Sarcoma in dogs is transmitted to humans

What is osteosarcoma?

Bone cancer is the most common type of cancer in dogs. The disease accounts for up to 85% of malignant neoplasms in canines. The disease progresses rapidly and causes metastases early. Osteosarcoma is a malignant tumor that affects the bones of an animal. At the initial stage, the dog may experience mild pain and develop symptoms of rheumatism. Oncology can occur either against the background of existing osteomyelitis or without any prerequisites.

Veterinarians' prognosis for a favorable outcome is cautious. Much depends on how sensitive the tumor is to chemotherapy. Osteosarcoma of bone in dogs most often occurs in old age. Dogs of all breeds are susceptible to the disease, but it is more common in large animals. Osteosarcoma usually affects the bones of the extremities. The impetus for the development of oncology can be various factors, including trauma. Osteosarcoma can develop on any bone, but it most often affects a dog's paws.

What is sarcoma in dogs and how is it treated?

Some diseases in our pets can deprive us of peace for a long time, since when faced with a diagnosis of cancer, it is difficult not to panic. Sarcoma in dogs is just such a disease that prompts the owner to take active measures to seek qualified veterinary care.
Any malignant tumor, including sarcoma, has a favorable prognosis for the dog’s health when examined and treated by experienced specialized veterinarians

-
oncologists .
Such a specialist conducts an appointment at our veterinary office. Thanks to his experience and knowledge, the sick dog will be given the correct diagnosis , adequate treatment will be prescribed, and health and years of active life will be preserved.

With careful attention, the owner will notice many of the disturbing signs of sarcoma himself, because early contact with a doctor is the key to success in curing a pet.

What is sarcoma in dogs?

Malignant tumors can begin to grow from any “parent” tissue, so there are many different types of tumors localized in all parts of the body, from the skin to the bone marrow.

Even a little knowledge about the types of tumors and their possible locations will help you regularly examine your dog and identify pathologies in the early stages

, which is a key factor for successful cancer treatment.

This is especially true for owners of dogs who have crossed the ten-year mark, more than half of whom develop cancer.

Sarcoma in dogs is a malignant neoplasm that arises from connective tissue cells. Since this tissue is the most diverse and widespread in the body, sarcomas have many varieties

.

Sarcoma in dogs can take different forms

Sarcomas are classified based on what type of tissue gave them development:

1 Lymphosarcoma ( lymphoma ) is a common cancer pathology in dogs. The tumor is indiscriminate to the breed and age of the dog, but golden retrievers are most predisposed to it. The disease can be peripheral, developing in the external lymph nodes (under the jaw, knees, shoulder blades) and often does not manifest itself externally, except for the appearance of such signs as lethargy and decreased appetite in the animal. Internal lymphosarcoma has more severe symptoms, affecting internal organs and causing diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting and breathing problems. If you leave the dog without treatment, it will die within a month. 2 Osteogenic sarcoma is a common type of bone tumor in dogs. It is most often diagnosed in older dogs of very large breeds, affecting the long bones of the front and hind legs, and sometimes the bones of the skull and ribs. It is aggressive, develops quickly and requires surgery (amputation) followed by a course of chemotherapy. 3 Hemangiosarcoma is a neoplasm that grows from endothelial cells (lining blood vessels). It develops over time without pain or symptoms, affecting older dogs of any breed. In later stages, the tumor ruptures and, as a result, internal bleeding occurs. The dog has pallor of the oral mucosa, shortness of breath, and weakness. The tumor is mainly localized in the spleen, sometimes in the liver, heart and skin of the animal. Even after surgery and a course of chemotherapy, dogs live for about 7 months. 4 Soft tissue sarcomas are combined into one group with common features. They are made up of connective tissue and form on or under the skin, so they can be detected by owners as some kind of bumps and swelling. If these tumors are found, your doctor may recommend surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the location of the tumor and the stage of the disease. 5 Venereal sarcoma in dogs is a unique type of tumor, the only one of its kind, which is sexually transmitted from a sick dog to a healthy one. Dogs that mate uncontrollably get sick more often, since stray animals are a natural reservoir for transmitting this infection. The tumor is localized on the dog’s genitals, appearing not immediately after infection, but after 3-6 months of the incubation period. First, small pink nodules appear, which eventually merge and grow, forming a tumor up to 10 cm in diameter, resembling a cauliflower. It bleeds easily, the animal's genitals become inflamed and deformed, which may cause difficulty urinating. Sarcoma can also spread to the face, nose, or mouth of an animal, which naturally licks the tumor.

