With one in three Australian dogs and cats affected by cancer in their lifetime, Petbarn North Lakes is joining forces with Greencross Vets this November for National Pet Cancer Awareness Month to provide pet owners with advice on early detection.
It may come as a shock to many pet owners but sadly, cancer is one of the major causes of deaths in pets and can be triggered by a variety of factors – some known and others unknown.
Local Petbarn North Lakes Store Manager, Bec Lill says: “Pet Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect reminder of the need to understand the key warning signs to keep an eye out for, and the importance of regular vet check-ups.”
Dr Rachel Chay, Chief Veterinarian from Greencross Vets notes the answer to overcoming the disease lies in early detection and urges locals to keep an eye out for key indicators.
“A watchful eye is rewarded. You can check your pet by running your fingers through their coat, lightly starting with the head, back, sides, down the legs, chest and belly. Noticing changes in your pet’s appearance, including the presence of lumps and bumps on their coat, can lead to early diagnosis and successful treatment,” says Dr Chay.
“There are a number of behavioural changes to also look out for including chronic weight loss, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, unexplained bleeding, coughing, difficulty breathing or eating, oral odour, changes in bathroom habits and non-healing wounds.
“If your pet is exhibiting any of these symptoms, we recommend that you visit your local vet and have your furry friend examined as soon as possible. Often, the earlier the diagnosis is made, the greater range of options you’ll have to help your pet,” Dr Chay says.
You can reduce the risk of cancer developing in your pet through scheduling regular health check-ups with your vet, visiting more frequently as your furry friend gets older, examining your pet’s body for any lumps and bumps and ensuring your pet maintains a healthy weight through a balanced diet.
Veterinary care comes at a cost, and if your pet needs emergency treatment due to cancer, you could be looking at a bill for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Taking out pet insurance is one way for Narangba pet owners to protect their finances while making sure the furry members of the family get the care they need.
“Petbarn Pet Insurance covers up to 80% of your vet bills, so Narangba pet owners won’t have to make difficult decisions if their pet needs expensive treatments that they wouldn’t be able to afford on their own. Petbarn Pet Insurance is peace of mind that pet parents can provide their furry friend with veterinary treatment when the unexpected happens,” Petbarn North Lakes Store Manager, Bec says.