Did you know that 1 in 4 dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime? In cats, mammary tumours are 85% malignant. Many other species such as hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and even reptiles are vulnerable to cancer as well.
What is a tumour?
The terms, tumour and mass are descriptions of the bump or swellings that your veterinarian might see or feel one on your pet. The term benign means the tumour grows locally and does not spread. However, malignant means the tumour can spread to any place in the body. Malignant and cancer are used interchangeably.
How is Cancer Diagnosed?
Your veterinarian requires comprehensive diagnostic testing to be able to give you a definitive answer of what that bump/swelling is. It starts with a complete physical examination, blood work, a sample of the tumour and then additional testing like X-rays, MRI and CAT Scans might be needed.
What does cancer testing and treatment cost?
Getting the correct diagnosis and proper treatment for your loving pet can be very expensive. Cancer treatment can range into the thousands of dollars. One way to help alleviate the cost is through Pet Insurance, and there are many different Pet Insurance companies. The staff at Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital can help you choose the best one for you. If you start Pet Insurance when your pet is young, it is in place whenever you and your pet need it.
The other amazing option to help a family afford the proper cancer treatment for their pet is through an organization called Animal Cancer Therapy Subsidization Society (ACTSS)
ACTSS is a not-for-profit society dedicated to bringing affordable cancer treatment to veterinary cancer patients. Through their programs, they provide subsidies to dedicated pet owners that decide to take on the difficult journey in providing their pet with cancer treatment. The staff at Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital will assist you with any questions you have regarding cancer treatment and ACTSS.
Cancer treatment for your loving family pet is now a realistic option!
Written by: Dr. Lisa Lomsnes, DVM
