November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month, in keeping with a project launched by Veterinary Pet Insurance in 2005 to educate pet owners on the prevalence and management of pet cancer.
"Nearly a quarter of all pets will develop cancer, and the diagnosis and ensuing treatment costs may take pet owners by surprise," said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary medical officer for VPI. "Our goal is to educate pet owners that pet cancer is more common than they might realize. We want pet owners to be able to pursue optimal veterinary treatment for their pet, should their pet be diagnosed with cancer. More importantly, we want to empower pet owners in our mutual fight against pet cancer."
VPI claims data from 2006 reveals that the most common cancers in dogs were lymphosarcoma (a cancer affecting the lymph system), skin tumors and osteogenic sarcoma (bone cancer). Cats similarly suffered from lymphosarcoma and skin tumors, but showed higher rates than dogs for breast cancer and leukemia. Claims data from 2005 showed almost identical trends in cancer disease rates in pets. Combined cancer claims were the fourth most common canine and feline medical claims submitted in 2006.
The total number of canine and feline cancer-related claims in 2006 was 21,881.
"Successful treatment of pet cancer depends on early detection," said McConnell. "Routine physical exams are essential for every pet. Additionally, pet owners should regularly monitor pets for symptoms that could indicate a cancerous condition. Clinical signs of cancer include sudden weight loss, non-healing lumps or sores, an increase or decrease in appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, unusually strong bodily odors and/or exercise intolerance."
VPI Pet Insurance can help defray veterinary costs for testing and treatments should a pet develop cancer. Medical coverage also includes benefits for secondary conditions and complications related to cancer. For the remainder of the month, visitors to petinsurance.com will have the opportunity to purchase exclusive Pet Cancer Awareness dog collars, with all profits going directly toward advancing the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancers in pets and people.
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