Mary Allen
Cancer is not a disease that only affects humans, but it is one of the most common causes of death for dogs as well. But – there is good news!
In the past, many dogs with cancer were killed. But now there are new, more effective, and gentler treatment methods, which means that many dogs become symptom-free and can live a good life despite their illness. However, detecting tumors in time can be crucial for a successful treatment.
Our pets are living longer and longer, which is one reason why cancer among dogs is increasing. Approximately every other dog over the age of eight suffers from tumors, which are also the most common cause of death among dogs. However, a cancer diagnosis does not have to mean the end because today there are both effective and gentle cancer treatments for pets.
Not as Many Side Effects
– The goal is to improve the quality of life or extend a good life for the dog where we judge that it is possible, either with surgery or medical treatment, says Sandra Douglas, chief veterinarian.
– Which treatment you choose depends on several different factors and above all what type of tumor it is. Dogs generally feel well even during chemotherapy and we do not see as many side effects in animals as we do in humans.
There are several reasons why dogs get lumps and bumps in the skin, and in many cases they are harmless. In some cases, however, it may be a malignant tumor, so if you find a lump in your dog’s skin, it is best to contact a veterinarian to have it examined.
Dogs Can Be Completely Cured
– With an early diagnosis, today more and more dogs can be completely cured. By regularly feeling through the whole dog, it is easier to detect if something feels different. Of course, not all types of cancer tumors are felt on the outside, but several common tumors such as skin tumors and udder tumors can often be felt by hand, says Sandra Douglas.
Some dog breeds have a higher risk of developing cancer than others. In general, larger dogs get tumors earlier in life than smaller dog breeds.
– Even when you get a dog, it is good to know the type of diseases that more often affect their particular breed. Then you as a pet owner know if you need extra attention, says Sandra Douglas.
Here are 5 tips on how to detect lumps in your dog:
Try to make it a routine! Every time you brush the fur properly or cut the claws, you also feel through the dog to detect any lumps. Feel at least once a month, for example at the end of each month.
Determine a special order for how you feel about your dog. Start from the front of the head, also look in the mouth. Then take one side of the body at a time, do not forget the legs, paws, abdomen, and tail.
Use both hands. Feel the skin surface, roll the skin between the fingers where it goes, but also feel how it feels deep under the skin. If you find something; compare it with the other side. Do not be too careful, but use firm pressure.
A lump can be felt in different ways. It can be hard or soft, delimited or scattered, it can sit loose or be firm and can not be disturbed. It can sometimes be visible, sticky, or hairless. All variants are available!
Remember that not all tubers are dangerous! Tumors do not have to be malignant. Tubers can also occur after insect bites or other damage. Some may even be a normal anatomical detail.