March 22, 2012
Posted in How to, Pet Health, Pet Meds

Lymphoma can be hard to understand, but because it is one of the most common cancers seen in veterinary care, it is important to learn about it.

This type of cancer affects the lymphoid tissue of a number of organs, which is why it is so common. It can affect internal and external organs, meaning it may appear on the skin. This type of cancer is believed to be genetic in origin, but experts also believe that there are a number of environmental factors that may also play a role. Overexposure or sensitivity to chemicals, pesticides and over-vaccination are thought to play a role in lymphoma.

If your dog has lymphoma, symptoms can vary, depending on which organ the cancer is affecting. Peripheral lymphoma is the most common type, and is characterized by enlarged lymph nodes on the throat, just in front of the front legs and in the abdominal area or near the hind legs. If you are petting your pooch one day, you may feel these enlarged glands. When you bring your dog to the vet to get them checked out, the vet will use a needle to aspirate them or will have to do a biopsy of the tissues.

Aside from these lumps, you might also notice that your dog is lethargic, has lost weight, is vomiting or having diarrhea, coughing or having difficulty breathing. It may also have lost interest in its pet food.

Lymphoma is typically treated with chemotherapy, which is different depending on which part the cancer is affecting. Veterinarians have had success treating the disease with two pet drugs, Prednisolone and Chlorambucil.

There are also some holistic pet products you can use to treat cancer in your dog. Different dog foods and supplements may be helpful. Always discuss holistic options with your veterinarian or another animal specialist who is experienced with these types of medicine. Whole food supplements like Be Well Dog might be helpful because they contain plenty of antioxidants that fight off free radicals in your dog's body.

If you and your vet choose chemotherapy, you will want to make your pooch as comfortable as possible while it recovers at home. Consider blocking off a room with a Mission Aztec Freestanding Pet Gate and stocking the room with all of your dog's favorite toys and chews like Greenies. Even if your pooch seems too sick to enjoy these things, they might make it feel more comfortable when it does start to heal. 

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