How to understand that a dog has cancer. Is cancer curable in dogs? Classification of skin cancers

Lung cancer in dogs - cancer, characterized by the formation of multiple, single malignant, benign tumors in the organ. The disease can be primary, in which tumors form in the lung, or secondary, which develops due to the penetration of metastases from other internal organs into the lungs. With metastasis cancer cells penetrate through the lymphohematogenous route. Primary form It is extremely rarely diagnosed in dogs in veterinary medicine. Moreover, regardless of the form, lung cancer is a potentially fatal diagnosis for our little brothers.

Development cancer promotes the rapidly progressing division of mutating cellular structures, which gradually displace and destroy healthy ones from the affected organ, which leads to disruption of its functions and systemic failures in the body. By uniting, tumor cells create separate groups– tumors or subsidiary formations (metastases), which can spread throughout the body.

Possible causes of lung cancer:

passive smoking (inhalation of tobacco smoke);
exposure to chemical reagents;
gene mutations;
the presence of benign and malignant neoplasms in internal organs;
unfavorable environmental situation in the region;
oncoviruses.

Important! Dogs that live in the city are more susceptible to developing lung cancer.

Development tumor process in the lungs is most often preceded by nodular lesions of organ tissue. Most probable cause Lung cancer in dogs are metastases that have spread from other internal organs.

Lung cancer in dogs can be malignant and benign nature. Primary tumors, as already noted, form directly in the lung tissues of the organ. They are derivatives of epithelial cells airways. In dogs, primary tumors in the lungs are detected quite rarely. The most common type is malignant carcinoma, adenocarcinoma.

Metastatic malignancies (nodes) originate in other parts of the body. So, for example, metastases to the lungs can penetrate from bone structures, the oral cavity,.

Clinical symptoms:

shortness of breath, frequent dry, debilitating cough;
fatigue quickly after short exercise or activity;
loss of appetite, refusal to feed;
weight loss, exhaustion;
muscle atrophy;
pallor, cyanosis of mucous membranes;
lethargy, depressed, depressed state, weakness;
difficult, rapid shallow breathing.

Important! Since tumors do not have nerve endings, pain symptom absent in animals. At the beginning of the development of the pathological process, symptoms are mild. Cancer progresses unnoticed.

In patients, due to the progressive proliferation of pathological tumor tissue, lung volume decreases. Animals find it difficult to breathe and experience severe shortness of breath. Violated heartbeat. The cough becomes wet. Bloody substances, foam, and pus can be seen in the sputum.

If primary tumors metastasize to other organs, functional and systemic failures of varying severity are noted.

Diagnostics

To put accurate diagnosis, the veterinarian conducts a comprehensive examination of the animals. When making a diagnosis, data are taken into account serological studies(general detailed blood count), radiography of the sternum, ultrasound of internal organs. During radiography, images are taken in two projections. This will allow you to accurately determine the location of the tumor node.

To determine the presence of metastases, computed tomography and MRI are additionally prescribed.

Medical therapy

For lung cancer, the prognosis is grave. In the metastatic form - unfavorable. Treatment of cancer in dogs is carried out comprehensively. Radiation, chemotherapy, radiotherapy are used. These techniques slow down division and inhibit the formation of cancer cells.

Important! The choice of treatment methods depends on age, general condition animals. forms, stages of cancer, localization of the oncological process.

Surgery is prescribed only for primary tumors in the organ. The affected part of the organ or the entire lung is removed. In addition to cancer-damaged tissue, some healthy tissue is removed to avoid relapses. Additionally assigned radiation therapy, chemistry.

After surgery, if the primary tumor is removed early stages, dogs can live for several more years. But you need to understand that after treatment the pet’s quality of life deteriorates significantly. The recovery period will be long. The operation is combined with additional techniques.

For metastatic tumors, surgery is not performed. Only maintenance therapy and human antitumor drugs can be prescribed.

Important! Considering the complexity and difficulty of access to tumor formations, operations for lung cancer are very expensive. In addition, it is possible that the disease may recur.

Owners of dogs diagnosed with malignant cancer lungs, must understand that the life expectancy of a pet after symptomatic treatment can range from several weeks to one year.

If the cancer has spread throughout the body, treatment will not produce any results. In such cases, veterinarians recommend euthanasia, no matter how scary it may sound.

Hearing a diagnosis of cancer from a doctor is always difficult not only for a person, but also for an animal. Pets quite often become victims of cancer. According to statistics, half of dogs over 10 years of age have malignant tumors. Dog owners face several questions: is it possible to cure the dog? And also, what measures need to be taken?

