Dog Cancer Support
Each year, over 8,000 dogs have a diagnosis of canine cancer and one in four will die from it. Some canine cancers are benign and don't require surgery, such as multilobular osteomas, which are found on the skull. Yet, many will spread to the lymph nodes or circulatory system and result in premature death. Finding the appropriate kind of dog cancer support can help dog owners make the best treatment decisions for their beloved dog.
-
History
-
Texas A&M University reports that dogs have a higher incidence of spontaneous tumors than humans, including; 35 times as much skin cancer, 4 times as many breast tumors, 8 times as much bone cancer, and twice as high an incidence of leukemia. Some cancers, like osteosarcoma, are more prevalent in certain breeds, such as Rottweilers. Owners should find a support group with other owners of the breed who can share their experiences about treating cancer in that particular breed.
Types
-
Owners of dogs with cancer can fine numerous canine cancer support groups online. Many of them are located in Yahoo! Groups, and include ones that specialize in specific cancers, such as the CanineBrainTumors group. Breed-specific groups exist that address common cancers found in the breed, including CircleofGrey for Greyhound owners. A group called Tripawds provides support to those faced with leg amputation for their dog because of a bone cancer diagnosis.
Owners can find other support groups at veterinary institutions, such as the Colorado State University Animal Cancer Center's Argus Institute, which provides free professional support and resources to people faced with critical medical decisions for their pet.
-
Benefits
-
Many people don't know that dogs can get cancer. Those who have never owned a dog affected by canine cancer are often unaware of the financial and mental devastation a canine cancer diagnosis can create in a family. Finding a dog cancer support group with people who have been through a similar situation can help owners make informed decisions about promising cancer treatments, affordable options for care, and understanding the progression and effects of the disease.
Considerations
-
Many options are available for treating canine cancer, ranging from chemotherapy to Chinese herbal medicine, and dog owners may become overwhelmed with the sheer number of potential avenues for treatment. Dr. Demian Dressler, author of "The Dog Cancer Survival Guide," advises dog owners to stay in the best mental and physical shape possible during this process, in order to have a clear head when making decisions about cancer care.
Warning
-
Many of the success stories found in dog cancer support groups are from anecdotal evidence. While it is important to know the cancer care options available, owners should always have a critical eye and never attempt to proceed with any therapies without first discussing it with their veterinarian. Owners should always consult with their dog's cancer care team before beginning any treatment.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit german shepherd dog image by Lisa Batty from Fotolia.com
