Mammary cancer in dogs or canine breast cancer is a malignant tumor in a dog's mammary gland. Just as in humans, the incidence of this cancer is most prevalent in females. Although it has been seen in male dogs, the incidence is 1% or less.
Mammary Cancer In Dogs Is Preventable
Mammary cancer in dogs is a largely preventable disease. Spaying the female dog before her first estrus can virtually eliminate the incidence of this tumor. The spay is akin to the human hysterectomy as it removes the reproductive organs that include the ovaries. Ovaries are responsible for producing the hormone estrogen that can promote breast tumors. By removing the ovaries, circulating estrogen is greatly diminished, thereby cutting the risk of a breast cancer.
Male Dogs Can Get Mammary Cancer Too
Even though the incidence of mammary cancer in dogs is disproportionately found in the female dog, it can also occur in the male. Because of this, it is important that the underside of the male dog be palpated for any lumps or irregularities. Almost always, any irregularities that are felt will not be the result of a mammary cancer, but a benign lipoma or fatty tumor or cyst. In spite of this, any lump or bump that is felt on the dog should be reported to the veterinarian.
Surgery as Preferred Treatment for Mammary Cancer in Dogs
Treatment for mammary cancer in dogs is surgery. Surgery to remove the malignant tumor is usually curative. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have not been shown to be effective and, therefore, are rarely, if ever used. The surgeon will either elect to perform a lumpectomy where only the tumor is excised, or a mastectomy, where the whole mammary gland is removed. The surgical procedure will depend on the extent of the tumor. Canine mammary cancer is usually caught at an early stage, especially if the dog's owner is a hands-on owner. By petting the dog frequently, canine mammary cancer can be readily felt on the belly.
Importance of Follow Up Vet Visits
After the dog undergoes surgery for mammary cancer, it is important to keep all follow-up vet visits. The vet will examine the surgical site to ensure the dog is not experiencing signs of infection and will palpate the dog's body to check for any suspicious lumps or bumps. Routine blood work may be taken to check for microscopic evidence of metastasis or spreading of the cancer. Mammary cancer in dogs, if detected early, does not routinely spread.
Aftercare of the Canine Surgical Patient
While the dog is recuperating from her surgery, it is important that exercise is gradually reintroduced into her daily routine. It is common for the dog to experience deconditioning that can have a negative effect on her mobility. Deconditioning occurs when the dog's activities are curtailed because of illness or surgery and causes the animal to become less mobile and weak. By incorporating small amounts of exercise into the routine, the dog can gradually rebuild her strength to that of her preoperative status.
The dog must be monitored at the suture line for redness, inflammation and warmth, as these can point to local infection. Fever, vomiting and lethargy can all be signs of a systemic infection that is directly a result of the surgical procedure. If any of these signs are present, a phone call or visit to the vet is imperative.
As stated, mammary cancer in dogs is highly preventable and if contracted, is very treatable. With proper treatment and timely follow up care, the dog can regain her original vim and vigor while enjoying a happy, healthy life.
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