Cancer in Geriatric Dogs

As your dog receives higher quality food and healthcare, he will live longer. Just as with people, when your dog enters his geriatric years, his chances of getting cancer increase. Fortunately, treatments for many types of canine cancer are improving. Learning more about symptoms and treatments for some geriatric canine cancers may help you catch any cancers early. 

Colon Cancer in Geriatric Dogs

Colon cancer becomes more common in dogs that are over 10 years old. The dog may suffer gastrointestinal bleeding and constipation, and may be lethargic and lose weight. At this time, canine colon cancer does not have a cure.

Hemangiaosarcoma

These types of cancers tend to affect older dogs more than younger ones. There are skin, subcutaneous and visceral variations. Unfortunately, these types of cancers often don’t have many symptoms, until a tumor has ruptured. Because they can be difficult to catch early, they can be difficult to treat. Treatments will vary depending on the location, and may include surgery and chemotherapy. 

Lymphoma

There are various forms of lymphoma, and they are categorized by the location in the dog’s body where the cancer started. Certain pesticides and dog genetics may increase the risk of getting lymphoma. One symptom is swollen lymph glands, although lymphoma may affect glands that can’t be easily seen or felt. Lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting and increased thirst are just a few other symptoms of lymphoma. Chemotherapy can be used to treat this type of cancer. 

Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, occurs more frequently in older dogs, although overall it is a less common canine cancer. This is a painful cancer, and symptoms include lameness and swelling caused by bone tumors. The disease tends to progress more slowly in geriatric dogs compared to young dogs. Treatments may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and amputation.