Cancer and Tumors in Dogs

What is it?

In both humans and animals, the term cancer encompasses a large group of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide, grow, and reproduce uncontrollably.

Normal cells divide and die over a specified period of time. In contrast, cancerous or tumor cells lose the ability to die and divide without control. This uncontrolled cell multiplication forms a mass, which we generally refer to as tumors. Tumors are classified based on their location in the body and the type of cells they affect.

What are the symptoms?

Sometimes, the initial symptoms of tumors are nonspecific and largely depend on their location. However, this disease is generally manifested through symptoms such as whimpering, loss of appetite, weight loss, changes in behavior, vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, and the appearance of lumps, among others.

Although cancer can affect dogs of any breed and at any stage of life, it is more common in adult dogs and certain breeds such as Boxers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rottweilers, Retrievers, etc.

What are the treatments?

Clearly, it will be the veterinarian who evaluates and diagnoses the disease, determining the possible treatments to address or cure cancer. However, this choice will depend on various factors such as the type of tumor, its location, the age, and the overall health of the dog.

Here are the most common treatment options:

Surgery: Tumor removal is usually the first option. The invasiveness of the surgery will depend on the type and size of the tumor. It’s worth noting that in some cases, it may be necessary to remove part of the healthy tissue around the tumor to prevent any remaining cancer cells in the area.
Chemotherapy: This involves administering drugs orally or intravenously that directly target cancer cells, preventing or slowing their proliferation. It’s important to note that it can have side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort.
Radiation Therapy: It is used to treat localized cancer, and there are times when the dog may need to be taken to a specialized center.

How to cope with the news?

Knowing and coping with this news is always difficult, and the reaction varies among owners. However, it’s important to know that early detection of the disease can significantly increase the chances of recovery and successful cancer treatment.

Currently, there are more and more veterinary drugs offering specific treatments for dog cancer, a reality that was not the case until a few years ago when medications approved for humans were used. With these treatments, the goal is not only to extend the dog’s life but also to provide the animal with a better quality of life. In some cases, the dog can even lead a normal life.

You can also watch our video on the CyP Mascotas YouTube channel.