Rau Animal Hospital:
2135 Jenkintown Road
Glenside, PA 19038
215-515-5542
Fax: 215-884-8851
Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 9:30pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: 8am - 3pm
 
 
 
Here at Rau Animal Hospital, it is our passion and privilege to be the guardian of your pet’s healthcare. As your trusted advisor, it is also our responsibility to keep you appraised of any potential threats to your animal’s welfare.
Please visit Prevent the Spread of Dog Flu to learn about how to protect your pets and to get the latest information about dog flu outbreaks. Our latest COVID-19 update can be found HERE.

Dog Cancer - Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment


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At Rau Animal Hospital, we understand that your canine companion is not just a pet, but that he or she is a beloved, cherished family member. The mutual bond of love and loyalty between you can make a diagnosis of any form of dog cancer very difficult to hear. Our veterinarians and support staff are empathetic, compassionate and trained to focus on both the emotional and medical aspects of dog cancer.

Only a veterinarian can accurately diagnose canine cancer. This is why it is extremely important to schedule periodic wellness exams for your canine companion. During these preventive exams, your veterinarian can check your dog for signs of canine cancer. Treating canine cancer before it advances is key to successful recovery. We are here to guide you both through the diagnosis and treatment process. This includes choosing the best options for effectively, humanely and successfully dealing with canine cancer.

Common Types Of Cancer In Dogs

Unlike many other species of animals, dogs are susceptible to the same types of cancer as humans. Cancer is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. These cells can originate in any of the body's tissues. If not found and arrested in time, cancer can expand and connect with the circulatory or lymph systems, and also can spread and infect other tissues in the body. Canine cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs 10 years of age and older. However, half of all cancer in dogs is treatable if it is arrested in its early stages.

The most common types of cancer in dogs are:

  • Hemangiosarcoma
  • Mast Cell Tumors
  • Lymphoma 
  • Osteosarcoma 
  • Brain Tumors 
  • Bladder Cancer 
  • Mammary Carcinoma 
  • Malignant Histiocytosis 
  • Squamous Cell Carcinomas 
  • Mouth and Nose Cancer 
  • Melanoma 
  • Testicular 
     

Symptoms And Signs Of Cancer In Dogs

Some signs of cancer in dogs are easy to spot and others are not. Signs of cancer in dogs may vary greatly depending upon a number of factors. However, the following list identifies some of the most common signs of cancer in dogs:

  • Lumps and bumps underneath a dog's skin
  • Abnormal odors emanating from the mouth, ears or any other part of the body
  • Abnormal discharge from the eyes, mouth, ears or rectum
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Non-healing wounds or sores
  • Sudden and irreversible weight loss
  • Change in appetite
  • Coughing or difficulty breathing
  • Lethargy or depression
  • Changes in bathroom habits
  • Evidence of pain

Should you witness any signs of cancer in your dog, we strongly recommend making a veterinary appointment immediately.

Tumors In Dogs

Tumors in dogs usually appear as fleshy but solid lumps of tissue underneath a dog's skin. Not all tumors will be outwardly evident. Sometimes you can see evidence of tumors and sometimes they are deep within the body of the dog. However, early detection and treatment are key to preserving your dog's health and quality of life. Therefore, it is important to periodically inspect your canine companion for any abnormal lumps and keep a semi-annual veterinary appointment schedule.

Treatment Options For Dogs With Cancer

Several factors influence cancer treatment decisions for dogs with cancer, including:

  • Age of the dog
  • General health of the dog
  • Tumor type
  • Biological behavior of the tumor
  • The stage of the Cancer

The patient's overall health status plays a major role in therapy choices for dogs with cancer. This includes evaluating the patient for his or her ability to tolerate cancer treatment. Life expectancy should be taken into consideration as well; for a slow-growing tumor in an older dog, for example, treatment drawbacks may outweigh potential benefits.

Treatments for dogs with cancer are similar to human therapies, may include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Holistic or herbal therapy
     

Make An Appointment Today If You Suspect Dog Cancer

If you suspect dog cancer, whether finding a bump or witnessing behavioral symptoms, please contact us immediately to schedule an appointment. Our veterinarians and support staff will provide you and your canine companion with compassionate, comprehensive dog cancer care and support services. Although dog cancer can be overwhelming, you don't have to go through it alone. We are here to help ease your dog's pain and suffering and eliminate the cancer through the best dog veterinary care available.