Cancer is the leading killer of dogs. Pet owners are understandably worried about such a serious ailment afflicting their dog. While there is no surefire way to prevent cancer, dog owners can learn about the early signs and, hopefully, catch the cancer before it spreads to lethal proportions.
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Prevalence
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One in three dogs gets cancer, and the rate is much higher among older dogs because the risk increases with age. Half of the affected dogs die from the disease. Cancer is one of the leading killers of humans, and dogs get cancer at a similar rate. The National Canine Cancer Foundation raises money to help find a cure for canine cancer.
Types of Canine Cancer
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Just as in humans, many different types of cancer can afflict dogs. Skin cancer is common, though such tumors are often benign. Mouth cancer is also very common. Female dogs can contract breast cancer and male dogs can get testicular cancer, though spayed pets have a reduced risk of getting these cancers.
Lymphoma is quite common in dogs, and bone cancer is especially common in large dog breeds. Other types of cancer can appear in dogs but are not as prevalent.
Symptoms
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It is best to catch the cancer as early as possible, before it has a chance to spread. Therefore, pet owners should learn the early signs of trouble. If a dog has an abnormal swollen area that does not get smaller, it could be a sign of a cancerous tumor.
Dogs with cancer also may lose their appetite and lose weight. They may have difficulty eating or swallowing. They may be less energetic and seem to lack motivation to move. Dogs with certain types of cancer may have difficulty breathing or urinating. All of these symptoms should be reported to a veterinarian.
Radiation and Chemotherapy
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Typically, vets use radiation treatment and chemotherapy as a last resort to treat canine cancer. Many owners of older dogs opt to let their dogs live out the rest of their lives in peace without subjecting them to such invasive treatments. However, these treatments--often in conjunction with surgery--are the most effective means of eradicating canine cancer. Therefore, pet owners who have sufficient financial means often choose to give their dogs radiation and chemo in order to give them the best chance of survival. Dogs need to be anesthetized before each round of radiation in order to keep them still during the procedure.
Care
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Whether or not a dog owner opts for radiation therapy, it is important to keep the dog as comfortable as possible through a bout of cancer. Dr. Kathy Mitchener, a veterinary oncologist at Pet Education, has three commandments when caring for a cancer-stricken dog: Do not let the dog hurt, vomit or starve.
If the dog is in pain, it is best to see a vet for pain management medication. Vomiting is uncommon in dogs with cancer, but if a dog does begin to vomit, he should be seen by a vet immediately because he is likely having a poor reaction to his treatment. If a dog stops eating, a stomach tube may need to be inserted to ensure he gets the proper nutrients.
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