A Guide To The Signs, Symptoms And Treatment Of Lung Cancer In Dogs
Signs:
It is not an everyday occurrence when dogs get cancer, but it is possible. Here are a few signs to look for. Your dog may develop a chronic cough. It may be dry or there may be a little fluid or mucous. The dog may have a puny limp or demonstrate signs of lameness. Some dogs don’t show any signs at all. It is suggested that you get your dogs checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis.
Symptoms:
The symptoms and signs are very similar. Some of the symptoms maybe difficulty breathing, coughing with phlegm or blood, lethargy, weight loss, and a loss of appetite.
Causes:
Some dogs are exposed to second hand smoke and asbestos. These carcinogens can be inhaled into the lungs of dogs. The most susceptible dogs are the short to medium nosed dogs. The reason for that is the nasal passage is not effective at accumulating the inhaled smoke or asbestos carcinogen, so more of the product gets in the dogs lungs.
Treatment:
The main treatment for this type of cancer is usually surgery to remove the tumor by an excision. After the surgery the dog must be monitored and put on oral pain medication. Limited exercise is allowed. Eating must be encouraged, and sometimes the surgery is followed up by chemotherapy or radiation.
Prognosis:
Dogs usually come through this operation fairly well. There are of course special circumstances where the life expectancy of the dog may be decreased. The prognosis mainly depends on the size of the mass and whether the cancer has spread to the lympnodes or not. The type of cancer is also a major factor.
Note:
This can be a very scary time for any family but if the cancer is caught in time it can be a very treatable situation. It is always best to have your dog examined by your veterinarian regularly. This is the best intention to catch any kind of cancer very early. Also it is best to be a persistent pet owner, if you assume something is wrong get a second opinion if your regular doctor doesn’t see anything. Please be diligent follow through and keep on the doctors and follow your instincts. I hope that all of your pets are healthy and happy. Be attentive and keep your pets healthy, spayed and neutered. Keep your dogs healthy and safe and listen to them when they are trying to reveal you that they don’t feel satisfactory.
Sources: www.caninecancer.com
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Filed under Mesothelioma Prognosis by on Apr 25th, 2011. 