Oncology is a branch of medicine devoted to the study of tumors (of any nature). She examines etiological and pathogenetic issues, methods of diagnosis and therapy, as well as means to prevent their occurrence. Therefore, cancer treatment should be trusted only to oncologists.

Causes

Cancer in dogs can develop for many reasons, but the exact etiology has not yet been determined. But some factors still play an important role in these processes:

The body constantly synthesizes malignant cells, which the immune system fights. If there are any interruptions in its work, nothing will prevent the cells from constantly and uncontrollably dividing, and ultimately developing into a tumor.
The action of chemical and physical carcinogens, which include radiation, industrial toxic substances, some nutritional supplements and much more. The environmental situation in the area where the dog lives has a significant influence.
The viral origin of some types of cancer has also been proven. Specific types of viruses can cause lymphomas, leukemia, and genital cancer. Molds pose a great danger. They actively develop on spoiled food, release spores that circulate through the air, and are extremely difficult to destroy (they can survive even in high temperature). Studies have established that even high-quality dry food can contain 10-20% mold, and in cheap food its amount generally reaches 80%.

Clinical picture of cancer

Oncological diseases belong to the group of pathologies that are practically asymptomatic in the initial stages, and by coincidence, it is at this time that they can be treated. If the dog has already developed II-III stage, the probability of successful treatment drops sharply to 50%. Given these features, dog breeders need to pay more attention to disease prevention measures (visits to the veterinarian and certain tests).

Among the animals most susceptible to cancer than others are unsterilized dogs, which often experience malfunctions hormonal levels due to pregnancy, lactation or childbirth. Even if an animal often gives birth, or has not yet given birth, this will not have any effect on the likelihood of developing a tumor. But many veterinarians say that it is better to sterilize females whose owners do not plan to use for breeding offspring (exclusively in for preventive purposes). This will prevent the appearance of cancer in the organs of the reproductive system (a type of disease that affects dogs more often than others) by 100%.
The most common types of cancer found in dogs are:

Breast cancer - this form of the disease can be easily identified even in the initial stages of development by conducting a timely examination and palpation of the breast. By palpating the glands, the veterinarian will immediately feel the presence of hard lumps, which over time may increase in size and be more pronounced. Dog owners themselves should check their dog’s nipples from time to time so as not to miss complications of the disease.
Uterine cancer - this type of cancer is much more difficult to detect than, for example, the one described above. The uterus is an internal reproductive organ, so the development of a neoplasm in it does not cause pronounced symptoms. Basic early sign– these are atypical and frequently recurring discharge, spontaneous abortions or infertility in a female dog. As clearly as possible, a tumor of the uterus reminds itself of itself at the moment when it develops to the last stages, and the dog experiences a rapid deterioration in its general condition - constant whining due to pain, stool disturbances, decreased motor activity, drowsiness and lethargy.
Bone cancer – this type of disease is typical for large breeds. Signs of a malignant lesion bone tissue can only be seen on late stages currents, which is why the owner of a large animal must closely monitor the functioning of the musculoskeletal system of his pet. Minor lameness fast fatiguability or constantly slow steps are possible signs of bone damage, and the dog should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Skin cancer – this type of cancer accounts for about 15% of total number oncological diseases of dogs. It is difficult to detect skin lesions in animals due to the covering layer of hair. But walking the dog water treatments, an attentive owner may notice some changes. An example is the appearance of dark spots (like moles), the color of which varies from pink to almost black. It is important not to forget that skin cancer does not always affect only the skin, but can also appear on the mucous membranes and even on internal organs.
Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract - the symptoms are quite simple: constant stool disorders, lack of interest in food, vomiting, blood in the stool. The animal begins to rapidly lose body weight, behaves sluggishly, and anemia often develops.
Liver cancer can cause jaundice, which is immediately visible on the yellow sclera, because bile leaks into the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. The dog loses weight before our eyes, becomes lethargic and apathetic, and a constant alternation of constipation with diarrhea may appear. If therapy is not started, the dog may completely reject food, which will lead to complete exhaustion of the body.
Lung cancer is easy to differentiate from other types of oncology, because the animal develops bouts of prolonged and severe coughing. Even sitting still, the dog may begin to suffocate. Over time, the disease intensifies, and the cough acquires moist discharge mixed with pus and blood.
Spleen cancer is diagnosed relatively rarely. The disease has no special signs, because they are no different from the standard symptom complex of cancer: depressed state, loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, decreased activity. But, if veterinarians notice the presence of fluid in the peritoneum (using ultrasound), they will prescribe additional diagnostics, because this serious reason for suspicion dangerous pathology spleen and other organs in the abdominal cavity.
Kidney cancer - the onset of the disease is almost asymptomatic. But after a while, the dog may begin to move atypically, due to pain in the kidneys, and blood may appear in the urine. The animal becomes weak, loses interest in food, due to impaired metabolism and dysfunction excretory system, swelling develops.

