We never think it will happen to us, but I’m sure we all know somebody that has lost a dog to Cancer.
It seems to be more prevalent now than ever. Depending on whom you talk to, some blame it on the diet we feed our beloved dogs, others on over vaccination, spot on treatments for ticks & fleas,whilst others say it’s genetic
As with human medicine, there are great advancements in Veterinary Care in Ireland, and with the introduction of Continuing Veterinary Education from 2012, all Vets must attend at least 2 – 3 refresher courses per year, in order to continue to practice in the state.
Approximately 25% of dogs will now die of cancer. Although this is a very alarming statistic, a positive diagnosis of cancer should not be seen as a death sentence. Cancer can be treated, and in many cases it can be cured. The success of treatment will depend on the type of cancer, the treatment used and on how early the tumour is found.
Treatment will either be surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Surgery is still the most widely used treatment for most dog cancers. In some cases a combination of treatments may be used. A combination of surgery followed by chemotherapy is used for some aggressive tumours.
I am aware of at least one Veterinary practice in Co. Cork that offers all of the above treatments, and maybe it would be worthwhile preparing a list of all Veterinary practices in Ireland, that offer the same for dogs.
Let me know of any Veterinary practices you know of in your county and I can start the list and publsih same on this bog.
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