CANCER IN DOGS

A recent article which appeared in The Whole Dog Journal they stated that one in four dogs will get cancer. Here are some tips. Long nosed breeds are more prone to get nasal cancer. Cocker spaniels are more likely to get cancer of the ears. The risk of skin cancer is greater in light-skinned dogs especially in high-altitudes. Unspayed and un-neutered dogs have a higher risk of cancer of their reproductive organs. Large breeds are more likely to get bone cancer, and Lymphoma is the third most common form of cancer in dogs.

There are some things you can do to help. First, always give your dog a careful going over as you groom your dog each week. This way you will spot any cancer in its early stages. If you see a new growth, foul odor, fluid, limping, cough or sneezing, take your dog to the vet for a checkup. Try to be careful that your dog does not inhale irritants, such as fertilizer. Have your dog spayed or neutered young. But late is better than never. Keep your dog's ears clean and checked. For dogs with heavy drop ears, see if your dog will let you tie them up each day so that air can get in the ear. Do not keep your dog in the sun for long periods or frequently during the summer. Light skinned, short coated dogs can get sunburned. While you cannot prevent all cancer, you can reduce the risk by taking care of your dog. Some schools of thought feel that a healthy immune system is the best defense against cancer for both animals and people. This means keeping the toxins out of both you and your dog's system.