Cancer is a condition you never want to be afflicted with, whether it strikes you, a family member or a beloved pet. However, cancer research is so advanced that the disease is no longer considered a death sentence. Cancer has been around longer than we care to remember except that we did not know much about it as we do now. When it comes to your dogs, it is important to know the common signs of cancer as they cannot relate to you how they are feeling.
According to caninecancer.com, cancer is described as uncontrolled cells that can form within or on the body. It can be localized or spread throughout the body, especially if not caught in its early stages. Most cancers cannot be prevented since the causes are unknown except for a breast cancer in pets, prevented through spaying your pet. Cancer in your dog can occur in the gastrointestinal tract, on the skin, on the brain, in the kidneys, bladder and bones.
Noticing the common signs of cancer in dogs depends on the type and location of the cancer itself. For skin cancer, you may notice any kind of unusual lumps and bumps that appear to be increasing in size. Additionally, there may be sores that just won’t heal, as stated by Dr. Jon on the Petplace.com.
A form of lymphoma can affect the digestive system with signs of lethargy, vomiting and a yellow tinge to the gums. Affecting the chest as well, cancer can cause coughing and difficulty breathing.
The older female dogs are susceptible to the mammary gland tumors, which can be prevented through spaying. Several abdominal cancers can affect dogs as well, such as mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma and prostate cancers. Common signs will be lethargy, weight loss, weakness, pale gums, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal enlargement. Testicular cancer is common in the male dogs which can be prevented through neutering. A sign of testicular cancer is when one of the testicles appears larger than the other.
Web MD about pets states that other common signs of cancer in your dog, aside from those mentioned above are a change in bowel or bladder habits where your dog has difficulty urinating or defecating. You may note some unexplained bleeding or a discharge from any part of the body, as well as an offensive odor. There may be difficulty eating, swallowing, loss of appetite and weight loss. Maybe your dog is experiencing persistent lameness or stiffness. Any of the common signs of cancer in dogs is dependent on the location of the disease and the body part it affects.
As a pet parent, it is important to be aware of all your dogs’ behaviors and healthy appearance. Handle your dog often, and while giving it lots of love and attention, also “examine” your dog for anything unusual. When it comes to cancer, early detection is the answer for the best prognosis.
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/canine-cancer-what-are-the-warning-signs/page1.aspx
http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/dogs-and-cancer-get-the-facts
http://www.caninecancer.com/typesofcancr.html