogs and is widespread in giant breed dogs. It’s a malignancy that occurs in the bone, mainly in the legs, and can spread to the lungs and other organs over time.
Osteosarcoma is a painful condition requiring extensive treatment to control the pain and stop cancer progression. When managed with surgery and chemotherapy, this cancer has a 9-15 month chance of survival.
There are various treatments available that meet the patient’s requirements and the owner. Amputation of the limb followed by chemotherapy may be the most commonly used treatment for this illness. Immunotherapy and small molecule inhibitors are among the newest treatments available. Visit a vet clinic like Cumberland Animal Hospital for more information.