Veterinarians prefer to treat this disease with chemotherapy

, this is the most effective type of treatment to date. Surgery can lead to tumor recurrence (up to 65%) and damage to the urethra. Although some veterinary specialists are of the opinion that the operation is still not as dangerous as the toxic effects of chemotherapy.

Sarcoma in dogs - diagnosis

As we can see, sarcoma in dogs is a diverse cancer pathology, both in location and tissue type, so its symptoms can vary greatly.

Eat general signsoncological alertness:
• weakness, apathy, reluctance to play and communicate;
• loss of appetite or weight loss while maintaining appetite;
• vomiting, diarrhea alternating with constipation;
• unpleasant odor from the mouth;
• difficulty urinating and defecating;
• bleeding from the orifices of the dog’s body;
• enlarged belly;
• prolonged lameness;
• convulsions, seizures in an animal.

Specific signs of sarcoma are the appearance of swelling, nodules, non-healing ulcers and other neoplasms visible to the naked eye.

The presence of these symptoms requires immediate contact with a veterinarian

, who, if necessary, will redirect you to an oncologist who will conduct a thorough diagnosis of the body.

Sarcoma in dogs: tests and examinations

The doctor prescribes a general and detailed blood test and a urine test. Changes in the main indicators will eloquently tell about the pathological process in the body. Additional examinations are also carried out: x-rays, ultrasound, tissue biopsy.

Histology is used to identify the type of tumor and from what tissue it originated. Sometimes methods such as computed tomography, MRI, and endoscopy are required.

All this will allow the doctor to determine the type of tumor, the stage of cancer and choose the optimal treatment tactics.

Sarcomas in dogs - therapy

Sarcoma in dogs, like any malignant tumor, often requires a comprehensive solution

, the use of several methods. Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, and radiation.

It depends on the type of tumor

, its size and location, the presence of metastases in the lymph nodes, and so on. At an early stage, most types of sarcoma are treated surgically, often the result is secured with chemotherapy to avoid relapses and the occurrence of metastases.

There are tumors that respond well to radiation treatment.

In the later stages of cancer, the third and fourth, we are talking about palliative therapy to improve the dog’s quality of life and pain relief. If all else fails, then you may have to think about a difficult choice: continue to fight or euthanize your dog. A competent veterinarian will help you make the right decision.

Prevention of sarcoma and other tumors in dogs

Regular examinations and examinations by a veterinarian

still remain an effective measure for the prevention and early detection of cancer in animals, since tests and examination will tell a specialist much more than they will tell you.
Take care of your faithful friend, constantly examine him and do not ignore warning signs of ill health
.

Prevention of venereal sarcoma is the prevention of unwanted matings; if this happens, disinfect the dog’s mouth and genital area, monitor the external condition of these organs for several months in order to consult a veterinarian in time.

You can go to the veterinary with any problem and get advice from a specialist (more than 10 specializations), including an oncologist and a dermatologist.

Nowadays, cancer pathologies in dogs are becoming more and more common, so you should not turn a blind eye to the symptoms that bother you.

Today, sarcoma in dogs is treatable, and even if your dog is diagnosed with sarcoma, only a qualified veterinarian can give a prognosis for recovery and a few more years of life.

We have developed the service of providing veterinary care at home, as it is becoming increasingly in demand by our clients.

At a convenient time, the doctor will come to you and conduct an examination, some types of diagnostics and necessary medical procedures.

This reduces stress for the animal to a minimum, because no one likes to be treated, especially in an unfamiliar environment, other animals and smells.

You can find out prices for services and veterinary care by phone before the doctor arrives, and also receive a free consultation from a specialist. Our doctors love their work and their four-legged patients, and will do their best to help your dog recover!

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link:

Source: https://ya-vet.com/onkolog/sarkoma-u-sobak

Who is at risk?

Osteosarcoma is most often diagnosed in large breed dogs. Great Danes, Rottweilers, Shepherds, St. Bernards and Golden Retrievers are at risk. But veterinarians emphasize that there are no breeds that will necessarily develop the disease. In this case, much depends on the size of the animal. All large and giant breeds are at risk for the disease. Animals weighing 25 kg or more account for up to 55% of all cases of osteosarcoma in dogs.

In castrates, bone cancer is registered more often than in non-sterilized individuals. A study was conducted on osteosarcoma in dogs using Rottweilers as an example. The animals were divided into groups. In dogs that were neutered before the age of 1 year, osteosarcoma was detected more than 3 times more often. Scientists conducted a study in which they observed animals of different breeds. The results were the same - the development of osteosarcoma in sterile dogs occurs more often.

