Cancer and Your Older German Shepherd|The Older He Gets, The Greater The Risk

For the past ten years, your loyal German Shepherd has been more than just a pet; he has been a beloved family member and your closest companion. Recently, however, you've noticed alarming changes in his behavior. He no longer devours his meals with enthusiasm and seems to lack energy, often lounging around instead of joining you on adventures.

Though you initially attributed these signs to his advancing age, the situation doesn’t improve after a week of close observation. Concerned for his well-being, you decide to take him to his trusted veterinarian for a thorough examination and diagnostic imaging.

The diagnosis hits like a freight train: cancer. Such news can be devastating for anyone who loves their dog deeply. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty in this moment. However, it is crucial to set those fears aside and educate yourself about the condition—knowing your options for prevention, treatment, and what to expect moving forward can empower you both during this challenging time.

Cancer is the number one cause of death in our fur friends, with approximately 6 million diagnosed annually. That's one in every four dogs. I don't know about you, but I find that number to be not only shocking but appalling as well.

Statistically speaking, the chances of an older German Shepherd being diagnosed with cancer at some point in time are high since the breed, in general, is unfortunately prone to certain types of cancer. Furthermore, the probability of developing cancer increases by 50% once a German Shepherd becomes geriatric, around ten years of age, with about half of them succumbing to cancer.

In this blog post, we'll dive deep into what causes cancer in our distinguished fur friends, the most common cancers in older German Shepherds, treatment, and steps you can take to help prevent your older German Shepherd from getting cancer.

What is canine cancer?

Cancer is a disease caused when cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues.

What causes Canine Cancer?

• Genetics

• Environmental factors

• Diet and lifestyle,

• Overuse of vaccines

• Certain viruses

Most Common Types of cancer in older German Shepherds:

• Hemangiocarcinoma (malignant tumors derived from the cells lining in the blood)

• Osteosarcoma (accounts for 85% of all skeletal tumors)

• Lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system accounts for 24% of all new cancer cases)

• Mast Cell tumors (most common skin tumor)

12 Signs of Cancer

1. Swelling that doesn't go away and gets worse

2. Unexplainable limping or stiffness that doesn't go away

3. Sores that don't heal

4. Weight loss

5. Not wanting to eat (GI upset)

6. Trouble eating

7. Abnormal bleeding

8. Loss of stamina/lack of energy

9. Unusual odor

10. Difficulty breathing/persistent cough

11. Excessive drinking

12. Trouble eliminating

How is canine cancer treated?

Each type of cancer requires a specific treatment plan. Treatment may include one or a combination of the following treatments:

• Surgery

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation

• Immunotherapy

After the type of cancer has been identified, the next step will be to discuss the cancer stage (how extensive and how far the cancer has spread). If treatment is an option, determining if your older German Shepherd is well enough for treatment is the next step, along with approximately how much treatment will cost. Once you agree to proceed with treatment, your veterinarian will give details about the treatment plan, or she will refer you to a board-certified oncologist for treatment.

If cancer has progressed to the point where treatment is no longer beneficial, your fur friend is in great pain, or the cost of treatment is not within reach, euthanasia may need to be considered immediately or in time. It's sad to say, but sometimes this is the reality.

Canine cancer survival rate:

Survival depends on the type of cancer and the response to treatment. That being said, longer survival rates are favorable if the cancer is caught early and not an aggressive form of cancer. Prevention:

• Eliminate as many chemicals from your older German Shepherd's indoor/outdoor environment as possible, No secondhand smoke, and limit topical pesticide treatments

• Do not over-vaccinate. Request a titer test instead.

• Feed human-grade, whole foods instead of commercial dog food as much as possible.
  

• Provide your older German Shepherd with an active, fulfilling lifestyle.

• Do regular wellness checks with a trusted veterinarian.

Final words: My final words on this subject are brief: the best way to help your older German Shepherd live his best life is to avoid cancer altogether by being proactive about his health and well-being. Still, if he should end up with cancer, then the next best thing you can do for him is to follow the advice of your veterinarian and be with him every step of the way, regardless of how much time he may or may not have.

Remember, dogs live in the moment, and their moments are brief. We, as senior German Shepherd parents, owe it to our fur friends to be completely present for them as they fight the battle within.

To listen to the coinciding podcast episode, click on the link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1771634/9572249

***** Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.