Cancer and Your Canine

Even if we're lucky enough to not experience it firsthand, very few of us are unaware of the devastating effects cancer can have. But many of us don't know that this disease can affect our entire family, even those who walk on four feet and not two. In fact, according to the Morris Animal Foundation, dogs older than 2 are most likely to die from cancer.

Your dog can develop cancers as varied as those that affect people, and for the same reasons. While no sure-fire cancer preventative exists, we as pet parents can help protect our four-legged family members from getting the disease. Certain breeds - Golden retrievers and Bernese Mountain dogs, for example - are more likely to develop certain cancers, so know your pet's risk. Make sure she gets plenty of exercise and eats healthfully, and limit her exposure to known cancer-causing agents, like tobacco smoke.

And finally, make sure your pup has regular wellness visits with us so we can ensure any issues are caught early and treated with a fully healthy outcome in mind.

Together, let's take your pet into old age!

The Big "C"

20% OFF lumps and bumps removal through the month of November!

Our feline friends may be less likely to develop cancer than their human companions or canines, but that doesn't make the disease any easier to treat. In fact, cancer in cats is often diagnosed later, as symptom can be hard to detect, which can lead to more difficult and costly treatments.

Although seeing the signs of cancer in cats can be tricky, here are some things to look for:

• Lumps and bumps
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Refusing to eat and weight loss
• A Rough coat

While cancer is much more likely to develop in a cat who has reached her golden years, even young cats can develop this condition. It's always best, if your cat is acting unusually or is lethargic for any length of time, to bring your cat to us to be checked out.

Being aware of possible signs of cancer, paired with regular wellness visits, can help you detect worrisome behaviors early so we can provide the best possible care.

If your cat has any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an appointment to see us TODAY.

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