Diagnostics

When diagnosing oncology in dogs, the doctor must collect an anamnesis: ask the owner when he noticed the problems, as well as about the rate of increase in signs of the disease. If the neoplasm depends on the level of hormones, it will cause an uneven clinic (changes in periods of exacerbation with periods of complete regression), due to changes in hormonal levels during sexual cycles or problems with hormonal imbalance.

When studying the tumor itself, doctors take into account its visual features, consistency, degree of tissue damage and connection with neighboring tissues, as well as the presence of necrotization.

Malignant tumors have an uneven bumpy surface, hard consistency and unclear boundaries. Suspecting the presence of a neoplasm in the abdominal cavity, the dog is subjected to bimanual palpation. During the procedure, the doctor may detect dense and painful nodes that are sharply shifted to the side (spleen cancer, small intestine), or with limited displacement (cancer of the liver, uterus, kidneys or ovaries). As a rule, a tumor that affects a certain organ causes its dysfunction.

When examining an animal, it is necessary to exclude pathologies whose symptoms are similar to cancer. General manifestations in the form of lethargy, lack of appetite, diarrhea and vomiting, characteristic of many infectious and viral ailments. For these reasons, the dog owner needs to remember when the dog first started pathological changes how long the dog has not eaten food, whether he is bothered by vomiting and changes in discharge. Any information will help the doctor quickly establish a diagnosis, excluding infections or poisoning from the list.

If a dog owner notices changes in his pet's behavior, he should examine him for any cuts or wounds that could become infected. You need to feel the paws, joints and skin for the presence of tumors or edema. Sometimes, you shouldn’t hesitate to look into the dog’s stool to check if there is blood or other impurities in the urine and feces.

Treatment of cancer in dogs

Treatment of such dangerous diseases like malignant tumors, you should trust only an experienced specialist. You should not rely on the advice of friends, read about it in books or on the Internet, rely on traditional healers or other charlatans who want to make a profit on someone else's misfortune. You need to remember that each case of cancer is individual, and if some smart people talk on forums on the Internet about how they beat cancer in a dog without the help of doctors, you should not rely on this information, since they could have encountered a completely different disease, just similar ones symptoms.

To stop cancer in a dog from growing and starting to metastasize, radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used. These methods are prescribed and carried out only by a doctor. Through treatment, he can achieve the destruction or at least significant weakening of cancer cells, which are important in the therapy process. After the tumor has been reduced in size as much as possible, it is removed. surgically, and conduct several more chemotherapy courses. To protect and support the body’s immune system, additional courses of immunostimulants, liver medications, multivitamins and medications are prescribed for symptomatic therapy. The duration and regimen of medications is selected individually for each case.

It is necessary to put the dog on a diet that completely excludes all fatty, sweet, spicy and canned foods, including all foods that are harmful even to healthy animals. A dog that is being treated and recovering needs to be provided with the most comfortable living conditions, regular walks for fresh air, moral support from the owner.

It is better to protect the animal from unwanted encounters with stray relatives, because after treatment the immune system It will take a long time to recover, and the chances of catching an infection are extremely high.

If all else fails

Unfortunately, even experienced veterinarians cannot always cope with a dog’s disease, and if the dog has no chance of remission, it would be more humane to stop its suffering.

Debilitating vomiting, unbearably severe pain, fading interest in life, this is what haunts the four-legged patient. Noticing a deterioration in the condition, lack of hope for the best, veterinarians themselves can talk about “relieving” the animal’s condition. Euthanasia is a difficult choice for any caring dog owner, but sometimes it the only way out to stop the dog's suffering.

If some doctors, without conducting a quality diagnosis, advise immediately euthanizing your pet, it is better to go to another veterinary clinic. Often, the doctor does not take seriously the fact that the owner is ready to fight for life shaggy friend until the last. And as practice shows, quite often such efforts are not in vain, and the disease recedes. The main thing is that the dog gets into good hands specialists, and felt the support of their owners.

