No dog owner would like to hear that their pet has cancer and needs treatment. However, in certain instances, it simply cannot be helped. If your dog is recently diagnosed with cancer and you are contemplating what you should do. Here, we’ll discuss the treatment options for dogs with cancer and help dog owners understand what to expect.
Different Types of Cancer in Dogs
There are various types of dog cancers, identical to humans. Your first action as a pet owner once you find out you’ve discovered that your dog has cancer is to figure out what kind it is. Dog cancers that are frequently recognized are:
- Lymphoma: A cancer that targets the lymphatic system. It is one of the most prevalent kinds of dog cancer.
- Mast cell tumors: A kind of skin cancer that may be found anywhere in the body.
- Osteosarcoma: A bone cancer that mostly affects the legs and is commonly present in larger dog breeds.
- Melanoma: A severe type of skin cancer that is susceptible to spreading to other parts of the body, like the mouth and eyes.
- Hemangiosarcoma: A cancer of blood vessels that could affect organs, such as the spleen, liver, and heart.
Various Ways to Treat Cancer in Dogs
When you know the kind of cancer that you’re suffering from, you must consider treatment options. The veterinarian or the veterinary oncologist will determine how to proceed with the treatment of your dog based on the type of cancer and its specific situation. There are three primary approaches for treating oncology problems in pet, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Surgery
Surgery could be a viable option to treat your dog’s cancer if they have only one tumor or if it is located in a tiny area. If the margins around the tumor are clear, many veterinarians will recommend this as the first stage in treating dog cancer. In certain instances, it is the only method of treatment suggested, while in others, it comes either before or after chemotherapy or radiation. Check out this link if you’re intrigued by reading more about the various surgical options available for treating dog cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can treat tumors originating from the blood cells, like leukemia, lymphoma, and other highly fatal cancers. Your veterinarian will provide you with prescription medicines that kill cancerous cells. This treatment for dogs with cancer lasts from six to twelve weeks. It is possible to administer chemotherapy orally at home or by one of the drips you can inject into your dog.
Radiation
Dogs with cancers with tumors that are too hard to treat surgically may benefit from this treatment method. When treating your dog’s cancer using radiation, a significant dose is targeted at the affected area. The effect is to reduce or eliminate cancerous cells. Treatment with radiation can be given to your dog anywhere from twice to five times per week in an Matthews animal hospital. Based on the extent of your dog’s cancer, this treatment plan can take as long as six weeks.
Costs Associated with Cancer Treatment for Dogs
Cancer treatment for dogs can be expensive, which is not surprising. Your veterinarian may recommend a treatment option costing pet owners around $10,000. A specialist visit to determine the presence of cancer costs approximately $1500. The charge for chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatment may range from $200 to $6000. It’s evident that the cost of treatments is significant. Fortunately, affordable pet insurance is a way to ease this issue.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of the breed or age, any dog could develop cancer. However, despite the emotional impact, pet owners should be observant of any changes in their pet companions that might indicate cancer. Early detection via regular veterinary check-ups significantly enhances the chances of treatment and prognosis. Pets who are diagnosed with cancer still have hope for a long and fulfilling life with their owners, provided they receive the best possible treatment.
