Cancer

What is cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which cells divide uncontrollably and damage the surrounding tissue. There are many different types of cancer, which differ in their cause, progression and prognosis. Some cancers are benign, meaning they grow slowly and remain confined to one area. Others are malignant, meaning they grow quickly and spread to other organs.

How do you recognize cancer in dogs?

The symptoms of cancer in dogs can vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. Some common signs are:

• Lumps or swelling under the skin or in the mouth
• Weight loss or loss of appetite
• Lameness or weakness
• Coughing or shortness of breath
• Blood in the urine or stool
• Behavioral changes or pain

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. The vet may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order further tests such as blood tests, x-rays or biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.

How to treat cancer in dogs?

The treatment of cancer in dogs depends on the type, stage and health of the dog. The most common treatment methods are

• Surgery: this involves surgically removing the tumor, if possible with a safe distance to healthy tissue. This is often the first choice for benign or localized tumours.
• Chemotherapy: This involves administering drugs that inhibit cell division and thus slow down or stop the growth of the tumor. This is often the first choice for malignant or metastatic tumors.
• Radiotherapy: High-energy radiation is directed at the tumor to destroy or shrink it. This is often a supplement to surgery or chemotherapy for tumors that are difficult to access or residual tumors.
• Immunotherapy: This involves administering drugs that stimulate the dog's immune system to fight the tumor. This is a relatively new and promising treatment method for some types of cancer.

The treatment of cancer in dogs can cause side effects such as nausea, hair loss or infections. The vet will discuss the pros and cons of each treatment option with you and create a personalized treatment plan for your dog.

How can cancer in dogs be prevented?

The exact cause of cancer in dogs is often unknown, but there are some factors that can increase the risk. These include:

• Genetics: some dog breeds are more prone to certain types of cancer than others. For example, Golden Retrievers have a high risk for lymphoma, Boxers for mast cell tumors and Bernese Mountain Dogs for bone cancer.
• Age: The risk of cancer increases with the age of the dog. Most dogs develop cancer at the age of 10 years or older.
• Environment: Some environmental factors such as sunlight, pollutants or chemicals can increase the risk of cancer. For example, dogs with light-colored coats can get skin cancer if they are exposed to too much sun.
• Diet: A balanced diet with high-quality food and fresh water can strengthen the dog's immune system and reduce the risk of cancer. Conversely, an unhealthy diet with too much sugar, fat or artificial additives can increase the risk of cancer.
• Neutering: Spaying or neutering a dog can reduce the risk of certain cancers such as breast cancer or prostate cancer. The optimal time for neutering depends on the breed and sex of the dog and should be discussed with your vet.

Preventing cancer in dogs is not always possible, but there are things you can do to promote your dog's health and well-being. These include:

• Regular visits to the vet: You should have your dog examined by the vet at least once a year to detect and treat any potential diseases early. If your dog is older or more prone to cancer, you should have them checked more often.
• Vaccinations and parasite control: You should have your dog vaccinated against the most common diseases and have him regularly checked and treated for parasites such as fleas, ticks or worms. These can not only be unpleasant for your dog, but can also weaken its immune system or cause infections.
• Good hygiene: You should brush, bathe and brush your dog's teeth regularly to keep his coat, skin and mouth clean and healthy. This can prevent or reduce skin problems, dental problems or oral cancer.
• Sufficient exercise: You should walk and play with your dog daily to keep him fit and happy. This can prevent or reduce obesity, joint problems or stress, all of which can increase the risk of cancer.
• Love and attention: You should give your dog lots of love and attention to improve their quality of life. This can help him feel safe and secure and strengthen his bond with you.