Oncological diseases are a terrible diagnosis not only for people, but also for our little brothers. The disease develops due to the rapid division of cellular structures mutated at the DNA level, which replace healthy cells. A fairly common cancer diagnosed in veterinary practice is skin cancer in dogs. Tumors formed by mast cells have a benign course, but despite this, if treatment is not started, they are a serious form of cancer and can provoke severe disorders in the body. Any cancer, regardless of the nature and speed of development of the oncological process, often causes the death of a beloved pet.

Skin cancer in dogs is an oncological disease characterized by the appearance of a malignant formation that develops from the cellular structures of multilayered epithelium. The disease is diagnosed in veterinary practice in dogs of different sexes, age groups, breeds As a rule, formations are localized

The appearance of pathological neoplasms, which are formed by cancer cells, regardless of their location, in all cases is provoked by some kind of malfunction in the functioning of the body. Normally, the immune system of animals instantly destroys defective cells before they begin to divide uncontrollably. If the protective mechanisms do not work, the mutating cellular structures begin to rapidly divide, which leads to the formation of tumors and metastases.

Cancers, which can be benign or malignant, become invulnerable to killer cells, the body’s protective biologically active substances.

Predisposing factors, causes of dermal cancer in animals:

Squamous cell carcinoma can develop in dogs due to various dermatological pathologies(discoid lupus erythematosus, xeroderma pigmentosum, keratoacanthoma), viral and bacterial infections (papillomavirus infection). The disease may be caused by a lack of skin pigment, hair in places where pathological neoplasms are localized, or exposure to carcinogenic substances on the skin.

Scars after injuries, thermal, chemical burns, inflammatory processes in various structures dermis, solar keratosis, herpes virus, multiple follicular cysts also contribute to the development of squamous cell cancer in our little brothers.

It has been noted that papillomas of the mouth and conjunctiva often progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

Animals with weakened immune potential, fair skin, as well as dogs that live in the southern regions are at risk. geographical areas with long daylight hours.

Representatives who are genetically predisposed to skin cancer smooth-haired breeds– Boxers, Dalmatians, Great Danes, Argentine Dogs, Italian Greyhounds, Dobermans, Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, Whippets, Scottish Terriers.

Classification of skin cancers

Animals are diagnosed with several forms of external neoplasms, which are formed by different types of cellular structures. Each form of cancer has its own clinical manifestations, histological, morphological features. At the same time, the appearance of cancerous formations does not always allow one to determine their nature. the diagnosis is confirmed after a biopsy, surgery, and other comprehensive laboratory and physical studies.

The most common in dogs is:

Adenocarcinomas
Squamous cell carcinoma(melanomas, spinaliomas, fungal carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma). Melanomas are the most severe, aggressive form of cancer, as they often metastasize and spread very quickly. Metastasize by lymphohematogenous route. Neoplasms are formed from epithelial cells and melanocytes. Most often found in dogs with dark skin. Resemble in appearance a large wart on a thin stalk or a large age spot. They provoke disturbances in the functioning of the internal organs near which they are localized. The surface of neoplasms, which are formed from keratinocytes, can be covered with dry gray horny crusts and scales.
Adenocarcinomas(cancer of glandular skin cells). They are malignant. They are small tubercles, dense areas raised above the surface of the dermis. They can bleed, change, and affect muscles. They respond well to treatment in the early stages.
Carcinoma. They have a malignant course. Formed from epithelial cell structures.
Anaplastic sarcoma. It is a differentiated soft tissue tumor that develops from mesenchymal connective tissue.
Skin appendage cancer. Neoplasms are localized in the mouths of the sebaceous and sweat glands, at the base of the hair follicles.
Basaliomas. They are single smooth formations in the shape of a hemisphere, which are formed from the cells of the basal layer of the epidermis. A network of blood vessels is visible under the surface of the nodule. They have a grayish-gray, pearlescent, pinkish tint. They rise slightly above the surface of the dermis. They may not manifest themselves for a long time. They grow slowly, gradually increasing over the years. They may bleed as they grow. Rarely metastasize.
Lymphosarcoma(malignant lymphoma). Lymphoproliferative disease of the epidermis, damage to lymphatic tissue.
Cutaneous histioma. This form of skin cancer occurs in young dogs. It is an intradermal formation with an ulcerated, hairless surface, which is formed from immune cells dermis. Characterized by fairly rapid growth. initial stage responds well to treatment.
Mastocytomas. They have a benign or malignant course. Neoplasms that resemble a wart in appearance are formed from transformed mast cells dermis (mast cells). The disease often manifests itself as moist dermatitis. The malignant form of cancer is most often observed in bulldogs, Shar-Peis, boxers, and mastiffs.

