Chemotherapy is not the first treatment given for many kinds of cancers in dogs. According to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," chemotherapy is only moderately successful in most cancers in dogs and is generally used in combination with other therapies like radiation to stop the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. Side effects are something to consider when choosing cancer treatment for your dog.
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Nausea and Vomiting
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These are the most common side effects of chemotherapy. Dogs' and people's digestive systems react in a similar fashion to chemotherapy treatments.
Lowered Immunity
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According to the National Canine Cancer Foundation, it's common for a dog to have a much lower white blood cell count during chemotherapy (see Resources). This means the dog will have a reduced ability to fight off any diseases or parasites.
Diarrhea
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This is also a normal side effect, but not if the diarrhea lasts for more than 48 hours. Call a vet at once if it does.
Cystitis
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This is when the dog has blood in the urine, or strains to urinate and nothing comes out. Call the vet at once and ask if you need to bring a urine sample.
Misconceptions
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Although people taking chemotherapy will get thinning hair or go entirely bald, a dog's coat generally remains the same throughout chemotherapy.
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