Cancer in Pit Bulls

[lipshipsattitude]

I have just been informed that one of Rory's uncles......(dog from a previous litter but from the same parents) has cancer. He is 7 years old and is in excellenet condition. He is going through chemo and its terribly exspensive so my question is......How prone are our dogs to cancer? Is it worth getting insurance? I asked my dad (you know how he is) and he said well if she gets cancer we'll just take her out back..............thats how he handles things, the old school way. Sure I'd hate for her to have to suffer and I always said IF anything like that happened I rather her be at peace but I'm finding thats easier said then done

[Michele]

I have insurance for my dog. My friends dog, he has cancer. It's going to cost him $3,000 to take his eye out. He's already spent a ton of money on medicines and specialists...He has no insurrance

[Scotsman]

For the most part most Pet Insurance Co. will drop you if your pet has a major medical problem, no joke.
I have a buddy that runs Poncho dogs and he says they usually don't last to long, hes had dogs die at 6-7yrs.
To be honest they don't treat cancer as aggresively in pets as they do humans, so the best they offer you is a few more months usually. I think it is pretty selfish to treat a dog with cancer, enjoy your time left with him then put him to sleep.

[Michele]

To honest they don't treat cancer as aggresively in pets as they do humans, so the best they offer you is a few more months usually. I think it is pretty selfish to treat a dog with cancer, enjoy your time left with him then put him to sleep.<!-- / message -->
I kind of agree with you but i'm not in that situation, so I don't know what I would do if I was.

[lipshipsattitude]

Yup, Doja is around 6-7 years old so it worries me plus the insurance is $30 a month!!!! If they would drop me if she got cancer that would defeat the whole purpose of me getting insurance AND if it only buys me a coupel of mnths AND she isnt her typical self........oh man it hurts just to think about it

[ChiaPit]

Maybe you could take the $30 and put it in a savings account and let it accrue interest so its there if you need it, but its not wasted money if you don't need it.

[CynthiaATL]

Maybe you could take the $30 and put it in a savings account and let it accrue interest so its there if you need it, but its not wasted money if you don't need it.I agree. How old is Rory? Just think about it. $30 a month equals $360 a yr. And it adds up. And is there in case you need it. I have a credit card just for my dogs. I only use it if they need it. In case something happens.

[lipshipsattitude]

I agree. How old is Rory? Just think about it. $30 a month equals $360 a yr. And it adds up. And is there in case you need it. I have a credit card just for my dogs. I only use it if they need it. In case something happens.Yea that does sound like a great idea........I would be enraged if I paid for insurance and they didnt cover her cancer......if she got it (knock on wood), she just passed her 2nd year in January. I wish we knew how dogs got cancer....or if there is even any specific causes becuase I pride myself on how well I take care of her

[SAM_I_AM]

I think a good question to ask would be, is cancer in dogs hereditary or not? If your dogs "uncle" (I would call that brother, since they have the same parents , just different litters) is an islolated incident and there are not any other signs in any of the other close relitaives then I would think that it was an isloated case and therefore not really worry about it too much.

[Michele]

Yea that does sound like a great idea........I would be enraged if I paid for insurance and they didnt cover her cancer......if she got it (knock on wood), she just passed her 2nd year in January. I wish we knew how dogs got cancer....or if there is even any specific causes becuase I pride myself on how well I take care of her
In my friend's case, his chihuahua is an applehead chihuahua. Appleheads come from bad breeding. Appleheads are prone to get tumors, which was what happened. Now, the dog's eye must come out. He's been on medication. He was on steroids which shrunk the tumor but the vet had to take him off of the steroids because it would have a negative effect, if used for a long time, on other parts of his body.

[lipshipsattitude]

I have NO CLUE as to the actual history of cancer in her lineage....i wish I did.

