Cancer is among the deadliest diseases in our modern society. It is a common disease in humans, but is it the same with our beloved dogs?
So, in this post, we want to know, “Can dogs get cancer?” If so, “Is dog cancer like human cancer?”
Let us take a deeper look at the answers to these questions.
Can Dogs Get Cancer?
Sadly, the answer is yes.
Statistics show that about one in four dogs develops cancer. Out of all the dogs who have cancer, nearly half of them will die by the time they reach 10 years of age.
Some of the most common types of dog cancer include malignant lymphoma, mast cell tumors, mammary gland tumors (or better known as breast cancer), bone cancer, and soft tissue sarcomas.
Thankfully, dog cancers are curable especially when they are detected and managed in the earliest stage. The cure rate for dogs with cancer is around 60%.
Thus, it is important to be familiar with the early signs of dog cancers. These may include:
- Lumps
- Wounds that do not heal
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Abnormal bleeding
- Swelling of any part of the body
These are classic signs of dog cancers. However, sometimes, cancer develops with no obvious demarcations. So, any time when your dog seems to appear unwell, it is best to bring him to the vet for a checkup.
Is Dog Cancer the Same as Human Cancer?
There are similarities between specific dog cancer and human cancer. Cancers in both species display the same signs and symptoms.
Among the various types of cancers, perhaps it is the B-cell lymphoma that looks similar in both dogs and humans.
A study was conducted by a group of scientists from Duke University, North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. They aim to examine the molecular similarities of B-cell lymphoma. Their study was published in June 2013.
The study reveals that “pet dogs get cancer the same way humans do.” B-cell lymphoma is a common form of cancer and thus, it is a good subject for research.
The study further states that dogs and humans develop lymphoma spontaneously and it is not genetically created. Because of the striking similarities, a lot of researchers are now studying dogs to learn more about the disease and in the hope of finding a more efficient cure and management modalities.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy
Cancers are some of those diseases that seem to inevitably touch our lives. They kill not just humans, but also dogs.
A healthy lifestyle is strongly encouraged to help your dog avoid developing cancer. Feed him with balanced and nutritious food, give him a daily dose of exercise, maintain good oral care, and do routine checkups. These are just some of the best things you can do to prevent do cancers.
Some experts also advocate spaying and neutering. These surgical procedures are seen to dramatically decrease breast cancer in female dogs and testicular cancer in male dogs.
If you need to learn more about dog cancers, it would be best to speak to your vet. Do your own research as well and you should have a better knowledge of how to take care of your pooch.
