Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare and Cancer Screening

Cancer is the leading cause of death in older dogs. Screening approaches including regular examination and cancer biomarker testing enable earlier detection and better welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Cancer accounts for nearly 50% of deaths in dogs over 10 years
Regular veterinary examination can detect palpable tumours before clinical signs
Liquid biopsy cancer screening tests are in development for early cancer detection in dogs
Breed-specific cancer risks inform targeted screening in predisposed breeds
Early detection typically enables less aggressive treatment with better welfare outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Cancer screening enables earlier detection when treatment is most effective and welfare-preserving. Regular veterinary assessment combined with emerging cancer biomarker tests will transform early cancer detection.

What You Can Do

Schedule regular veterinary health checks that include cancer screening examination
Learn breed-specific cancer risks and inform your vet of these at checks
Ask your vet about emerging cancer screening test options
Check your dog regularly for lumps and seek prompt assessment for any new masses