Regardless of the form of cancer, on the body of pets there may be one or more cancerous lesions. Symptoms and the intensity of clinical manifestations largely depend on age, physiological state, immune potential, and the presence of predisposing factors.

Symptoms, manifestations of dermal cancer in animals

Tumor lesions of the epidermis occur with different clinical manifestations. Signs of skin cancer in dogs vary greatly and depend on the form, stage of cancer, type, nature of neoplasms, and histological structure.

Seals on the skin are usually painless and can occur as dermatoses or dermatitis. On the surface of the dermis you can notice uncharacteristic lesions, ulcers, foci of inflammation, small nodules, dense bumps of various sizes, erosions, rashes.

Benign cancers characterized by slow growth. They do not give metastases, but can provoke major changes in various structures of the epidermis.

Malignant tumors always metastasize, grow rapidly, cover large areas of skin, may recur after surgical removal. This form Oncological diseases often cause the death of a pet.

Unfortunately, dog owners, especially long-haired breeds, may not always notice skin cancer right away. External tumors can be localized on the body in various places: on the paws, sides, armpits, muzzle, neck, abdomen, limbs, anus, scrotum, mammary glands and even on the mucous membranes.

Characteristic signs of skin cancer in a dog:

loss of appetite, quick loss weight;
the presence of seals and nodules on the body. warty formations of various diameters. other uncharacteristic manifestations;
severe itching, appearance of hairless areas on the body;
enlargement and tenderness of regional lymph nodes;
skin pigmentation disorder;
deterioration of coat condition;
lethargy, apathy, drowsiness.

Skin cancers can have different sizes and surfaces. Often the lesions begin to bleed and change. Small single tumor foci can connect, forming extensive lesions.

Dogs may become anxious due to constant itching, quickly get tired after short physical activity, are reluctant to follow commands, and become inactive. With a normal appetite, pets quickly lose weight and look exhausted. If infection occurs, dogs experience severe pain.

Symptoms of squamous cell skin cancer

Squamous cell carcinoma appears in dogs near ears, on the back of the nose, lip, surface abdominal wall, in the periungual space, on the sides, paws. It can occur in ulcerative and nodular form. Has a clear tendency to metastasize to regional lymph nodes(located near the tumor). Characteristic symptom– rapid increase in tumor size.

New growths in the ulcerative form resemble a crater with an uneven, lumpy, crusty bottom. Ulcers grow quickly, affecting healthy tissue. Inflammation develops along the periphery of the tumor.

With the nodular form, small dense mobile nodules are noticeable on the surface of the dermis, which as they grow grow together with the skin, losing their mobility. The plaque is colored brown, brown color. Dry crusts are visible on the surface.

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma looks like a single, round, dense formation that rises slightly above the surface of the dermis. Consist of basal cells of the epidermis. The surface of the formations is smooth. May appear. In the center you can see scales, which, when opened, result in erosion. Basaliomas grow slowly, rarely metastasize, mainly through lymphatic system, but often recur.

There are several forms of basalioma: pigmentary, superficial, ulcerative, cicatricial, cicatricial-atrophic, fibroepithelial.

Tumors in dogs, which can be single or multiple, are localized on the neck, head, and other parts of the body. The prognosis is favorable in most cases.

Diagnostics

When diagnosing it is very important to establish the type, nature of the tumor, the root cause. The veterinarian performs a general visual examination and prescribes a puncture, incisional, and excisional biopsy. For histological, microscopic studies samples of affected people are sent to the laboratory tumor formations fabrics.

If cancer cells are detected in four-fingered patients, additional blood is taken from the animals for serological studies. Ultrasound of internal organs, MRI, CT (computed tomography) are prescribed.

Treatment methods for skin cancer in animals

The choice of treatment methods depends on the form, stage of cancer, type of tumor, and age of the dog.

In veterinary medicine, the following are used in the treatment of skin cancer:

surgical intervention;
chemotherapy;
radiation therapy;
hormone therapy (use of anti-testosterone drugs);
immunotherapy.

As a rule, in the treatment of cancer that affects the skin, veterinary practice combines several therapeutic methods. In this case, the best results are shown with radical surgical treatment.

If your dog is diagnosed basalioma, adenocarcinoma, skin cancer – carried out surgery. The tumor is excised, after which a symptomatic therapy(chemistry, hormones).

