Pet Corner

– conclusion
As promised in our last week’s column, we will have a look today at some other assorted cancers that affect our companion animals. Then we will briefly sum up all that has been discussed over the last few weeks.

Bone Tumours (Osteomas)
These tumours in the bones of dogs are not often presented early in their development in the vet’s clinic. Perhaps the owners don’t recognise the swelling in its early stages; or they don’t take the tumours seriously, since the dog’s health does not seem to be compromised too much.

I would like to advise, in general, that any swelling (in any tissue) should be treated with some gravity. In the case of bone tumours in dogs, one should always view them suspiciously, since a malignant bone tumour, though rare, is a serious, life threatening matter.If there is a bone tumour in the dog, it will usually exhibit itself when the dog is middle-aged (six-eight years), although I have seen bone tumours at practically all ages of the adult dog. For what it is worth, I must mention that bone tumours seem to affect male dogs more than females. Also, I have never seen a bone tumour in a small breed dog.

Those bone cancers with which I have seen confronted were almost exclusively to be found in the leg bones (although the literature documents bone cancers in the ribs). Often, the first symptom is a slight lameness, which does not go away. It is for this reason that the dog is presented to the vet. Usually, there is not much pain associated with the swelling. Later, as the bone tumour becomes more pronounced, the pain also increases. The surest way to determine whether we are dealing with a bone tumour is to have the dog x-rayed.

Lastly, the metastasis (cancer spread) from the bone tissue to other organs occurs early and frequently.

Worse, the surgical option is not very successful. In the end, more likely than not, dogs with well developed bone cancers are euthanased.

Tumours in the anal area
Every now and then we are confronted with soft tissue neoplasms in the perianal area. The lumps around the anus (anal gland) become ulcerated. This, in turn, will lead to a secondary bacterial infection and lot of scratching of the area. The dogs often ‘scoot’ on their behinds. Of course, with all the pain occurring in the anal area, the dog will not want to defecate. Constipation is the consequence.

More often than not, the glands on both sides of the anus are the location of the tumours. These anal glands help in the demarcation of ‘territory’. Perhaps that is why this disease is only in male dogs. The treatment is radical surgery. In addition, the dog should be castrated or treated with female hormones. Your veterinarian will advise.

A final word
Over the last few weeks we have been dealing with this dreaded ailment of cancer. I had mentioned the possible causes of cancer. It follows therefore, that as much as possible, we should prevent any cancer precipitating agents (chemicals, etc) from influencing the unnatural growth of cells. According to the tissue affected, your veterinarian will advise what steps are to be taken in terms of ensuring a full cure.

Throughout the articles I have been emphasising that you need not be terrified by cancer in your companion animals. Once the malignant tumour has been identified early enough, radical surgery usually removes the problem permanently.

Again, don’t let your concept of surgery drive terror into your hearts. Most of these tumours and benign/ malignant growths can be removed by your veterinarian.

Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-Heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals. Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.