Causes of the disease

The factors for the development of osteosarcoma in dogs are still not fully understood. However, veterinarians have noted a number of circumstances in which the risk of bone cancer increases markedly. If the dog has previously been exposed to radiation or undergone chemotherapy for other diseases, the likelihood of osteosarcoma increases.

Trauma can lead to cancer. A fracture itself does not cause osteosarcoma, but if the damage was serious and did not heal for a long time, then there is a possibility of bone cancer. Animals that have implants or metal plates are at risk. A malignant neoplasm on the bone can occur against the background of osteomyelitis.

Cancer is most often diagnosed in older animals. Peak detection of the disease in dogs is after 5 years of age. Osteosarcoma mainly affects animals of large and giant breeds. Most often, the tumor affects long tubular bones.

About venereal sarcoma in dogs. Interview with an oncologist

March 31, 2014

The most important questions regarding a disease such as venereal sarcoma were answered by veterinarian, leading oncologist at the Biocontrol veterinary clinic, candidate of biological sciences Anna Leonidovna Kuznetsova.

— What is venereal sarcoma?

— This is a tumor that is transmitted primarily through contact (sexual) contact. There is an opinion that venereal sarcoma is not dangerous, but this is not true. In fact, the cells of this tumor have all the signs of atypia characteristic of malignant tumor cells. Transmissible sarcoma has a low metastatic potential. Metastasizes predominantly lymphogenously, to regional lymph nodes.

— How can animals become infected with it?

— The natural reservoir of the disease is stray animals that come into uncontrolled contact with each other. During contact, infection occurs due to mechanical transplantation of tumor cells.

- What animals does this occur in?

— This disease is typical for dogs. The disease is equally pronounced in both males and females.

— What are the symptoms of venereal sarcoma?

— If this concerns the development of pathology in the genital area, then, as a rule, it is hemorrhagic (bloody) or serous-hemorrhagic discharge from the genitals. Tumor growths are accompanied by secondary inflammatory processes, which can cause itching and anxiety in animals. Upon examination, tumor growths of the “cauliflower” type are determined - a loose formation that can reach quite large sizes, bleeding easily from contact. Often neoplasms can be multiple.

— Where else can venereal sarcoma be localized?

— Venereal sarcoma can occur not only in the genital area, but also in the eyes, mucous membranes of the mouth, nasal passages, and on the skin.

— What examination is necessary to undergo to make a diagnosis?

— As a rule, the diagnosis can be made by visual inspection of the affected area. But, like any other oncological diagnosis, venereal sarcoma must be confirmed using a morphological study. At a minimum, you need to undergo a cytological examination (imprint smears or puncture biopsy). During the initial examination, the animal must undergo an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity to exclude a metastatic process.

— How to treat a tumor?

— Treatment is chemotherapy. Typically, 3 to 6 procedures are required. Previously, surgical treatment, that is, excision of venereal sarcoma, was very popular, but now this method is not used due to the large number of local relapses. An alternative treatment may be radiation therapy.

— How can this disease be prevented?

— The simplest way of prevention is to avoid unwanted contact between a pet and stray dogs.

— What is the risk to the life of an animal with this disease?

“There is no serious risk to life with this disease, but the tumor can significantly worsen the animal’s quality of life. There is a certain risk during chemotherapy. But the regimens used for this disease are low-toxic, and the percentage of complications is low.

comments 72

Alina (13.01.2018 at 19:30): Hello, please tell me whether it gives metastases? My dog ​​has this disease, the tumor disappeared from the outside after the 4th injection of vincristine, no metastases were found during sterilization, but today the doctor claims that the tumor is growing from the inside. It is theoretically possible that the doctor is confusing the tumor with something else?

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Biocontrol (01/16/2018 at 15:58): Alina, hello! Venereal sarcoma does not metastasize, but it can grow like other tumors. Chemotherapy with vincristine can cure venereal sarcoma completely. We recommend that you show your dog to another veterinarian, preferably an oncologist.

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Svetlana (01/24/2018 at 09:40): Hello, please tell me whether it is possible to give birth to a dog after this disease (2 months have passed, female). Thank you.

