Most Common Canine Cancer Myths

1. Most Common Canine Cancer Myths There’s nothing more terrifying than the word ‘Cancer.’ It’s a disease that occurs due to various internal and external factors – genetics and environment. For dog owners, cancer has always been a sensitive topic because no one wants their pet to suffer from this grievous disease. There are many myths regarding cancer treatment in dogs. Myths can make you doubt your knowledge. Because of that, you might hesitate before starting any cancer treatment on your pooch. Here we have discussed the most common myths and whether they’re true or not. Myth #1 Environment and Food Causes Cancer Fact: Although the environment contributes to causing cancer, it is not the only factor responsible. Genetics plays an important role. From years of research and study, it is believed that inbreeding is likely the cause of cancer. The environmental factors like smoke, exposure to heat and herbicides contribute to it, turning the situation even worse. When both genetic and environmental factors come together, cancer tumors form and deteriorate your dog’s health. Myth #2 Cancer Treatment Won’t Completely Cure the Disease Fact: Well, mortality is inevitable. So, it’s not practical to ask for a cancer treatment that ensures the pet will have a long life. Our efforts should be towards providing the best treatment so that the quality of their lives improves. Don’t think about how many years your pet will live; make every day memorable and focus on making their life less painful and happier. Myth #3 Cancer in Pets Has Increased In Last Few Years Fact: It’s a known fact that cancer can occur at any stage of life. The older dogs are at higher risk because of their age and weaker immune system. Advancement in the healthcare industry has lead to a better quality of life and as a result, dogs now have a longer lifespan. Since cancer is more prevalent in older dogs, the percentage of dogs with cancer has increased in the past years. Myth #4 Only Start Treatment When The Dog Becomes Sick Fact: In cancer, early diagnosis is the key. If your dog is diagnosed with cancer but isn’t showing any symptoms, don’t wait until he becomes sick. It’s possible that cancer has not

2. spread in other areas of your dog’s body, so if you treat it immediately, chances are he’ll recover completely. Myth #5 Cancer Treatment Will Make The Dog Bald Fact: This depends on the type of dog breed. The fur of most dogs won’t be affected during the treatment. The shedding of fur happens rarely and that too in dogs like Bichon Frise and Poodle. Even then, their fur will grow back eventually so they won’t be permanently bald. Myth #5 Cancer Treatment Is Meaningless In Old Dogs Fact: Treatment is not determined by age. As discussed in point 3, cancer generally occurs in old dogs. If the dog is healthy and has good sustainability, he won’t face any troubles during the treatment. Don’t let your dog succumb to the disease; a good quality diet and proper treatment will help him in his last stage of life. Myth #6 Chemotherapy Will Worsen My Pet’s Health Fact: The purpose of chemotherapy is to improve the quality of the dog’s life for as long as he lives. The treatment will remove the cancer cells from the dog’s system and help him live a healthy life. The chances of side effects by chemotherapy are less than 25%. The side effects that occur are not dangerous and will go away in a few days. Myth #7 My Dog Won’t Be Able To Perform Daily Activities during Treatment Fact: Your dog can carry on with all the activities even during chemotherapy. Chemotherapy improves your dog’s health, not the other way around. You won’t have to restrict his activities just because he’s going through the treatment. Myth #8 The Treatment Is Very Expensive Fact: This depends on the type of cancer your dog has. The cost is determined based on which option you select for your dog’s treatment as many alternative options are available. Your vet will suggest treatments best suited for your dog and your budget. We always suggest that you should consult your vet in such severe cases. They know your dog’s history and will always provide the best possible solution. This blog is written for pet owners who are confused about where to start or don’t know what to do in such a situation. You may also like to read – 10 Warning Signs That Your Dog Has Cancer