About Papillary Carcinoma in Dogs

Papillary carcinoma in dogs is relatively rare but can be alarming for some pet owners. This is a type of thyroid cancer. When you know a lot about this type of cancer and what to expect, you can treat this canine thyroid cancer more effectively. While having a pet with cancer is a frightening experience, there are effective treatments available.

How This Cancer Forms

The cause of papillary carcinoma in dogs is not really well-known. Over-stimulation of the thyroid is commonly blamed for cancerous cells. Older dogs are more susceptible due to increased cell division. In some cases, genetics can play a role. Certain breeds have more of a tendancy to develop cancer than others do.

Diagnosis of Cancer

Canine thyroid cancer may have very few symptoms, so it's often difficult to spot at first. Sometimes there is difficuly breathing or swallowing due to the location of the tumor. Your vet will need to do tests to rule out the possibility of other thyroid problems that can afflict dogs. Early detection is essential, because these tumors spread to other organs easily.

Treatment

While it does happen sometimes, it is very rare for papillary carcinoma in dogs to go away on its own. Your vet will initially use surgery to remove any tumors that are present. Radiation therapy will be done if there is any evidence of cancer remaining. Chemotherapy drugs may also be prescribed.

Home Care

When tumors related to canine thyroid cancer have been surgically removed, follow all directions given by your vet carefully. This is essential to a trouble-free recovery process. Be sure to keep all follow-up appointments. You may need to give your dog calcium and Vitamin D supplements, depending on the results of bloodwork. Always watch for swelling, which may be evidence that the cancer is recurring. While there is no known cure for cancer, there is a good chance that your dog's cancer could go into remission.