For melanomas about 2.5-3 cm in size, cryodestructive surgery or photodynamic therapy is indicated. For multiple melanomas, if surgery is not possible, combination therapy is used, which combines chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Mast cell treatment in the early stages it involves hormone therapy followed by excision of tumors. In cases of a widespread process, chemotherapy is indicated.

As a rule, if you start treatment for skin cancer in the early stages, with small lesions, the prognosis is favorable in most cases. The dog can fully recover from the illness. If there are metastases, the cancer has progressed to the third or fourth stage, the prognosis is grave.

IN postoperative period strictly follow the recommendations of your doctor.

Dogs can be prescribed symptomatic, restorative, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and hormones. Follow the dosage recommended in the medication instructions, and do not violate the frequency of taking medications. After surgery, provide your pet with rest and a balanced nutritional diet. Protect your dog from stress and physical activity.

After recovery, the pet will be assigned a schedule of scheduled visits to the veterinary clinic, since there are no guarantees full recovery After removal, there is no treatment for the tumor. To avoid relapses, be sure to take your dog for a routine checkup. Full recovery depends on the size and location of cancer formations.

What should a dog owner do if a male dog is diagnosed with testicular cancer, or a female dog is diagnosed with uterine cancer? This is our next article.

Tumors of the reproductive system are quite common. Often these tumors are hormone-dependent - that is, they arise when the hormonal levels in the animal’s body change.

Tumors of the reproductive system of bitches.

Tumors of any genital organ can be found in bitches, for example, vaginal cancer, uterine cancer or dog ovarian cancer.

Vaginal cancer in dogs is the second most common cancer after mammary cancer. Along with cancer, benign tumors can also develop; Fortunately for dogs and their owners, benign ones are more common. Tumors of smooth muscle or connective tissue are mainly observed. Often the neoplasm does not bother the dog, but if it grows excessively, it can cause profuse bleeding during estrus, difficulty urinating, or during childbirth.

Uterine tumors in dogs are also usually benign and are less common than vaginal tumors.

Ovarian tumors are also often benign. These tumors produce a large number of sex hormones, thereby affecting the dog's reproductive cycle. There are also non-hormonally active tumors - they are diagnosed later. More often, the symptoms of their appearance become noticeable when the tumor has already reached a significant size and begins to compress internal organs animal.

Symptoms of tumor development. The onset of tumor development is often asymptomatic. May occur general signs cancer process - weakness, exhaustion, depression, appetite disturbances. Often with the development of tumors reproductive system vaginal discharge, inflammation of the walls of the vagina or uterus, and accumulation of pus in the uterus are observed. When a neoplasm grows in a dog’s vagina, the mucous membrane of this organ may become swollen, urination problems may appear, and the dog may experience difficulties during childbirth. Symptoms of the development of uterine cancer in a dog are the development of pyometra, infertility. Ovarian tumors usually manifest themselves in disruption of the estrous cycle: estrus and sexual hunting may be absent, or, on the contrary, may appear constantly. Due to excess sex hormones, the dog may begin to go bald. An ovarian tumor can also lead to ascites (dropsy), which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Tumors of the reproductive system of male dogs

In males, organs of the reproductive system of dogs may occur, such as prostate (or prostate) cancer, testicular (testes) cancer.

Testicular cancer in dogs usually develops in males over seven years of age. These tumors develop especially often in cryptorchid males - these are males whose testes, one or both, have not descended into the scrotum. Testicular cancer in a dog can affect one or both testes. Most of these tumors are benign; some types may secrete hormones - mainly female hormone estrogen.

Prostate (or prostate) cancer in dogs can occur in both neutered and unspayed male dogs. Quite often these are malignant forms of the tumor - adenocarcinoma, firbosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma. In this case, tumors often metastasize to nearby bone structures– pelvic bones or spine. However, it should be noted that in males prostate often increases simply with age, and this process may not pose any danger to the dog.

Symptoms of tumor development. Symptoms of the development of testicular cancer in dogs are an increase in the size of the affected testis, the release of estrogen leads to baldness, swelling of the mammary glands, from which milk may even begin to be secreted. The male's sexual activity decreases. Prostate cancer in a dog leads to difficulty defecating, difficulty urinating, and the owner may also notice blood in the urine.

Diagnosis of tumors of the reproductive system.

Since the development of a tumor process in the reproductive system of dogs is often asymptomatic, it is very important to consult a doctor if you suspect a disease. At the veterinary clinic, they will examine your dog, ask you about its condition, and take blood and urine tests. If a vaginal tumor is suspected, this organ may be examined using a special probe and a tissue biopsy may be taken.

