May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

            May is Pet Cancer Awareness month.  Cancer causes nearly 50 percent of all disease related deaths in pets per year and cancer is the #1 natural cause of death in older pets, according to Veterinary Oncology & Hematology Center.  The cause of cancer is to some degree unknown, like in humans, but genetics, over-vaccination and environmental/food toxins play a part. 

            Following are the early pet cancer signs as identified by The Veterinary Cancer Society:

1.      Abnormal, persistent swelling

2.      Sores that do not heal

3.      Loss of weight

4.      Loss of appetite

5.      Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

6.      Offensive odor

7.      Difficulty eating of swallowing

8.      Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina

9.      Persistent lameness or stiffness

10.  Difficulty breathing, urination or defecating

If you are seeing any of these warning signs, see your veterinarian immediately. 

Physical exams are key to catching and treating cancer early and increasing your pet’s chance of survival.  “We are looking for things that aren’t obviously noticed by the owner,” says Dr. Suzy Ahrens of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital.  Many owners overlook the importance of annual exam for young animals and bi-annual exams for senior pets.  Dog Topics.com reports over 50 percent of dogs over the age of 10 will die of cancer.  “We can palpate the abdomen, check for masses and perform rectal exams.  Anal sac tumors can be cured if found early enough.  That is certainly something an owner isn’t going to notice,” adds Ahrens.  “Lab testing can check for early renal disease, which can be slowed with a diet change.  The same thing is true for some liver disorders.  Thyroid disease is easily treated in the early stages.”  

            Annual exams for young animals and bi-annual exams for senior pets are essential in monitoring your pet’s health.  If your pet is due or you are seeing any of the above signs, make your appointment today!