Canine Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a common type of cancer that can occur in both humans and dogs. In dogs it results from unregulated growth of malignant lymphocytes (tumor) that affects lymph nodes, bone marrow, liver , spleen, eyes, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Dogs may simply seem depressed, lethargic, vomiting, losing wight, losing fur / hair , febrile, with a decreased appetite. Lymphoma is diagnosed with diagnostic lab work and an aspirate of the lymph nodes. 

Early Signs of Canine Lymphoma include:

• Enlarged lymph nodes (may be seen in one or all regions- under jaw, in the chest region, armpits, behind the knees, groin)
• Weight loss
• Inappetance, anorexia
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or black, tarry stool
• Fever
• Conjunctivitis – eye infections
• Lethargy, depression
• Reclusive behavior
• Loss of fur or hair
• Increased water consumption
• Increased urination

The most common treatment for canine lymphoma includes chemotherapy. There is no known cure but with good therapy the canine can survive around 9 months to a year longer. Your vet should be able to help you with your questions and making a decision of what to do. Another group that can help is CLEAR that helps bring awareness to the issue of canine lymphoma. 

Recently starting just a few years ago individuals started to help draw awareness to Canine Lymphoma. The first campaign started when a well known and respected dog trainer and competitor Terry simmons had his beloved dog diagnosed with Lymphoma in 2011. There was just not enough information , let alone accurate information to allow him to help make choices for his dog that was considered family as well. Out of the grief for his own dog Simmons created CLEAR (canine Lymphoma Education Awareness and Research). The hope is that dog owners will know their options and feel empowered to advocate for their four legged family member.