Canine Cancer awareness
November has been Canine Cancer Awareness Month. Yes, dogs suffer from cancer…all forms of cancer. As with humans, the earlier it is detected, the better chance your dog has of recovery. Have those strange bumps, lumps and markings checked out by a vet! Support the search for a cure for canine cancer.
Need a reason…here is a friend of mine, a Rhodesian Ridgeback named Shiraz. Her owner noticed a lump over her eye and had it checked out. Unfortunately it was cancerous and luckily they had spotted it soon enough to start treating right away. With the help of Holistic Vet, Dr. Tracy Lord, they were able to help Shiraz become a survivor!
Richmond, Virginia is home to Fetch a Cure a 501c3 non-profit organization. Remember last years great Pups on Parade fundraising event? Local artists decorated dog sculptures and you could find them all over the area. They are doing it again this year!
Need another good reason to support research for a cure? According to the National Canine Cancer Foundation : “Leading researchers agree finding a cure for cancer in dogs, is closer than in humans. And once we have cures for cancer in dogs, it gets us closer to finding it in humans. ”
Last year at K9 Basics in NJ, Leinie recieved a speeding ticket from Chase Away K9 Cancer.
http://www.pet-screen.com has provided a list of things to look for and reasons to talk to your vet about possible canine cancer in your dog:
There are 10 classic signs to look out for:
1. Abnormal swellings or lumps that persist or continue to grow
2. Sores that do not heal
3. Loss of appetite
4. Weight loss
5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
6. Difficulty eating or swallowing
7. Offensive odour
8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
9. Persistent lameness or stiffness
10. Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
If you spot any of these signs in your dog, you should report them to your vet as soon as possible. These symptoms often develop slowly, so it is best to get to know your dog’s habits well. It is also important to bear in mind that these symptoms can also be bought on by other diseases, so don’t immediately expect the worst.
Follow Me Dog Training LLC is not just about training your dog not to jump on people or pull you down the street. We believe in looking at the whole dog to help make them a better, happier and healthier part of the family. Regular vet checks, healthy eating, exercise, being able to have a calm dog while you feel them for lumps and for grooming and dog knowledge are all important parts of owning a dog. If we can help you keep your dog (healthy or not) for one more day through training and education we will!
Follow Me Dog Training LLC offers FREE evaluations with you and your dog. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