Important diagnostic measure is to conduct an ultrasound examination. It will allow you to determine the presence of tumors in the abdominal cavity, the presence and amount of fluid in it; will determine whether there are metastatic nodes in other organs. An X-ray of the lungs will also help exclude metastases in this organ.

After removing the tumor, the doctor will most likely send it for histological examination to the laboratory to accurately determine the type of tumor and the degree of malignancy.

Treatment of tumors of the reproductive system.

When benign tumor the only treatment option is surgical removal. If the tumor is malignant, surgical excision will likely be combined with radiation or chemotherapy. This will prevent or slow the development of metastases and may put the dog into remission.

Prevention of tumors of the reproductive system.

The best and most effective method of preventing tumors of the reproductive system in dogs is timely castration or sterilization of the animal. Spaying a female dog completely prevents the development of uterine and ovarian cancer, and early spaying also reduces the dog's risk of developing mammary cancer. Castration of a male dog completely prevents the occurrence of testicular cancer and reduces the likelihood of prostate cancer.

Oncological diseases have always existed, but in recent decades they have literally become the scourge of our time. Unfortunately, cancer does not spare our little brothers either - it affects both pets and wild animals. But if in nature a sick creature is doomed, pets have a chance for recovery or at least prolongation of life.

Treatment of oncology is complex and expensive, both in humans and in animals. The problem is further complicated by the fact that not all veterinary clinics available necessary equipment, medicines, as well as specialists who can diagnose, operate and treat cancer in dogs.

The attentiveness and observation of the owners plays a huge role in saving the life of an animal. If they can recognize signs of trouble early, the dog has a chance of recovery.

But oncological diseases are insidious because in most cases their signs appear in the later stages, when treatment becomes ineffective and we are no longer talking about recovery, but at least about prolonging existence or ending suffering.

Causes of the disease

No one yet knows the reliable causes of oncological tumors. It is believed that the following reasons are the factors that “trigger” the process of formation and development of pathological cells:

Stress.
Excessive insolation.
Poor nutrition.
Poor environmental conditions.
Toxins that enter the body with water, food, and medications.
Bad habits.
Radiation.
Impact heavy metals and much more.

Old and weakened animals are more susceptible to diseases than others, although cancer does not suffer from selectivity and affects both older dogs and young and strong dogs, and even puppies.

Most often, the following forms and types of malignant neoplasms occur in dogs:

Lymphoma.
Malignant histiocytoma.
Angiosarcoma.
Mammary cancer.
Mast cell tumor.
Melanoma.
Osteosarcoma.
Prostate cancer.
Transitional cell carcinoma.

Each type of this disease has its own specifics and requires a special method of treatment, the use of specific medications.

Which breeds are susceptible

Cancer can happen to anyone purebred dog and the mongrel too, but it is believed that the following breeds are most susceptible to neoplasms:

Boxers.
Great Danes.
St. Bernards.
Golden Retrievers.
Boston Terriers.

Belonging to a certain breed does not mean that a dog will certainly get cancer, but it is at risk and requires more attention to its health.

Symptoms

Oncological neoplasms are dangerous because in the first stages the disease proceeds without severe symptoms. But an experienced and attentive owner can note the following deviations in the behavior or appearance of the animal:

Digestive disorders - vomiting after eating, an unexplained decrease in appetite, strange behavior after eating, allowing one to suspect that the dog is suffering from pain. Constipation and diarrhea may be an indication of the presence of cancer in the gastrointestinal tract.
Problems with urination and bowel movements may be caused by a tumor of the prostate or rectum.
Coughing, bleeding from the mouth, the feeling that the dog is choking on food and water most often occur with damage to the lungs and other respiratory organs, cancer of the larynx, tumors of the jaw, tongue, lip, nose.
Changes in gait, unsteady, uncertain movements, and lameness indicate damage to the skeletal system.
Growths under and on the skin and changes in pigmentation can be symptoms of various types of cancer, including skin cancer.
Pain - the dog may suffer greatly from pain in the affected parts of the body, as well as from general intoxication, which is expressed severe weakness, exhaustion and apathy.
An unpleasant odor emanating from the animal or from individual areas affected by the tumor. Usually indicates the disintegration of a neoplasm, often accompanies breast cancer, lesions of the mouth, and skin.

Depending on the stage of the oncological process, manifestations can be pronounced or subtle, with inflammation of the lymph nodes during general process and metastases in the terminal stages of the disease.

Diagnostics in a veterinary clinic

In order to detect oncological diseases, an experienced specialist and a laboratory of the appropriate level are required. After a visual examination, the veterinarian will refer the dog for examination and prescribe laboratory tests.