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Biocontrol (01/24/2018 at 12:09): Hello, Svetlana! Yes, theoretically this can be done. In practice, our oncologists advise on the contrary, after curing venereal sarcoma, sterilize the dog. If you have any more questions, you can ask them directly to our specialists at the Bioforum, here:

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Svetlana (06/29/2018 at 04:23): Good afternoon. Can a 7 month old puppy (untied) have venereal sarcoma? Or is this another disease?

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Biocontrol (06/29/2018 at 13:13): Svetlana, hello! As our oncologists confirmed, if a puppy had contact (household) with an animal with this disease, he could get venereal sarcoma. If you have any additional questions, you can ask them directly to our oncologists on the forum, in the “Questions to an oncologist” section:

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Elena (07.27.2018 at 17:42): Hello! I have a question. The female is already pregnant, the male definitely has veins. sarcoma Will puppies be born with the disease?

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Biocontrol (08/06/2018 at 14:34): Elena, hello! It’s best to ask our oncologists directly about this question. This can be done on the Bioforum:

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Marysay (07/28/2018 at 10:42 pm): Hello, my girl underwent chemotherapy, can this affect others? The fact is that the cat began to vilify, and I have a very headache.

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Biocontrol (08/06/2018 at 14:35): Hello! No, chemotherapy cannot be toxic to other people or animals.

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Olga Vladimirovna Buryanova (08/11/2018 at 10:36 p.m.): Good afternoon. My dog ​​had a vensarcoma in the mouth. 5 chemotherapy treatments of vincristine and Cyclophosphamide were given. We finished it in March. But already in August the vensarcoma was growing again in the same place, relapsed. How could this happen? The doctor again suggests chemistry, but it seems to me that the doctor simply did not treat the vensarcoma. Now I don’t know what to do, should I do chemistry again, after 4 months. What can you advise?

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Biocontrol (08/13/2018 at 11:07): Hello, Olga Vladimirovna. It will be easier for you to discuss these questions directly with our oncologists. This can be done on the forum, in the “Questions to the oncologist” section, here:

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Olga Vladimirovna Buryanova (08/13/2018 at 11:51): Thank you. I wrote, I’ll be waiting.

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Nadezhda (10/23/2018 at 6:28 pm): Hello! I have a question. Can sarcoma in a bitch in the form of a tumor 5-6 cm in size resolve? Or does it pass on to other organs?

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Biocontrol (10.25.2018 at 11:11): Nadezhda, hello! Unfortunately, the sarcoma cannot resolve. It would be a great happiness if cancer went away on its own. Alas, no. If you have any questions, you can ask the oncologists of our clinic directly on the forum:

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Olga (04/16/2019 at 10:51): Good afternoon! Please tell me if a pet, while walking on the street, sniffs everything and sometimes licks the urine of other dogs, can it become infected with this virus?

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Biocontrol (04/18/2019 at 13:36): Hello, Olga! Yes, there is such a danger. The venereal sarcoma virus is highly contagious.

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Ekaterina (05/08/2019 at 01:43 pm): Good afternoon, we brought a dog with venereal sarcoma for mating (we were not told about this), the dog gave birth. We were given a puppy (1.5 months old) and his legs began to move in different directions, he was constantly shaking, we learned from the veterinarian that all the puppies from this litter died and only ours remained, but he has all the same signs as those. Tell me what this could be and is there a chance to save the dog?

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Biocontrol (05/13/2019 at 09:52): Ekaterina, hello! This condition is most likely not associated with venereal sarcoma. A puppy could become infected with sarcoma while passing through the birth canal, and the external manifestations of this disease would be noticeable. It is better to show the puppy to a veterinarian to find out the causes of his condition, since without examination and blood tests it is impossible to determine the cause. One of the assumptions is poor nutrition. If you feed your puppy natural food, immediately switch him to ready-made commercial food appropriate for his breed and age. With it he will receive the full amount of necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Be sure to show your puppy to a veterinarian. You can always ask questions about the health of your pets to the Biocontrol doctors directly on our Bioforum:

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Marina (05/14/2019 at 17:10): Hello. A female Jagdterrier has sarcoma. We carried out two courses of treatment with vincristine, it becomes easier, but time has passed and the disease is returning. Doctors recommended sarcolitine (but it was discontinued), vincristine can no longer be found, it is not on sale. Please recommend how else we can help our beloved friend

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Biocontrol (05/15/2019 at 09:12): Marina, hello! Consult our oncologists directly on this issue, here:

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Svetlana (07/23/2019 at 09:42 pm): Hello, we have a cocker, an 8.5-year-old female. A tumor appeared in the lower abdomen, the vulva was swollen. The tumor grew very quickly. At the veterinary clinic they diagnosed sarcoma. They did chemotherapy with vincristine. In the evening the tumor ruptured, About a glass of liquid, stinking pus came out. The hole was the size of a match head. After two days, it increased in diameter to 3 cm with jagged edges. Why is the hole growing?

