Dec 4, 2008 6:05 pm US/Eastern
Many Canines In Danger Of Deadly Disease
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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If you're a dog owner, your beloved pet could be at risk of contracting a killer disease.
If you're a dog owner, your beloved pet could be at risk of contracting a killer disease.
Healthwatch reporter Kellye Lynn reveals the prevalence of canine cancer.
Canine cancer is a serious threat. It's the number one killer of dogs over the age of two.
It's a dreaded disease in humans and the 80 to 90 million dogs in the U.S. are not immune.
"Bruiser was discovered to have a tumor in his stomach," said Don Armentrout, dog owner.
Bruiser, 9, is battling fibrosarcoma, a cancerous mass in his abdomen that requires daily chemotherapy.
Rachel Klickman is Bruiser's doctor.
"Some cancers are very benign. If you go in and remove them surgically, you can get rid of it forever," said Klickman. "Others are really aggressive and require aggressive surgery and things like chemotherapy."
But treating canine cancer can be expensive. The thousands of dollars it takes don't guarantee a cure. Many dog owners opt to let the disease run its course.
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Of the cancers that I've documented, I've probably had three out of 10 people pursue treatment," said Klickman.
Every year, one in four dogs in the U.S. dies of cancer. Golden retrievers like Bruiser have a heightened risk.
"We had two previous dogs that were diagnosed with cancer. We lost two in two months time from cancer," said Mary Armentrout.
Doctors say understanding the causes of canine cancer and improving treatment will require millions of dollars in funding.
Although there are many unanswered questions, it is clear that spaying or neutering your pet can eliminate the risk of testicular and uterine cancers and significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Since early detection increases survival, if you have a dog over the age of eight, make sure your animal has a physical examination twice a year.
Dog breeds most likely to get cancer include:
Bernese Mountain Dog
Boxer
Cocker Spaniel
Golden Retriever
English Springer Spaniel
Pug
Shar-pei
Greyhound
Rottweiler
Collie
Scottish Terrier
Chow Chow
Flat-coated Retriever
Any large or giant breed
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