sweet dog, in spite of her name. However, Princess has a tumor the size of a soft ball hanging from her underside. The first time I saw it, I wanted to grab Princess and rush her to the nearest pet emergency clinic. I’d never seen anything quite like the huge bumpy mass that accompanied the small fuzzy dog. But, the tumor didn’t seem to bother Princess. My aunt said the vet claimed the tumor didn’t hurt anything and Princess was perfectly healthy otherwise. Not wanting to seem too concerned, I waited until I was safely inside my car, on my way home, to scream. Once I arrived at my house—my throat, so sore from the yelling that I couldn’t call talk to anyone about the hideous growth –I began to investigate the whole “enormous tumor that doesn’t hurt anything scenario.” I found out that tumors are divided into two categories, cancerous and non-cancerous. Most cancerous tumors are either mastocytomas, originating on the skin from mast cells;malignant melanomas originating from the oral cavity, skin, and digits; or fibrosarcomas, tumors originating from the ribs, spine, skull or pelvis. These cancerous or malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body. Thyroid tumors like mammary tumors can be benign or malignant. About half of all mammary tumors are benign. Changes in the thyroid of cats are almost always benign while those to the thyroids of dogs are usually malignant neoplasias. Older, larger dogs are more likely to have thyroid tumors. Non-cancerous tumors or benign tumors do not spread and include lipomas or fatty tumors, usually under the skin; osteomas, tumors of the bone; chondromas, originating from cartilage; hemangiomas in the spleen; and histiocytomas which are common skin tumors. Non-cancerous tumors can become dangerous if they grow and exert pressure on vital organs. Diagnoses of tumors can be easy as a thorough physical exam and history to more extensive and invasive testing. Cells from the tumor may need to be examined; needle aspiration of the mass and adjacent lymph nodes may be necessary or even removal of the entire tumor. X-rays or MRIs of the suspect area may be necessary. An abdominal ultrasound may also be required for masses in the spleen or liver. Blood tests to evaluate cell and platelet counts and signs of inflammation may be useful. Blood serum tests may be required to evaluate other body systems that may be affected. A blood smear called a “buffy smear” to look for circulating mast cells might be performed. Fine needle aspiration of bone marrow or the spleen for cytological surveys may need to be done also. The surgical removal of a skin tumor followed by its biopsy can be curative in many cases. I found out that lipomas, or fatty tumors under the skin are usually not dangerous and may be left or removed. This must be what Princess had. I felt somewhat relieved, but the appearance of Princess’s tumor still bothered me. Other benign skin tumors, like histiocytomas, have been known to go away on their own. Some mast cell tumors may need to be treated with radiation and/or chemotherapy and/or surgery. Mast cell tumors make up about 20% of all tumors. Dogs, around the ages of eight or nine, are most at risk for mast cell tumors. Certain breeds like boxers, Boston terriers, bull terriers, bullmastiffs, English setters and golden retrievers are more prone to mast cell tumors. Males and females are equally affected. Pets that must have surgery to remove tumors may benefit from natural ingredients like Arnica and Calendula during their recovery. Keeping your pet healthy may even prevent some types of tumors. Echinacea purpurea is known to be a significant immune booster. I also learned that a healthy lifestyle might discourage many types of tumors. Basic things like exercise and weight control can help. Too much sun can cause tumors on the eyelids, ears, and nose, especially in light colored pets. Early spaying may reduce some tumors like mammary tumors; and testicular tumors can be reduced by neutering. Things that are bad for humans like pesticides and cigarette smoke are also bad for animals and can encourage tumor growth. Chemicals like sodium pentobarbital and ethoxyguin are toxins found in some commercial dog foods and suspected to cause the type of abnormal cell growth found in tumors. Practical healthy habits like brushing your pet’s teeth can also alert you to any abnormal oral tumors that might develop, and supplementing your pets diet with natural vitamins (dandelion is a good source of antioxidant vitamins), as they get older, can ensure they are receiving enough vitamins and minerals without ingredients they don’t need like magnesium stearate (found in synthetic supplements).
researcher Sheli Ellsworth Related Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies |
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