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Canine cancer is one of the leading causes of dog deaths. Of the more than 100 million dogs in North America, about two in four will develop cancer and one in four will die from some form of this dreaded disease. In some purebred dogs, the percentages could be even higher.
Some pet owners who live in a metropolitan area have the choice of visiting a veterinary teaching hospital or a specialty center with a veterinary oncologist. Unfortunately, not all owners are as lucky. Sadly, cancer will claim almost 50 percent of dogs over 10 years old, leaving their owners bewildered and unsure of what to do. And of the almost 9,000 veterinary specialists, less than 200 specialize in veterinary oncology. A new collaboration, however, may help provide some answers – and options.
The Morris Animal Foundation (MAF; www.morrisanimalfoundation.org) has launched the Canine Cancer Campaign in an attempt to stop cancer in our pets with a goal to cure this deadly disease within the next 10 to 20 years. Another immediate priority of the foundation is collaborating with cancer specialists ensuring pet owners have access to treatment options and advice. Additionally, the MAF Canine Cancer Campaign brings together research scientists, industry leaders and 44 million dog-owning households throughout the nation in an effort to eradicate canine cancer. Already, multiple scientific endeavors are working towards this end.
Everyone needs to have options; sometimes pet owners feel helpless and think that euthanasia is the only option available.
Beyond helping our dogs with new innovative therapies, the Canine Cancer Campaign offers benefits for us as well. Many breakthroughs happening in this research will help fuel further prevention, treatment and even cures for human cancers.
Remember, there is hope for dogs and their owners – despite a cancer diagnosis. Many dogs will tolerate cancer treatments well. Your veterinarian will work with you, local specialists and national resources to ensure your pet receives the best outcome possible.
To learn more about the Canine Cancer Campaign (www.curecaninecancer.org) or the Morris Animal Foundation, visit www.MyVNN.com for links to their sites as well as a video outlining how you can help defeat cancer in your dog’s lifetime.
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Dr. Sara Lash runs Healthy Pets Mobile Vet and can be reached via www.drsaralash.com or at 919-329-7387(PETS)
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