While none of us want to think about our pets being impacted by something as serious as cancer, statistics show that it is a very real thing to worry about for dog owners. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, cancer studies have suggested some shocking realities.
- One-quarter of dogs will develop abnormal cell growth/tumors (neoplasia) at some point in their lives.
- Nearly half of all dogs over the age of 10 will develop some form of cancer.
- Depending on a dog’s breed, the likelihood of developing cancer may be increased (the highest rates impact Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, Bichons, and Boxers)
Cancer is a complicated disease to treat in any living thing, and as such, there are a variety of different treatment options available. Treatments aim to not only reduce the progression of cancerous tumors but to kill cancerous cells and help the patient afflicted live a longer, healthier life. Because cancer treatment is often not a single standalone path, there are many different things a dog owner can do to supplement their pet’s treatment.
