It’s scary to know that canine cancer treatment costs are about the same as human cancer treatment costs. However, there are far fewer drug treatments specially targeted for dogs. Thankfully, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration have announced the approval of three new drugs to help dogs fight cancer.
The usual practice for the treatment of canine cancer has always been to use drugs that were approved for use in people. However, these new drugs are specifically designed for pets. They are Palladia, for the treatment of mast cell tumours, Kinavet-CA1, also for the treatment of mast cell tumours, and Paccal Vet-CA1, for the treatment of mammary carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Unfortunately, there are no FDA-approved drugs to treat feline cancer at the moment.
Signs and symptoms of canine cancer include a lump or bump, or wound that doesn’t heal; swelling; abnormal bleeding; changes in appetite and bodily function behaviour (peeing, pooping, sleeping). The dog’s emotional state will also be withdrawn and irritable. If you notice these signs, take your dog to see his vet immediately. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.
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