Cancer in Dogs - Checking for signs of lymphoma

Hi, I'm Dr. Colleen and this is another edition of Petsecure pet health tips. November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month and today we're talking about lymphoma. Signs that your pet may have lymphoma can sometimes be pretty subtle. There may be some slight changes in weight loss, there may be some changes in energy. Most people will see things like large lumps underneath the neck, in front of the shoulders or in behind the knees. One of the best ways to keep your pet healthy is by doing your own home examination. So as we examine our pets, we want to just pat them the way we normally would We want to feel for any lumps or bumps, any sores, any lesions We want to feel along the neck. This is where the main lymph glands are. Along the throat, underneath the collar here, and come down in front of her shoulders, along her sides, and then as we come down, we want to stand her up. Good girl! And we want to feel underneath the belly, underneath the chest. We want to look for any other lumps there. Look down her legs. We do want to check underneath the tail. Don't forget the toes. And if you do find anything, you want to make sure you call your veterinarian. They will do some blood tests, they will check the lumps out, possibly do some needle biopsies right there that day. Remember that it's always about the conversation between you and your doctor to decide what, in the long run, is going to be the best treatment for your pet at home.