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Biocontrol (07/24/2019 at 11:12): Svetlana, hello! It is better to ask questions about venereal sarcoma directly to our oncologists. This can be done on our Bioforum, in the “Questions to an oncologist” section, here:

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Tatyana (09.29.2019 at 14:53): Hello. Is sarcoma completely curable?

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Biocontrol (09/30/2019 at 16:37): Hello, Tatyana. If we talk specifically about venereal sarcoma in dogs, then chemotherapy with vincristine can completely cure this disease.

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Evgenia (10/17/2019 at 04:26): Hello, tell me what to do, I have a dachshund, 7.5 years old, 2 months ago, she ran away from us and apparently had a fight with someone, now this very one is sticking out of her tumor, the veterinarian said that it was a sarcoma and needed to be operated on, and then undergo chemotherapy. It has never happened to us...

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Biocontrol (10/18/2019 at 10:16): Evgenia, hello! As follows from the words of Anna Leonidovna, today we try not to use the surgical method due to frequent relapses, limiting ourselves to chemotherapy. But each case is individual, so you better consult our oncologists directly, here:

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Svetlana (09.11.2019 at 20:32): Hello. Please tell me how vensarcoma is diagnosed? The dog's vagina was probed at the veterinary clinic and the diagnosis was given. Is this possible?

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Biocontrol (11/12/2019 at 10:07): Svetlana, hello! The diagnosis of venereal sarcoma requires cytological confirmation. A swab is taken.

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Elena (12/11/2019 at 05:58): The dog was diagnosed with venereal sarcoma, after the second chemotherapy procedure, the dog died in terrible agony. Now I’m kicking myself for deciding to undergo chemotherapy. I lost my dog ​​and I only blame myself.

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Tatyana (12/17/2019 at 04:17 pm): Maybe a stupid question, but still... Is this disease not transmitted to people?! Our baby was diagnosed today. And we have a habit of kissing him on the nose.

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Biocontrol (12/18/2019 at 09:24): Tatyana, hello! The question is not at all stupid) But in the case of venereal sarcoma there is nothing to be afraid of. It is not at all dangerous to humans and it is impossible for humans to become infected with it. Moreover, pets of other species - cats, rabbits, hamsters and so on - are also not in danger. Only dogs are at risk.

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Tatyana (12/20/2019 at 4:15 pm): Thank you!

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Marine _ chemistry,

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Biocontrol (12/19/2019 at 09:27): Marina, you’d better consult our oncologists directly on this issue. This can be done on the Bioforum, in the “Questions to an oncologist” section, here:

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Olga (01/05/2020 at 14:32): Hello. They are asking to see my boyfriend for mating. During the conversation, it turned out that the “bride” had venous sarcoma about 1.5-2 years ago. They did chemistry. Are animals that have had this disease carriers for life or is there a possibility of a complete cure? What tests do I need to take to check my health? How to keep your pets safe? What is the prevention of this disease, other than controlling contact with stray animals?

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Biocontrol (01/09/2020 at 13:07): Olga, hello! We have forwarded your question to our oncologists, and they suggest discussing it here:

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Tamara (03/31/2020 at 09:19 pm): Our malamute’s name is Lucky. She is three years old. A year ago I gave birth. 11 healthy, beautiful puppies. Everyone was fed, vaccinated, given passports and given gifts. Now mom has problems. The first heat took place in December 2021. In February (24.02) 2021, heavy bleeding began again. They did an ultrasound and a smear test. The analysis did not show venereal sarcoma. What could it be? It's still flowing. Who can I direct my question to?

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Biocontrol (04/01/2020 at 11:11): Tamara, hello! Write in this section:

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Julia (31.03.2020 at 21:22): Good evening! The shepherd dog has venereal sarcoma, we have been treating him with vincristine for the 5th administration, the mammary glands have noticeably begun to heal, the lump on the face has completely gone away! Lost an eye! But this nasty thing began to appear under the other eye and closer to the butt near the spine! What to do and what to do! This is our favorite dog, a year and 2 months old!

