Unlike many other pets, canines can get tumors just like humans. Uncontrolled cell development causes cancer. These cells may come from any part of the body. Cancer may spread to other tissues and interact with the circulatory or lymph systems if not detected and treated early. A tumor is the primary cause of death in dogs over ten years old. However, 50% of all canine cancers are curable if caught early.
Common Types of Skin Tumors
Skin diseases are one the most commonly reported health problems in dogs. This can range from simple allergic dermatitis to parasites and tumors. Amongst these reported skin ailments, skin tumors are by far the riskiest. Tumors on the skin can indicate several things.
Some skin growths show naturally as the dog ages but don’t usually pose a health risk. Skin tumors expand in size rapidly, indicating a more severe complication. Identifying a skin tumor is vital before deciding whether or not additional treatment is required. To learn more about the health risks of skin tumors in dogs, you can ask your veterinarian for the proper treatment.
Mast Cell Tumors
Most mast cell tumors in dogs are skin-based, although some are internal. Mast cell tumors are one of the most prevalent types of cancer in dogs. Usually, mast cells are located in different parts of the body and play a critical role in allergies in dogs. They contain chemical granules that may cause an allergic and inflammatory response when exposed to the allergen. Mast cell cancers can be diagnosed via fine-needle aspiration.
Recommended procedure after detecting it is to surgically remove the tumor using a wide-margin excision technique that eliminates a part of healthy tissue or skin to prevent or minimize regrowth. Most veterinary experts advise pet owners to enroll their dogs in pet wellness plans to reduce the likelihood of contracting skin tumors. Talk to your trusted vet for more information on how to get it.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare condition of skin cancer but the most frequently encountered carcinoma in dogs. SCC tumors are commonly seen in senior dogs, and breeds like basset hounds, beagles, and standard poodles are more likely to develop it. SCC in dogs occurs as raised, ulcerated plaques and nodules on the animal’s skin.
If left without treatment, this type of tumor has the potential to become a huge mass. The recommended thing to do is to have the tumor surgically removed. A wide margin incision throughout your pet surgery will reduce the tumor’s possibility to grow back.
Melanoma
Melanomas are skin tumors that develop in the pigmented cells of the dog’s skin and spread throughout the body. This form of lump is common in dark-skinned dogs. In most cases, melanoma tumors are harmless and do not spread to other parts of the dog’s body.
Malignant melanomas are uncommon yet highly invasive and aggressive. When a dog is diagnosed with malignant melanoma, immediate medical attention is required. In dogs, surgical treatment of benign skin melanomas is typically curative, and the risk of recurrence is relatively reduced.
Ultimately
Keeping track of your dog’s behavior, body, and physical health is vital to their overall health. It’s also a great idea to be on the lookout for any lumps or bumps you may see on your pet dog’s body when grooming or petting them. If your canine companion is exhibiting one or more of the symptoms indicated above, set up an appointment with your trusted veterinarian as quickly as possible.
