Lymphoma in Dogs With Slobbering

Excessive drooling can be a symptom of a serious illness, including a type of cancer called lymphoma. A veterinarian can make a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment.

  1. Symptoms of Lymphoma

    • According to Pet Health and Care, there are some dog breeds that slobber and drool a great deal, such as St. Bernards. However, if a dog that does not normally drool a lot suddenly begins, this can be a symptom of an upset stomach. Dogs with gastrointestinal lymphoma (a stomach tumor) may have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of appetite and weight loss.

    Diagnosis

    • A veterinarian that suspects gastrointestinal lymphoma will perform an abdominal ultrasound to look for tumors. The doctor will also take a biopsy of the affected tissue, perform blood tests and conduct a urinalysis. He may also take x-rays of the dog's chest or examine a bone marrow sample depending upon his findings.

    Treatment Options

    • The Canine Cancer Awareness website claims that 80 percent of dogs with lymphoma will go into remission if they are treated with chemotherapy. Although this does not cure the disease, it can prolong the dog's life by as long as a year.