The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the ACVIM Foundation and the Chase Away K9 Cancer campaign are asking dog owners to celebrate National Dog Day on Thursday, Aug. 26 by pledging to check their pet for signs of cancer, including lumps, bumps and swellings. Thereafter, dog owners are urged to take 10 minutes on the 14th of each month to check for cancer signs from head to tail. The 14th was chosen to honor the birthday of Chase, a black Labrador retriever born Sept. 14, 1999, who died in 2006 of nasal carcinoma. Chase was Cera Reusser’s inspiration in forming Chase Away K9 Cancer. “One in three dogs will develop cancer,” said Reusser, of Warren, Ore. “Early detection may affect treatment and prognosis.” The ACVIM encourages dog owners to keep a record of any growths, watch for unusual behavior and schedule a follow-up exam with a veterinarian if anything suspicious or worrisome is found. Dog owners can sign up for monthly reminders by “liking” Chase Away K9 Cancer on Facebook. Campaign flyers can be printed at ChaseAwayK9Cancer.org.
