Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day
November 7th is Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day. As a pet owner it can be devastating to hear that your canine companion has been given a cancer diagnosis. However, through client education and resources, we at My Vet are able to guide you through the options and treatments should you and your furry family member be faced with this disease.
One of the most common forms of canine cancer, lymphoma can sometimes be one of the most highly treatable cancers, with various options, ranging from medications to chemotherapy. However, while we can see our canine pals go into remission for some time, lymphoma most always proves fatal. Dogs diagnosed with lymphoma often show no active sign of the disease, but owners may notice that they have inflamed lymph nodes. In other cases they may show signs like lethargy, fever, inappetence and vomiting or diarrhea.
There are five stages of lymphoma. Stages are determined through various diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, urinalysis, radiographs, ultrasound and biopsy. These tests help evaluate which stage the cancer process is in and your doctor will help to guide you through the best medical approach.
Stage I – only one lymph node (or lymphoid tissue in one organ) is involved
Stage II – multiple lymph nodes (or a chain of lymph nodes in a localized area) are involved
Stage III – widespread, generalized lymph node involvement (most or all peripheral lymph nodes are affected)
Stage IV –liver and/or spleen involvement, in addition to any of the above
Stage V –bone marrow involvement, blood involvement or involvement of any organ, in addition to any of the above
Lymphoma can be a difficult diagnosis for anyone and their beloved pet and we at My Vet deeply understand the bond we have with our dogs, and are here to help guide you through the best path, whether it be aggressive treatment or hospice care.
To learn more about canine lymphoma, we have attached a link to a documentary highlighting the journey of canine lymphoma through education and research.