Unfortunately, dogs don’t have long lives and what makes it worse is that, as your pup gets older, the chances of cancer increases. November is the month of Pet Cancer awareness, so we’ve created a list of common cancer symptoms and signals that you need to keep an eye out for:
Loss of appetite
How has your pup been eating lately? Has your doggo lost weight? An easy way to check your dog’s appetite is by giving them food they usually gulp up in one bite, like treats or meats. If they’re not eating or interested, it’s likely that your dog is nauseous and has lost their appetite. If this happens, make sure you get your pup to your family vet!
Abnormal growths
A lot of dogs get odd growths and lumps, especially as they age. If your dog is young and is getting the lumps and growths, no matter how small and insignificant they may seem, you must get your pup to the vet for tests. Be sure to check up on your dog every day by looking through their fur for these lumps and bumps, so that you’re not missing anything. Also, by constantly checking for signs, the earlier you find a growth the better.
Difficulty breathing
Normally common with heart disease or lung tumours, if your dog is having difficulty breathing it could be worth a visit to the vet. If it’s a cold day and your pup is taking very deep breaths or rapid and intense breaths, there’s a chance something isn’t right. Make sure to check up on the breathing before your pup is active and panting.
Lethargy
A sure sign if something isn’t right with your pup is if they aren’t their usually bubbly self. Although laziness doesn’t necessarily mean cancer, it’s always a general health decline symptom. If your pup doesn’t react as normal when you offer them treats or urge them to go for a walk, it’s time you took the pup to the vet.
Wounds not healing
A wound that’s struggling to heal, despite antibiotics and topical treatment is also one of the signs that your pup could be ill. Although constant licking could be an issue, try putting a head cone on the pup and check up on the wound after a day or two.
Signs and symptoms of cancer in dogs are often similar to those of humans. Make sure that your pup is getting regular check-ups at the vet. Unfortunately, with some cancers, the symptoms can stay hidden until blood tests find the problem. It’s important to look out for our pups because they’re family. More importantly, you’re their family.