Dog Skin Cancer - Essential Advice

Skin cancer is not only a danger in humans, it is also a big danger for dogs as well. It has been estimated that approximately 1 on every 200 dogs (or about 0.5%) will develop some type of cancer or have a tumor each year. The article below discusses what you should look out for and some precautions to reduce the chances of your dog getting skin cancer.

Skin cancer in dogs occurs due to too much UV rays reaching the dog (sunlight) and affecting the dogs DNA causing cancer. Dogs with light skin, bare patches, light pigment and certain breeds such as bull terriers are more at risk of developing a form of skin cancer than other dogs.

So how do you check your dog for skin cancer? First you should familiarize yourself with your dogs skin. Look and feel around the skin for any areas where the appearance has changed or where you can feel lumps that were not there before. You should also monitor your dogs behavior as if they appear tired, lethargic or are not eating it could be a sign of cancer. If you are at all concerned, always take your dog to the vet for a checkup.

Below is 4 tips to reduce the possibility of your dog getting skin cancer:

1) Apply Sunscreen - Sunscreen should be applied to the belly, underarms and nose as well as any other areas that have fair skin or are light in pigment.

2) Choose Appropriate Dog - When selecting a puppy or dog, if you live in a hot area choose breeds with dark pigmented skin and a longer coat.

3) Remove The Dog From Sun - If you are out at work all day, you should consider leaving your dog indoors and out of the UV rays. You should also try to not walk your dog in the middle of the day when the sun is at it's strongest.

4) Dog Vests - Clothes such as jackets and vests can minimize the effects of the sun, but often slip up, get torn or are played with by the dog. You should also not walk your dog in the middle of the day (between 9am-4pm) as this is when the sun is at it's most strongest.

If you examine your dog for skin cancer regularly, you will have more of a chance to defeat the cancer if caught early.

Dan Fletcher is the owner of PuppiesSale.org, featuring puppies for sale and puppy articles.