As in humans, there are multiple causes including viruses, environmental exposures such as sunlight, and genetics. Contrary to rumors, there is absolutely no evidence that pet foods and their preservatives cause an increase in cancer. Spaying a female dog before her first heat cycle will virtually eliminate mammary cancer. If you are not going to breed your dog, spay her early. Great developments have been made in the treatment of canine cancers that remarkably parallel the progress of cancer care in humans.
Early detection is important.
An annual complete physical examination can ensure early diagnosis and treatment. Bring all lumps and bumps to the attention of your veterinarian. The same modalities of treatment that are used in humans, such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, are commonly used in modern veterinary clinics. Cancer, once looked upon as an absolute death sentence in dogs, is now commonly treated as a chronic disease. All Rights Reserved.