What You Should Know: National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day
National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day is November 7th. At Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach, we like to use the opportunity to help raise awareness with dog owners about this deadly disease and the veterinary medicine advancements that have been made in treating it.
What Is Canine Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects both dogs and humans. There are 30 different kinds of lymphoma that can affect dogs, originating in their lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). These different varieties of lymphoma can cause four different types of canine lymphoma in dogs including:
- Extranodal lymphoma
- Mediastinal lymphoma
- Alimentary lymphoma
- Multicentric lymphoma
There is no one cause of canine lymphoma. Typically, it arises as a result of both genetic and environmental factors.
Signs and Symptoms of Canine Lymphoma
The symptoms of canine lymphoma can vary significantly depending on the type of lymphoma and the organ or part of the body that is affected. Some signs and symptoms can include:
- Lumps, bumps, or growths under the skin
- Appetite loss
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Unexplained weight loss
- Coughing
- Disinterest in exercise or regular activities
If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior, appearance, appetite, energy, or attitude, we encourage you to schedule a checkup right away.
The Importance of Early Detection: Cancer Screening for Dogs
About 50% of dogs over age 10 develop cancer, and it’s even more common in certain breeds that have a predisposition. There used to be no course of treatment for dogs with cancer, other than to help alleviate symptoms with palliative medicine to improve quality of life. Today, however, there are treatments for several types of cancer in dogs. Early detection, however, is key to successful treatment.
In the past, most cancer was diagnosed in dogs after symptoms appeared. At this time, however, the disease is typically fairly advanced, and this makes treatment more challenging.
A new type of genomic test is available that helps to screen pets for cancer by detecting changes and markers in a pet’s DNA that might indicate the presence of cancer. These tests can indicate that a pet needs further testing for cancer – before the disease even begins to cause symptoms. With routine screening and early diagnosis, we can begin treatment incredibly early which gives pets a much better chance at overcoming cancer before it seriously affects their health and well-being.
Canine Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment in Redondo Beach
If you have a senior dog (6 years or older), we strongly encourage you to talk with your veterinarian at Pacific Animal Hospital of Redondo Beach about canine lymphoma, other types of cancer in dogs, and the possibility of screening your pet. To learn more or schedule a checkup for your dog, we welcome you to contact our office.