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Biocontrol (04/01/2020 at 11:04): Julia, hello! It is better for you to consult our oncologists directly on this issue. This can be done on the Bioforum, in the “Questions to an oncologist” section, here:

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Anna (05/29/2020 at 11:55): Good afternoon! Vincristine is available in Moscow, today I ordered it for my dog, we are treating venereal sarcoma. Who needs a pharmacy phone number, write to e-mail

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Anastasia (05/20/2020 at 11:02): Julia, where did you purchase Vincristine? help me please! We can't find him anywhere!(((

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Anna (05/29/2020 at 11:58): Anastasia....write to me at...I’ll text you the phone number of the pharmacy where I ordered Vincristine today

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Svetlana (06/04/2020 at 09:15): Anna, tell me where to buy vincristine?

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Marina (05/07/2020 at 15:06): Good afternoon. Can a dog with veins? get pregnant with sarcoma, if so, how will this affect the offspring?

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Biocontrol (05/07/2020 at 18:35): Marina, hello. It is better to ask our oncologists directly if you have questions regarding venereal sarcoma. This can be done here:

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Anastasia (05/20/2020 at 10:59): Hello, can you please tell me where I can buy Vincristine? Since we can’t find it anywhere!!! We called all the pharmacies and no one has it! Is there an alternative with an analogue?

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Anna (05/20/2020 at 09:27 pm): Hello, is there an analogue of vincristine??? We also got a dog with vensarcoma. But vincristine is nowhere to be found.

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Anna (05/29/2020 at 11:56): Vincristine appeared in Moscow, I ordered it from the pharmacy today, I can give you the phone number of the pharmacy

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Irina (06/01/2020 at 06:43): Good afternoon. Tell me, please, is there a way to prevent vensarcoma? I have two dogs, a guy and a girl, both are sterile, but I read that there is a risk of becoming infected on the street, even by sniffing the urine of sick dogs. Now I'm worried.

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Biocontrol (06/01/2020 at 10:43): Irina, hello! On this issue, it is better for you to consult with our oncologists directly, here:

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Zhanna (06/08/2020 at 11:40): Please tell me, can a person become infected with vensarcoma from a sick dog?

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Biocontrol (06/09/2020 at 10:54): Zhanna, hello! No, he can not. This disease is species-specific; humans (and even cats) cannot get it.

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Anastasia (07/12/2020 at 08:32 pm): Hello, what medicine can replace Vincristine?

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Biocontrol (07/15/2020 at 16:07): Anastasia, hello! Consult our oncologists directly. This can be done here:

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Anna (07/19/2020 at 17:47): Hello! When receiving Vencristine chemotherapy for the first time, does the dog need to be fed before the procedure? And after the procedure, the dog is toxic to humans, it can be petted, since the dog is in contact with children and lives in an apartment? Thank you!

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souricoff (07/20/2020 at 14:49): Hello, Anna! On this issue, you better consult our oncologists, here:

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Elena (07/22/2020 at 1:54 p.m.): The dog was diagnosed with venereal sarcoma...chemotherapy...prescribed the drug Vincristine-Teva...they said look for it in pharmacies...but it’s not available in pharmacies and I found out that it’s still on prescription...What should we do...where buy it?

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Biocontrol (07/23/2020 at 15:34): Elena, unfortunately, we cannot tell you. Have to search. Try to consult with our oncologists about possible analogues, here:

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Elena (09.29.2020 at 12:03): Hello! My bitch was diagnosed with venereal sarcoma, a 2 cm tumor, my dog ​​is a 4 year old German Shepherd, is it worth doing chemotherapy?

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Biocontrol (09.29.2020 at 13:40): Elena, hello! Consult our oncologists directly. This can be done here:

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Seaa (01/14/2021 at 04:49): Hello. We found a dog. The loop and around the mark with neoplasms, there are wounds. They took me to the clinic. After a visual examination, they diagnosed me with oncology. And they said that we had to put him to sleep. They say it’s an aggressive form, it’s gone into metastasis and chemotherapy won’t help it. Please advise me how to do the right thing. Take him for a biopsy. Should I agree to undergo surgery or undergo chemotherapy? I’m not going to put him to sleep, but I don’t know what to do. How to do it all correctly so that illiterate doctors don’t ruin the dog. Thank you

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Biocontrol (01/14/2021 at 09:39): Sea, hello! Consult our oncologists directly here:

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Valery. (01/26/2021 at 06:54): Hello. Please tell me, is it possible to progress this disease to such an extent that it will be incurable?

