Cancers
Unfortunately, dogs develop cancers, just like humans. A tumor is an overgrowth of
cells, and can be classified as benign (usually non-life-threatening) and malignant
(harmful). Many tumors can be discovered through a physical exam, so an annual
wellness checkup with your veterinarian is important. Lumps, growths and swellings
may be found on the skin, limbs, mouth, and reproductive organs. Internal
tumors/cancer of organs like the liver, spleen and gastrointestinal tract are often harder
for owners to detect, sometimes remaining undiscovered until it has metastasized to
another organ, or become very advanced. Although it is scary to find a lump or growth
on our dog, quite often it will be a harmless lipoma (fatty tissue) or other benign surface
tumor. A biopsy or needle aspirate will tell the results. The more evil, aggressive
cancers include osteosarcoma (bone), hemangiosarcoma (blood vessel lining), and
lymphoma (lymph nodes and lymphoid tissue), to name a few. These are often
symptom-free until late-stage.
Thankfully, many universities and specialty clinics have become more advanced in
treating malignant cancers. Typical treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation,
cryotherapy (freezing tissue), hyperthermy (heat probes), special diets, and
immunotherapy (mostly in the experimental phase, currently). There are research
studies and trials at several vet schools around the U.S. that may provide treatment or a
cure, if not for our dog, perhaps for many dogs in the future. Canine health insurance
has become more common, and may help prolong a dog's life due to defraying expenses
to the family. Hopefully, the future for cures in cancer will continue to be promising for
our furry friends.
http://vetcancersociety.org/pet-owners/clinical-trials/
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/dogs-and-cancer-get-the-facts#1
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cancer-senior-dogs-signs-symptoms-to-watch-for/
https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/my-dog-has-been-diagnosed-with-cancer-what-now
https://www.thedodo.com/dog-has-cancer-1648138464.html