Skin cancer isn't something that most pet parents think about when considering their dog's health. However, skin cancer is a very real concern in our canine companions. Here are 3 skin cancers that our Ventura veterinary oncologist commonly sees in dogs.
I've found a lump on my dog's skin, what should I do?
Discovering a lump or discolored patch of skin on your dog is bound to make you worry about cancer. That said, it's important for pet parents to keep in mind that not all lumps are cancerous, and those that are cancerous are often treatable if spotted early.
If you have found something suspicious on your dog's skin, take your dog to the vet to have it examined. When it comes to your dog's health, it's always better to err on the side of caution.
What types of skin cancer can dogs get?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Skin squamous cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed form of skin cancer in dogs, and typically affects older pets. These tumors appear as raised wart-like patches or lumps that are firm to the touch, and are most often found on the dog's abdomen, lower legs, rear, and head. Exposure to the sun may be a cause of squamous cell carcinoma, however the papilloma virus has also been linked to this condition. Squamous Cell Carcinoma is most often seen in Dalmatians, Beagles, Whippets, and white Bull Terriers.
Malignant Melanoma
- Melanomas are raised bumps which are often dark-pigmented (but not always) and frequently found around the dog's nail bed, mouth and lips. While most melanomas are benign they can be malignant. Malignant melanomas are a serious threat to your dog's health and require immediate treatment. These tumors grow quickly and have a high risk of spreading to other organs. Male dogs are more at risk of melanomas than females and certain breeds such as Schnauzers and Scottish Terriers also face an increased risk of developing malignant melanoma.
Mast Cell Tumors
- Mast cell tumors are another type of cancer commonly found in dogs. This cancer occurs in the mast cells of the dog's immune system and may grow anywhere on your dog’s skin, including internal organs. Some of the most common sites for mast cell tumors are on the chest, limbs, and lower abdomen. This form of skin cancer is most commonly diagnosed in dogs between ages 8 -10 years old. Some of the breeds facing an increased risk of developing mast cell tumors include: Boxers, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Boston Terriers.
How is skin cancer diagnosed in dogs?
In order to diagnose skin cancer in dogs, your vet may perform a fine needle aspiration to take a small sample of the turmor's cells to examine, or perform a biopsy in order to take a portion of the tumor's tissue for examination. These samples will be sent to a lab to be analyzed, in order for your vet to provide you with an accurate diagnosis of your dog's condition.
Additional diagnostic testing may be recommended following your dog's initial cancer diagnosis to help determine the extent of the cancer as well as optimize treatment recommendations and more accurately predict prognosis for your pup.
What treatment is available for skin cancer in dogs?
Dogs diagnosed with skin cancers in their early stages can often be treated successfully and go on to live full active lives.
Cancer can be treated with several different therapies or treatment combinations, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies or palliative care when appropriate. When it comes to the prognosis and treatment for cancer in dogs, options will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of tumor, the tumor's location, how advanced the cancer is.
Our Ventura veterinary oncologist is dedicated to providing the best care and treatment to pets with cancer. As part of your dog's comprehensive care, our oncologist will work closely with your primary care vet and other veterinary specialists.
How can I help protect my dog from skin cancer?
Detecting the signs of skin cancer while the disease is still in the early stages is the key to good treatment outcomes for your pet. Familiarizing yourself with all your dog’s normal lumps, bumps, and rashes, during your regular grooming sessions, as well as visiting your vet for routine wellness exams can help to catch skin cancers in their early stages.
If you notice an unexplained or unusual lump or discolored patch of skin on your dog, or if you notice swelling around your dog's toes contact your vet to book a full examination for your pup.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.At Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group (VMSG), our Ventura veterinary oncologist is committed to providing care and treatment of pets with cancer. If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer contact us to book an appointment for your dog.
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