[CynthiaATL]

Yea that does sound like a great idea........I would be enraged if I paid for insurance and they didnt cover her cancer......if she got it (knock on wood), she just passed her 2nd year in January. I wish we knew how dogs got cancer....or if there is even any specific causes becuase I pride myself on how well I take care of herAt my clinic we recommend annual blood work (superchem/cbc). And the reason why is so that you can catch something early. Now it is not a guarantee. But say you got blood work done 1 yr and everything was normal. You have a baseline. Then when you brought her in for her annuals next year and you see her kidney levels are high.

Now usually you will not see clinical signs of kidneys failure till about 75% of the kidney function is gone.

And since you know that cancer may run in her line. At my clinic the cost is $55 for a Wellness Screen. IMO it is worth it if I can catch soemthing early.

[Michele]

At my clinic the cost is $55 for a Wellness Screen. IMO it is worth it if I can catch soemthing early. <!-- / message --><!-- sig --> I agree......

[lipshipsattitude]

At my clinic we recommend annual blood work (superchem/cbc). And the reason why is so that you can catch something early. Now it is not a guarantee. But say you got blood work done 1 yr and everything was normal. You have a baseline. Then when you brought her in for her annuals next year and you see her kidney levels are high.

Now usually you will not see clinical signs of kidneys failure till about 75% of the kidney function is gone.

And since you know that cancer may run in her line. At my clinic the cost is $55 for a Wellness Screen. IMO it is worth it if I can catch soemthing early.

Is catching it early aid in fighting it off......sorry if thats a stupid question and also at this young of age should I have her tested?

[CynthiaATL]

Is catching it early aid in fighting it off......sorry if thats a stupid question and also at this young of age should I have her tested?Cancer? Well if it is a growth you can get it before it spreads. But it all depends on what it is. last month we had a dog come in for a kennel cough vaccine (we give that every 6 months) and the Dr noticed enlarged lymph nodes that fast. Well the dog lymphoma(cancer of the lymph nodes) and by the next week we euth'd him. He went down that fast.

As far as Kidney and liver. Well if you catch some levels that or high you can monitor it and take the proper measure to treat/prolong life.

But it all depends on what it is.

I had Scrappy's bloodwork done at 1 yr old. And every year after that. He also is a canine blood donor.

It is up to you. You have to remember that they do age faster. And on an average it is 7 years . And because of that something can change in as little as months.

[lipshipsattitude]

Ok so its gonna be $102 for peace of mind....her appt is for friday. They said its not completley neccessary at such a young age however it does give a baseline to compare her future tests to, so we'll see how it goes!

[CynthiaATL]

Ok so its gonna be $102 for peace of mind....her appt is for friday. They said its not completley neccessary at such a young age however it does give a baseline to compare her future tests to, so we'll see how it goes!It is up to you. You can also see if they have a a smaller test that does not cost as much. Do they use Idexx or Antech for outside bloodwork? We use Antech And there is a Wellness Screen that is low cost and checks a few but important levels. Our charge to the public is only $55. But our full Screen CBC/SuperChem is $88.50. So ask questions and prices.

You are electing to do this. Get all the prices to all. Talk to your vet and have them explain the difference in the panels. You may not need a full panel.

Always ask questions and options. You are paying for them when you see the Vet. Take advantage of that. Make them work for it.

And yes you do not need it. But if all is good you will have a baseline when she is healthy to refer to if she gets sick.

[lipshipsattitude]

I always write down a list of questions before I take her in so I dont forget anything. I wanna see if they have a clue as to how prone she is if it runs in her family.I'm also curious to see how much she weighs.....my lil fatty but I chose to take the whole darn thing.....I have the money since I just got my income return so I might as well

[CynthiaATL]

I always write down a list of questions before I take her in so I dont forget anything. I wanna see if they have a clue as to how prone she is if it runs in her family.I'm also curious to see how much she weighs.....my lil fatty but I chose to take the whole darn thing.....I have the money since I just got my income return so I might as well
Get the best for your money. And sometimes that does not mean the higher priced test. She is healthy now.

I worked for a Vet that seemed irritated when people asked questions. (I ended up leaving that hospital) Because I feel that thats what Vets are there for to help educate owners. And do whats best for the animals. So make sure they are willing to help you. And that they answer all questions.