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Biocontrol (01/26/2021 at 11:03): Valery, hello! Yes, of course, it is better not to start this disease (or any other). You can get more detailed information from our oncologists by consulting with them directly here:

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Svetlana (02/11/2021 at 10:32): Good afternoon, the other day a bitch was diagnosed with venereal sarcoma, and at our house a male dog had contact with her, namely, he licked her external genitals, can he get infected?

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Biocontrol (02/11/2021 at 13:20): Svetlana, hello! Yes, the likelihood of infection is extremely high, since vensaroma is a highly contagious disease.

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Svetlana Sinitsa (02/16/2021 at 06:06): Good afternoon, then how can you protect your pet other than isolation from the source of infection, maybe preventive measures, taking medications?

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Biocontrol (02/16/2021 at 11:07): Svetlana, as written in the article above, prevention consists of limiting contact with potentially infected dogs. You can consult with our oncologists directly about specific steps, on the Bioforum, in the “Questions to an oncologist” section:

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Irina Schastlivaya (26.02.2021 at 22:53): Hello. Please tell me, the dog, female, Alabai, 4 years old, has venereal sarcoma, we contacted an oncologist, since Busya, that’s the dog’s name, has a problem with the gastrointestinal tract, the doctor was the drugs doxorubicin or endoxan (tablets) are prescribed; vinristine is not advisable to use due to gastrointestinal disorders. We heard that the most effective treatment is vinristine, should we take the risk and drip vinristine or give it endoxan to drink. The dog is not ours, with a character, it will be problematic to put an IV .Please, tell me how contagious sarcoma is? There is different information everywhere, the dog is in a shelter, communicates with other dogs, no one got sick. We can continue communication or it would be better if there is no contact. Please tell us the correct treatment for our Busya. In advance Thanks a lot.

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Biocontrol (03/01/2021 at 11:55): Irina, hello! Venereal sarcoma of dogs is not dangerous for people, but for other dogs it is extremely contagious, so it is necessary to exclude contact of the sick animal with other pets. Those dogs who had contact with Busya must also be isolated, as there is a high probability of further spread of the disease. Regarding the use of drugs, it is better for you to consult with our oncologists directly here:

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Symptoms

The first sign of a malignant neoplasm is lameness. Moreover, it can either disappear or appear. Often the owner thinks that the pet has recovered, so he does not go anywhere. The disease progresses to a more severe stage, and the symptoms of osteosarcoma in the dog intensify. Lameness becomes permanent, sometimes the animal cannot even walk, in which case muscle atrophy is observed. The behavior of a dog with osteosarcoma changes, the owner usually notices this.

The tissue near the affected bone swells and thickens. Swelling may appear near this place. Later, the bone becomes deformed and during fractures, excessive mobility is observed. Metastases are usually found in the kidneys and liver. Palpation of the tissues surrounding the affected bone is unpleasant and even painful for the dog. In the final stages of the disease, the animal sleeps poorly and refuses to eat. The pain is so severe that it cannot be controlled by medications. If osteosarcoma has reached the last stage, then euthanasia will be recommended to the owners.

Symptoms of Bone Cancer in Dogs

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• Lameness, lameness
• Signs of pain, often severe
• Weakness
• Lethargy
• Swelling, usually in the legs, but may involve the ribs or spine
• Bone fractures near the site of the tumor
• Swollen jaws
• Difficulty eating
• Loss of appetite
• Signs of pain when opening the mouth
• Nasal discharge
• Respiratory distress

Diagnostics

If the owner suspects that his pet has contracted cancer, then he needs to go to the veterinary clinic. During an in-person examination, the doctor will ask questions about the symptoms your dog is experiencing. The veterinarian will pay attention to the condition of the bone and tissues around it, and then prescribe examinations.

An x-ray must be taken, from which the presence of a tumor can be determined. This method also detects the presence of metastases. A biopsy of fluid from the affected joint may also be ordered. The dog's blood must be taken for analysis. They may also take a biopsy from the central area of ​​the tumor. If the clinic has an MRI machine, it will greatly simplify the diagnosis. With its help, you can see the tumor and sometimes even find metastases.

If a dog exhibits spontaneous fractures, the doctor may suspect osteosarcoma. The disease causes the bones of the affected area to soften. In this case, the fractures will not heal, and the paw must be amputated.

How is the diagnosis carried out?

Diagnosis of osteosarcoma in dogs is aimed at classifying the detected tumor. And also determine the degree of its development. Urine and blood will definitely be examined. They give an idea of ​​the general health of the furry patient and are needed to adjust the course of treatment.

