Dogs with osteosarcoma find it hard to walk and run due to excruciating pain on the limbs. This form of cancer usually affects the bone, especially bones of the limbs. Its cause is unknown but has some risk factors. Going through this guide will help you understand osteosarcoma better, its causes, treatment and life expectancy.

Content:

  1. Understanding Osteosarcoma in Dogs
  2. Recognizing the Signs and Diagnosis
  3. Progression, Treatment, and Prognosis
  4. Conclusion

Understanding Osteosarcoma in Dogs

Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer in dogs. The primary cause of osteosarcoma is unknown, but there is speculation that it is caused by some risk factors. For instance, larger breeds such as the Great Dane and Greyhounds are said to be more predisposed to this condition because of their fast growth rate and large size.

There are numerous risk factors to consider when it comes to osteosarcoma in dogs. They include:

  • Genetics
  • Radiation
  • Breed disposition
  • Leg injury
  • Neutering
  • Chemical carcinogens
  • Fast growth rate
  • Bone transplant
  • Age
  • Bone infection (osteomyelitis)

These factors may not be the specific cause of osteosarcoma in dogs but are possibly contributing factors to it in dogs. For example, old age could predispose dogs to this condition due to mutation of bone cells over a prolonged period of time.

Trauma to the leg could also be a leading factor in osteosarcoma in dogs. Dogs should be supervised and not left to wander off to avoid injury. To do this, use the Petcube Cam 360 to supervise your dog’s activities. With live footage from the Petcube Camera, you can help protect your dog from mishaps and accidents.

Recognizing the Signs and Diagnosis

Signs of osteosarcoma are evident in the gait of the dog. How the dog moves and walks could tell if there is something wrong with the limb. Going up the stairs becomes hard, with limping and pain when touched on the legs.

Here are some of the common signs of osteosarcoma in dogs:

Diagnosing osteosarcoma in dogs starts with history. The history would include details of what type of symptoms were observed at home, when it started and how bad it was. After which physical examinations are carried out, followed by a series of lab tests.

For a definitive diagnosis, X-rays are done on the affected limb. A classical sun-burst pattern should be observed. This pattern shows an outward growing tumour, pushing the bone outwards. Veterinarians would further carry out a bone biopsy procedure and needle aspirate to ascertain if it’s really osteosarcoma.

Progression, Treatment, and Prognosis

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive form of cancer and has a fast progression in dogs. It may begin in one bone as a benign cancer and progresses into a chronic form.

In osteosarcoma, bone tissues are destroyed and progressively metastasizes into other bone structures and soft tissues like the lungs. Research has proven that 80% of death cases in osteosarcoma were due to lung metastasis in dogs.

In my experience, osteosarcoma metastasis deteriorates the health of the dog faster than the condition itself. When osteosarcoma are reported on time, chances of having a good prognosis is high.

“How well treatment works on osteosarcoma will depend on the extent of spread by the time it is reported”, - Dr. Wendy Brooks

Due to the nature of this condition, osteosarcoma usually has a poor prognosis. Dogs are oftentimes presented in the clinic at late stages of the condition, making it hard to have a good prognosis.

“Due to the aggressive nature of osteosarcoma, amputation could be a good recommendation because it provides a better life expectancy”, - Reddit User

Chemotherapy alongside procedures like palliative radiation therapy have proven by studies to provide about 75% relief in dogs and help manage the condition.

Chemotherapy could be financially demanding. To help manage the cost, sign up for the Petcube Emergency Fund and enjoy up to $3000 in vet fees coverage and a 27% discount when you register now using the exclusive link.

In severe cases, chronic osteosarcoma will require amputation of the limb. Although this greatly reduces the quality of life of the dog, impedes its every day activities, but helps prevent spread and gives it a better shot at life.

Conclusion

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive cancer condition in dogs which usually affects the limbs but can be found in other bones like the Jaw. Its symptoms are evident in the limbs such as limping, pain and swelling. Although osteosarcoma has a poor prognosis, with chemotherapy and pain medications, early stages of osteosarcoma in dogs could be managed.

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