[lipshipsattitude]

Cynthia, thanks so much for all of your help. My dad is a real old timer and if he knew how much money or worry I put into my dog he'd flip his cookies! He loves his dogs but it was differnt in the old days

[CynthiaATL]

Cynthia, thanks so much for all of your help. My dad is a real old timer and if he knew how much money or worry I put into my dog he'd flip his cookies! He loves his dogs but it was differnt in the old daysYour Welcome. I just do not want you to spend more money than you have to for what you want to know.

You do not know how many times I whisper to owners that they can get something for less money. Like 3-V Caps get Fish oil for $3 instead of damn near $30. Or Benedryl or Chlorpheniramine for $5 instead of $20.

Thats why I say ask questions. Like can I get this at a Pharmacy for cheaper. Or is this available over the counter. You would be surprised how many are.

And remember that just because a dog related to her got cancer does not mean she will. So relax! :p

[coolhandjean]

I kind of share the same mindset of your Dad...If one of my Dogs got cancer or anything like that, then I would have to PTS.

[lipshipsattitude]

I kind of share the same mindset of your Dad...If one of my Dogs got cancer or anything like that, then I would have to PTS.I'm surprised you'd say something like that Jean, I considered you a big softie like me, ha ha. Really though, IF that day comes I know I can count on you all to not let me do something as selfish as try and keep her around long,I know my dad sure as hell wouldnt. Ah this whole thing is making me too sad

[coolhandjean]

I'm surprised you'd say something like that Jean, I considered you a big softie like me, ha ha. Really though, IF that day comes I know I can count on you all to not let me do something as selfish as try and keep her around long,I know my dad sure as hell wouldnt. Ah this whole thing is making me too sadLOL...well, Honestly, I probably couldn't do it myself, unless it was my only option. I'd have to have the vet or my boyfriend do it. lol....but it would be in the best interest of the dog. I wouldn't want it to suffer a few more months just so I can have it...I wouldn't worry about it too much. There is no guarntee your dog won't get it, but there is also no guarntee that your dog will get it, so just enjoy the time you have with your dog now, because it's the only chance you'll ever get, and it should be valued.

[CynthiaATL]

I kind of share the same mindset of your Dad...If one of my Dogs got cancer or anything like that, then I would have to PTS.
I agree completly when owners keep their dog around longer than needed. I think it is selfish.

There was this one time when the owner got an ultrasound and all this work against the Dr. advice. The Dr. told her that dog needed to be PTS.

But certain growths that may be malignant like mammory, or a growth on the body. I would have removed. Something that hasn't spread throughout the body.

But if the quality of life is not there I would euth.

[laurajean]

Well, the sad thing about owning pets is that they do not live as long as us. I have put several good dogs into the ground and it was sad to lose them. But I did enjoy the time we had together and gave them pretty good lives while they were still kicking. So try to enjoy the dog now and don't let the fact that it is not going to live as long as you worry you to death. And it is wise to do the health screening thing, but you got good advice from Cynthia. Shop around to get a good deal and blow the saved money on dog toys or something for you!

[14rock]

Don't fret about it. Look into your insurance policy, don't tell them anything, and give them any reason to drop it though. Just tell them you are intrested in the specific details of their plan, and study it.

I have always felt pet insurance was a scam, put the money into a dedicated dog fund and KNOW it's there if you need it. I always have money on hand for dogs, even a couple hundred not in the bank at all times. Banks aren't open on the weekends, keep cash on hand at all times. A few days waiting, is all it may take for the treatable case to be non-treatable and fatal.

Personally, I'd cash out that insurance fund, put it in a savings account, add to it every month, and quit fretting about hypotheticals now. There are countless emergencies which may happen and require euthanasia, no need to get worried about it now, you'll drive yourself crazy. Until that day comes, no matter what you say or think now, you will have to make your own decision.

