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Pierre, a 12-year-old French Poodle who serves as a therapy dog for passengers at the Dane County Regional Airport, achieved an excellent prognosis after his cancer was detected early during an annual exam and then removed through surgery. (Photo: Ian DeGraff)
A Compassionate Care guest column by Dr. Cecilia Robat, DVM, ACVIM (Oncology), Clinical Instructor of Oncology at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine
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Cecilia Robat
November is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month, and our oncology team members know all too well that cancer is a major canine health problem, affecting one out of every three dogs. Early detection is critical in fighting this disease. In fact, it was the key factor in achieving a positive outcome for Pierre, a 12-year-old French Poodle who serves as a therapy dog for passengers at the Dane County Regional Airport. We caught his cancer early during an annual exam and removed it through surgery. Now his prognosis is excellent. Look for his story on our website and in the pages of the Winter 2015-16 issue of On Call (you can subscribe online) in the coming weeks.
Given the vital importance of early detection, I have compiled for you a list of the top 10 signs of cancer in dogs. Should you notice any of these signs, don’t panic—they don’t necessarily mean your pet has cancer. But please schedule an appointment with your veterinarian so you can be sure. You can also make an appointment with the board-certified specialists of our Oncology Service by calling (800) 386-8684.
A Lump or Bump
All lumps or bumps should be examined by a veterinarian and measured and sampled to make sure they are not of concern. Their size should be monitored over time. A mass can feel benign but actually be cancer.
Changes in Urination
Increase in urination, called polyuria (PU), and abnormal thirst, called polydipsia (PD), can be signs of high calcium, which is associated with several common cancers such as lymphoma, and anal sac tumors.
Decreased urination, small/frequent urination, and straining to urinate (possibly with blood) could be signs of a bladder or prostate tumor. Recurrent urinary tract infections, especially in older dogs, should raise concerns as well.
Changes in Defecation
Straining to defecate, blood in the stool, or long-lasting diarrhea could be signs of intestinal, prostate, or anal sac cancer.
Bad Smell
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This can come from anywhere, but in particular, if the mouth is the source, it should prompt a consultation with a veterinarian. A mass in the mouth, bad breath, and loose teeth are common signs of oral cancer.
Weight Loss
It is important to monitor your dog’s weight. If pets lose weight unintentionally, this could be one of the first signs of cancer. Also keep an eye out for muscle wasting, especially in one area of the body (i.e., one leg or one side of the body).
Lethargy
If your dog seems drowsy, listless, or unenergetic, especially if it’s sudden or lasting more than a couple of days, you should consult a veterinarian. Also, look at the color of your dog’s gums: if they are pale, this could be a sign of bleeding, and your dog should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers commonly develop tumors of the spleen that can rupture and cause sudden lethargy.
Decreased Appetite
If your dog does not want to eat or can’t eat, it’s time to see a veterinarian. If your dog only wants people food or treats instead of his normal dog food it could be a warning sign as well. Cancer can make dogs feel unwell, and sometimes nauseated, or can cause pain, all of which will decrease their desire to eat.
Breathing Problems
Decreased energy for walks or normal games, panting excessively, raspy breathing, coughing, or a facial deformity should raise concern.
Discharge from Anywhere
Nasal discharge, especially if it comes from one side, is bloody, or returns after antibiotic therapy, should prompt a visit to the veterinarian for advanced diagnostics. These could be signs of a nasal tumor.
Discharge from the mouth, eyes, vulva, ears, especially if they are smelly, recur after treatment, or do not respond to treatment, should raise concern.
Pain
If pain lasts more than a few days or does not respond to pain medications, it could be due to cancer.