Signs and Symptoms of Cancer in Dogs
Golden Retrievers make great family pets, but they also have their share of health problems. The good news is that most cases of Golden Retriever cancer are usually not fatal. However, because of their love and affectionate nature, they can easily be affected by certain health problems. They must be properly taken care of, or else they could face a life-threatening illness. Here’s a look at some of the more common diseases faced by golden retrievers.
As with most other health conditions, the golden retriever will develop a variety of kinds of cancer, but generally, the most common ones include cancers of the bone, liver, and rectum. Other less common forms include eye and kidney cancers. Some breeds, such as the Akita, suffer less from bone cancer than others because their thicker bones make them less susceptible to breakage.
One of the signs that your dog might be suffering from cancer is appetite loss.
This can be coupled with vomiting, diarrhea, or blood in the stool. Another sign that your dog might be cancerous is if cancer cells begin to grow around a bone in the body. This usually happens in the bone marrow but can also occur in the kidneys or liver.
Cancer cells sometimes grow in the adrenal glands. This is a very rare sign but can occur in one in five dogs over ten years old. One more sign of cancer is the production of abnormal white blood cells. These cells attack healthy blood cells. These cells appear similar to those that are made in humans. If your Golden Retriever develops these signs, it’s important to get him checked out immediately.
If you have any worries about your Golden Retriever, it’s a good idea to take him to the vet for a checkup. A professional can give you a definitive answer whether or not your dog has cancer. A veterinarian will likely do a spinal tap, x-rays, and an MRI. Once these tests are complete, a proper diagnosis can be reached. After this is determined, your vet can recommend treatment options.
Treatment options depend on the diagnosis of cancer cells.
Chemotherapy is a common treatment option, as it’s also the best way to treat most kinds of cancer. Your vet may want to start your dog on a particular drug or give him another medication to follow after he’s been given chemotherapy. You’ll likely also be told to keep your Golden Retriever away from certain foods and products, perhaps for months or even years. Drinking plenty of water and keeping your dog’s weight at a proper level is also helpful.
The cancer is very treatable when caught early. However, because dogs live so long, you still have to be concerned about symptoms and signs of cancer in dogs. If you notice any changes in your Golden Retriever’s behavior, such as a decrease in activity, an increase in appetite, or drooling, speak to your vet immediately. Regular and careful exams by your vet are also important to catch any potential problems early. Early detection of cancer in Golden Retrievers ensures that more people can seek proper treatment early and that more dogs will survive when diagnosed with cancer.
Cancer of any kind is a frightening thing, but with proper early detection, your Golden Retriever can be a happy, healthy dog again.
If your vet suspects cancer, it’s important to get him checked out immediately. Don’t wait for the signs and symptoms to show themselves. Cancer in dogs doesn’t always show up right away. Early detection allows more options for treatment and a better chance of full recovery.
Leave a Reply