[realonebulldog]

I have just been informed that one of Rory's uncles......(dog from a previous litter but from the same parents) has cancer. He is 7 years old and is in excellenet condition. He is going through chemo and its terribly exspensive so my question is......How prone are our dogs to cancer? Is it worth getting insurance? I asked my dad (you know how he is) and he said well if she gets cancer we'll just take her out back..............thats how he handles things, the old school way. Sure I'd hate for her to have to suffer and I always said IF anything like that happened I rather her be at peace but I'm finding thats easier said then done As long as she can run and has no non stoping pain let she live. If she has to much pain every day then put she to sleep.

[Patch O' Pits]

Cancer is a growing concern in canines in general. APBTs so not top the list of cancer dogs thank goodness but they are on the rise in it it seems. The environmental crap and BYBs don't help any of course

As for buying insurance, just make sure that you are actually covered for cancer. Some insurance companies make it look like you are covered for things when in actuallity they may consider APBTs or other purebred dogs more likely to get certain things and even though you are paying they don't cover them. There is a book they go off of for each purebred so make sure you check

With cancer the treatment options depend on what type of cancer and how early it is caught to wether aor not things are even done . Treatment is extremely outrageous in price and overall I found that they are pretty much guessing with most types what may ot may not even help. Not much different than what happens with human cancer IMO Chemo and radiation with dogs is to prolong lifde and not to cure the cancer in most cases

They are actually given many of the same drugs as humans, but not to the extent people are so side effects are not as severe

There are some good websites and also canine cancer groups on yahoo you should check for more info

Live each day like it is the last and enjoy what you've got. Don't stress about what may be

[Envy's Mom]

Well I actually had to put my girl down in January b/c she got Lymphoma Cancer. She was only a year and a half old. The vet was extremely suprised only because she is so young. She told me 1 of every 4 dogs will get Cancer, but not untill they are at an older age. It seems like its more common now that it used to be. But I will tell you know.. I love that dog and I did not want her to suffer. Cancer sucks and the animals hurt. Please don't make them suffer more that they have to. Its terminal and will eventually kill them. By not putting them down we only prolong the suffering. I still have nighmare of my baby falling on that table, but if I had to do it again I would because she would still be in bad pain had I not elected to end her suffering. RIP Envy I miss you baby girl!

[CynthiaATL]

Well I actually had to put my girl down in January b/c she got Lymphoma Cancer. She was only a year and a half old. The vet was extremely suprised only because she is so young. She told me 1 of every 4 dogs will get Cancer, but not untill they are at an older age. It seems like its more common now that it used to be. But I will tell you know.. I love that dog and I did not want her to suffer. Cancer sucks and the animals hurt. Please don't make them suffer more that they have to. Its terminal and will eventually kill them. By not putting them down we only prolong the suffering. I still have nighmare of my baby falling on that table, but if I had to do it again I would because she would still be in bad pain had I not elected to end her suffering. RIP Envy I miss you baby girl!
I am so sorry for your loss. At keast you did what was best. And I commend you for that. It was hard but you still did what was best.

[Patch O' Pits]

Well I actually had to put my girl down in January b/c she got Lymphoma Cancer. She was only a year and a half old. The vet was extremely suprised only because she is so young. She told me 1 of every 4 dogs will get Cancer, but not untill they are at an older age. It seems like its more common now that it used to be. But I will tell you know.. I love that dog and I did not want her to suffer. Cancer sucks and the animals hurt. Please don't make them suffer more that they have to. Its terminal and will eventually kill them. By not putting them down we only prolong the suffering. I still have nighmare of my baby falling on that table, but if I had to do it again I would because she would still be in bad pain had I not elected to end her suffering. RIP Envy I miss you baby girl!I'm so very sorry for your loss! I lost My Sock-M at 2.5 years to cancer too this past Oct. The sweetest, strongest, biggest heart lil gal I'll ever know. She fought cancer until the end and I wish now looking back I would have put her down instead of trying to help her fight it. It was hard and I spent thousands that I didn't have just to try and save her. I still cry over losing her daily. I miss her so much. Add on top of the grief the bills I still have and it makes it so much worse

cancer knows no mercy