Blood, stool and urine tests will be required depending on the type of disease to rule out other problems. ultrasound diagnostics, performing radiography if there is a suspicion of a process in the bones or metastases in them.

If it is difficult to identify the cause of the disease, the dog is referred to computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Not all clinics can do this, so diagnosing cancer in dogs has its own difficulties, especially in small populated areas"in the outback."

Treatment method and prognosis

Treatment of cancer patients is almost the same for both people and animals. It is always complex and consists of the following stages:

Surgical removal of the tumor. The neoplasm must be removed with a part of healthy tissue in order to protect against possible penetration of cancer cells into surrounding tissues and spread of the process.
Irradiation using a special device. This is not possible in all veterinary clinics. The method is not used for all types of cancer tumors and is not applicable for some types of tumor localization.
Chemotherapy. It involves taking toxic drugs that can kill cancer cells, destroy or reduce tumors and metastases, and also prevent their formation and further spread.

You should not give your dog medications intended for humans because, despite general principles effects on tumors, the type of medication, dosage and intensity of treatment are selected only by a veterinarian. This is because the dose is calculated only for the individual dog, taking into account his weight, age, general health and the presence of additional problems.

If the doctor prescribes painkillers, there is also a danger of overdose. Owners should obtain full advice from a specialist on how they should act in certain situations.

Treatment of any form of cancer is extremely complex, lengthy and expensive. However, there are some types of this terrible disease that are easier to treat than others and can be cured completely or give long-term remission. These include skin cancer in the early stages.

If the tumor was small, the affected area was insignificant, the stage was early, without the formation of metastases, then the dog has a good chance of recovery.

What to do at home

Caring for a sick animal must be especially careful, especially if it is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. During this period, drafts and dampness pose a particular danger, as pneumonia can very quickly kill the dog. This is due to the fact that his defenses and immunity are practically killed by the disease and specific medications.

The dog needs to be provided with a warm, quiet, shaded place and constant access to clean drinking water. Since her fur may fall out, her corner needs to be brushed frequently. If the doctor has prescribed any medications, then they must be given strictly according to his instructions.

If the animal is after surgery, caring for it is exactly the same as after any other surgical intervention. The seams must be carefully treated with special disinfectant compounds; if redness, blood, pus appears, or if the animal is restless, you must immediately call a veterinarian.

After surgery, your dog needs to eat well to speed up recovery and strengthen its weakened immune system. The doctor will give necessary recommendations on feeding depending on which organs were affected by cancer. There are some subtleties and restrictions in feeding if the dog has had cancer of the digestive or excretory organs.

Cancer is terrible because it causes incredible suffering to patients. If it becomes obvious that there is no hope for recovery, and the dog is in great pain, it would be much more humane to end its suffering.

Possible complications

With cancer the most dangerous complication- these are metastases leading to the spread of cancer throughout the dog’s body. This leads to a generalization of the process, which is expressed by increased intoxication. If organs such as the brain, lungs, liver and, less commonly, the heart are affected, the dog’s fate is predetermined. The duration of her remaining life is calculated in months, and sometimes weeks.

Bone lesions lead to pathological fractures that do not heal. Problems with digestive system extremely exhausting for both the dog and its owners. She literally melts before our eyes, practically dying from exhaustion.

Since cancer is treatable only in the first two stages, if there is terminal stages there is no talk of recovery. You can only provide your pet with calm, painless last days life surrounded by loving and caring owners.

Prevention measures

As such preventive measures there is no cure for cancer. However, you can monitor the health of your pet. It is important to provide him with good, high-quality and balanced diet, healthy image life, timely treatment and excellent care.

To prevent cancer, you need to avoid risk factors, for example, not keeping your dog in direct sunlight. It has been proven that malignant melanoma occurs much more often with regular intense radiation, especially with sunburn.

Hairless and short-haired dogs are more susceptible to this than others, especially those with light skin and hair. White dogs and cats often have pink noses, which are very affected by the sun's rays. With repeated burns, the risk of cancer increases several times.

Although exposure to the sun is good for your animal's health, keeping it in direct sunlight is very dangerous. In hot countries to light dogs You should wear hats if you wear them to the beach or long walks. By the way, the local population has long been practicing such methods, supplying horses and donkeys with straw hats.

There are a number of studies suggesting that fortifying foods with vitamins and antioxidants reduces the risk of developing malignant tumors. In any case, before taking any steps, you must mandatory consult your veterinarian.