Dog Tumors

Tumors and Dog Cancer are not synonymous. There are a variety of tumors that dogs get that are more a bother than a danger. Fatty tumors pop up on older animals. They feel like a squishy lump and very movable. They should not concern dog parents unless they become so large that they become debilitating for the dog.

Superficial Tumors

The numbers of benign tumors far exceed the number of malignant tumors. Dogs get bumps and Dog Lumps everywhere over time. While panic is not good for any situation, careful observation is necessary when you discover a bump or lump on your dog. Your veterinarian may want to perform a needle biopsy to determine if it is benign or malignant. Once the results are in treatment can be discussed with your vet.

Most veterinarians will remove testicular (Dog Testicular Cancer) or mammary tumors (Dog Mammory Cancer) whether or not they are malignant. Testicular cancers require neutering. With the superficial tumors, side effects are minimal and recovery is rapid.

Mammary tumors are generally on the surface, but they are one type that can be either benign or malignant.

Tumors that are internal

Internal tumors are different. Generally not seen until other symptoms arise, they can be malignant and metastasized from other areas of the dogs’ body.

If the tumor is in the chest cavity or abdomen, the treatment may be different. When discussing treatment with your vet, discuss complications, your dog’s general health and age as well as the quality of life after the surgery.

What to watch for

• External lumps that grow quickly should be examined quickly. Rapid growth is indicative of aggressive tumors.

• Any lumps on the extremities should be seen fairly quickly. Many invasive forms of cancer can start in these areas.

• If the tumor that is superficial feels as though it is attached to something or cannot be wiggled, it’s time to see your vet quickly.

• If the lump is in an area such as joints, anus, mouth or other active areas, they should be removed to assure your dogs comfort.

What will your vet do

Along with a complete history and thorough physical, your veterinarian will perform blood tests and urinalysis to see if there are any potential changes from a healthy area. With this they can rule out infections or other ailments that may be treatable with antibiotics. If the blood tests are not within normal limits they may proceed to a needle biopsy. In the case of an internal tumor, there may be a biopsy that requires the opening of the chest or the abdomen.

X-rays of the affected area may be done.

If a tumor such as a Dog Brain Tumor is expected, your vet may recommend and MRI or a CT scan.

What should you do

• If the symptoms your dog has exhibited include Dog Loss of Appetite and Dog Weight Loss, be sure to keep your dog well nourished with supplementary feedings if necessary.

• If your veterinarian orders Dog Pain medication post operatively, give that medication as ordered to prevent your dog from extreme discomfort. This will also prevent your dog trying to reach the area and introduce potential infection.

Whatever the diagnosis, the age of your dog is always a consideration. If you have a senior dog that has been a good friend for many years, your kindness may lead you to prevent further discomfort.

Suggested Products

Nu-Pet Vitamin & Antioxidant Wafers
Cancer Support Kit – Dogs
ES Clear – Dog Cancer Support

Additional Dog Cancer Pages

Dog Cancer | Dog Skin Cancer | Dog Bladder Cancer | Dog Pancreatic Cancer | Dog Bone Cancer | Dog Cancer Prevention | Dog Cancer Diagnosis | Dog Lymphoma Cancer | Dog Gastric Cancer | Dog Mast Cell Tumors