Your dog is not just your pet, it is your beloved, cherished family member and therefore it is hard to hear when your dog is diagnosed with cancer. It is estimated that 1 in 3 domestic dogs will develop cancer, which is the same incidence of cancer among humans.
It is important to know that cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs and therefore it is important that you spot it in time, so your furry friend can receive the appropriate treatment, which is key to preserving their health and quality of life.
Some symptoms are easy to spot and others are not. The following list shows the most common signs that you can spot. If you notice any of the below mentioned signs in your dog, we strongly recommend you to immediately make an appointment with your veterinary:
Unlike many other species of animals, dogs are susceptible to the same types of cancer as humans.
Hemangiosarcoma: This form of dog cancer is an incurable tumor of cells that line blood vessels, called endothelial cells. Although dogs of any age and breed are susceptible to Hemangiosarcoma, it occurs more commonly in middle aged or elderly dogs.
Mast Cell Tumors: These are immune cells that are responsible for allergies. Mast cells can be found in all tissues of the body but typically form tumors on the skin in close to 20 percent of the canine population.
Lymphoma: This form of dog cancer can affect any dog of any breed at any age. Most of the time, it appears as swollen glands (lymph nodes) that can be seen or felt under the neck, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knee.
Osteosarcoma: This form of dog cancer is the most common type of primary bone cancer in dogs, accounting for up to 85% of tumors that originate in the skeletal system.
Melanoma: This form of dog cancer most commonly occurs in canines with dark skin. Melanomas arise from pigment producing cells called melanocytes, which are responsible for coloring the skin.
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