An x-ray is taken to rule out the possibility of a fracture, an infectious disease, and to determine the extent of cancer penetration into the bone and adjacent joints. On an x-ray, the affected bone will look as if someone had chewed it from the inside. X-rays are the best way to determine how far the tumor has spread to other parts of the body, particularly the chest and lungs.

A bone biopsy will be performed before treatment begins. It is needed to confirm the malignancy of the tumor or refute such a diagnosis.

Computed tomography is a more advanced way of visualizing the condition of bone and tumor compared to X-rays. It makes it possible to detect much more subtle changes. It also allows you to perform 3D modeling to help the oncologist determine whether it is possible to save the joint and paw. But unfortunately, this type of examination is not available in all clinics.

Classification of stages

Animals that are diagnosed with a malignant neoplasm at an early stage of development receive a more favorable prognosis. In this case, osteosarcoma in a dog is often cured. If the disease has entered the thermal stage, the animal is euthanized so as not to prolong its suffering. During training, veterinarians examine photographs of osteosarcoma in dogs in order to be able to diagnose the disease in its initial forms.

The following stages of the disease are distinguished:

1. The dog developed a malignant neoplasm, but it developed asymptomatically. There is no lameness or other manifestations. The pet behaves normally, the owner does not suspect that the dog is sick.
2. The tissues near the malignant neoplasm become inflamed and swollen. The dog behaves restlessly, the owner notices that it is in pain.
3. The animal develops spontaneous fractures that do not heal.
4. At this stage, the tumor begins to disintegrate and metastases occur. The limb swells and ulcers may appear on it. The animal loses its appetite, it looks lethargic and depressed.

Osteosarcoma causes metastases early, so it is best treated at stages 1-2. Often the animal is scheduled for surgery. Therapy depends on each specific case and the stage of the disease.

Treatment

The tactics to help an animal depend on its age, condition, stage of osteosarcoma, and the presence or absence of metastases. During treatment, close cooperation between veterinarians: surgeon and oncologist is important. After all, removing the tumor is often not enough; chemotherapy or radiation is necessary.

When treating osteosarcoma in dogs, the following regimen is used:

1. With the help of drugs, they reduce the tumor and fight small metastases.
2. An operation is performed to remove the malignant neoplasm. In some cases, it is combined with amputation of the affected limb. Sometimes large metastases are also removed during surgery.
3. Chemotherapy is carried out to suppress the growth of cancer cells that may remain in the dog's body.

The main task of veterinarians is not simply to remove a malignant neoplasm. Oncology must be stopped; the tumor must not return. It is also necessary to prevent the formation of metastases. Doctors are trying to make sure that after the operation the dog lives for at least another few years.

Recovery period

After surgery, animals die on average within 1-2 years. But among the patients of veterinary clinics there are also long-livers - such dogs, after treatment for osteosarcoma, delighted their owners for another 4-5 years. Immediately after the operation, a protective splint is put on the animal. If no complications are observed, then it is removed soon. The sutures are also removed, after which nothing prevents the animal from walking using the operated limb.

After the dog feels better, several courses of chemotherapy are prescribed. The owner should be prepared for the fact that in the next few months he will have to regularly visit the veterinary clinic. Only through personal contact will the doctor be able to fully evaluate the results of the work done.

Dogs who are left without a limb after surgery will have to get used to the cart or prosthesis. Over time, the animal will get used to it and will not experience problems. After a few months, the dog will run and play almost the same as before the operation.

Treatment of Bone Cancer in Dogs

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There are new veterinary technologies that involve removing only the cancerous part of the legs while sparing the rest, although there are some complications you should inquire about.

Veterinarians often use chemotherapy and radiation therapy in addition to surgery, but only if they can remove the primary tumor. Because bone cancer is very aggressive and easily metastasizes, it almost always spreads to other places, usually to the lungs. If this is the case, then additional treatment will be required.

Corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and anti-inflammatory drugs may provide some relief from pain and improve comfort. This is also an option for dogs that are not suitable for surgery.

Prevention

The mechanism of osteosarcoma is not fully known to doctors, so it is impossible to prevent its occurrence. But the owner can bring the pet at least once a year for a preventive examination. If a dog already has osteosarcoma, it can be detected at the initial stage.

If the animal begins to limp, its paw is swollen, or spontaneous fractures begin to appear, then there is no time to waste. Most likely, your pet is developing a malignant bone tumor. If treatment is started at the initial stage of the disease, the prognosis will be more favorable.