November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month, a monthly holiday founded to raise awareness about one of the leading causes of death in pets and to honor the veterinarians who care for our pets. Just like in humans, cancer can affect pets in various forms, making early detection and prevention crucial. During this month, pet owners have an opportunity to educate themselves and others about the risks, symptoms, and prevention of pet cancer. Alexander Animal Hospital recommends a few ways to observe Pet Cancer Awareness Month, as well as some facts about cancer in animals that may surprise you.
How to Observe Pet Cancer Awareness Month
- Take Your Pet to the Vet One of the best ways to observe Pet Cancer Awareness Month is by scheduling a vet checkup for your furry companion. Regular veterinarian visits can help catch any health issues, including cancer, early on. Your vet at Alexander Animal Hospital can also guide you on signs to look for and provide advice on preventative care.
- Donate to a Pet Cancer Care Institution Many organizations focus on researching pet cancer treatments and providing care to animals battling cancer. Donating to these institutions during Pet Cancer Awareness Month can help fund critical research and support the treatment of pets in need.
- Tell Your Friends and Family Spreading awareness is key to making a difference. Share facts about pet cancer with your friends, family, and fellow pet owners. You can also post on social media to help others learn how they can participate in Pet Cancer Awareness Month and keep their pets healthy.
5 Facts You Might Not Know About Cancer in Animals
- Certain Breeds Are More at Risk Did you know that some dog breeds are more prone to developing cancer? Golden retrievers, Scottish terriers, and Bernese mountain dogs are among the breeds with a higher risk. If you own one of these breeds, being proactive with regular vet visits is especially important.
- Animal Cancer is Widespread There are approximately 100 types of pet cancer, making it a common health concern for animals. From skin cancers to lymphoma, cancer can appear in various forms, making awareness and education critical for pet owners.
- Skin is the Most Prone to Cancer Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is the most prevalent form of cancer in pets. Be sure to regularly check your pet’s skin for any unusual growths, lumps, or bumps, and consult your vet if you find anything suspicious.
- Senior Dogs Have a Higher Risk As pets age, their risk of developing cancer increases. In fact, about 50% of canines over the age of 10 will contract some form of cancer. Pet Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to ensure older pets receive the necessary checkups and care to detect any early signs of illness.
- Smoke is a Risk to Pets Second-hand smoke isn’t just dangerous to humans—it can also increase the risk of cancer in pets. Dogs and cats exposed to tobacco smoke are more likely to contract certain cancers, including lung and nasal cancers. If you’re a smoker, consider creating a smoke-free environment for your pets.
Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Raising Awareness and Taking Action
This November, take the time to observe Pet Cancer Awareness Month by prioritizing your pet’s health. Whether it’s scheduling a checkup, donating to cancer research, or sharing important facts with others, every effort helps. By staying informed and proactive, we can all work together to keep our beloved pets healthy and protected from cancer.
Don’t wait—take action this Pet Cancer Awareness Month and give your pet the best chance at a long and healthy life.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!