When your dog has a dog cancer diagnosis, your first thought could be, "Why didn't I know the warning signs and symptoms?" Many veterinarians will tell you the following is what you should have been looking for, and how to recognize cancer in dogs when you see it. The following are the top nine symptoms:
1. Any new lump or odd shape that stays for more than a few days. Any lump that grows or changes shape or size or appearance.
2. Blood running from the dog's nose. An excessively runny nose.
3. Difficulty urinating, bloody urine, or excessive urination. Any change in urinary habits, like going all the time or incontinence.
4. Straining to poop, and then the poop looks weird. The poop may be thin and stringy looking, or black and bloody or tarry.
5. Vomiting, diarrhea, no appetite, loss of appetite, having to coax or persuade your pet to eat.
6. Limping, change in gait, obvious pain when walking, favoring of one limb over another.
7. Odd odors, extra bad doggy breath, ears that drain and stink, extra drooling, change in the dog's "bite" by having missing teeth.
8. Change in water drinking habits, either drinking lots and lots of water, or the opposite, having no desire to drink at all. With intake comes outgo, check the constancy of your pet's urination.
9. Lethargy, lack of interest in anything around them, sleepiness all the time, no longer wants to chase squirrels or play.
If you see any of these symptoms or warning signs in your beloved pet, please take him/her to the vet for a check-up. Before your veterinarian gives a dog cancer diagnosis, he will perform blood tests and X-rays to confirm his diagnosis. After an official diagnosis, your veterinarian may refer you to an oncology veterinarian, one that specializes in cancer treatments for dogs. You may decide to get a second diagnosis for comparison. Search for treatment for your dog's cancer just as you would for yourself.
Take the time and resources to confirm your dog cancer diagnosis before you settle on a firm diagnosis or treatment plan. Ask for names of patients or clients who have been through what you are attempting. Look for a support group for you and your pet. Do not assume that your veterinarian's choice in treatment is the only way or the preferred way to handle cancer.
When you make your final treatment decision, consider your dog's age and quality of life. Although there have been many advances in cancer treatment in dogs, it is still just a life-extender and not a life-preserver. Treatment may prolong your dog's life, but it is not a guarantee that your dog will never die.
