Lymphoma in dogs

Lymphoma in dogs is a form of cancer that impacts the lymphatic system, a crucial component in the body's defense against infections. This type of cancer mainly attacks lymphocytes, which are white blood cells and part of the immune system. It commonly appears in organs like lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, and the intestinal tract. In some rare instances, it can also affect other areas of the body such as the skin, eyes, or nervous system.

Regardless of age, lymphoma can have serious implications and may lead to severe health complications if left untreated. Early detection and appropriate management are essential for the well-being of affected dogs.

Types of Lymphoma in Dogs

Dogs can develop over 30 types of lymphoma, each with its own characteristics in terms of spread rate, symptoms, and prognosis. When diagnosed with lymphoma, veterinarians typically classify the condition into one of four main types:

• Multicentric lymphoma: This is the most common type and it primarily involves the enlargement of lymph nodes throughout the body.

• Alimentary lymphoma (also known as gastrointestinal lymphoma): Less common and this type affects the gastrointestinal tract including the stomach and intestines.

• Mediastinal lymphoma: This rare type involves the enlargement of lymph nodes in the chest, specifically in the mediastinum, which can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing due to pressure on the lungs.

• Extranodal lymphoma: This refers to a type of lymphoma that impacts organs and tissues beyond the lymphatic system. It can appear in different areas such as the skin (cutaneous lymphoma), eyes, kidneys, and central nervous system.

In general, the various types of lymphoma in dogs are classified according to the specific body areas where the cancerous cells originate. Each type may exhibit unique symptoms and require tailored treatment approaches.

What are common symptoms of Lymphoma in dogs?

Common symptoms of lymphoma in dogs consist of swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, fatigue, vomiting, reduced appetite, breathing difficulties, and swelling in the face or legs. Depending on the specific type of lymphoma and the organs involved, other symptoms may include diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, skin abnormalities, and coughing. Cutaneous lymphoma might manifest as red, itchy skin patches that develop into thick, moist sores, often alongside lumps. If any of these signs are noticed, it is advisable to seek a veterinary evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How is Lymphoma managed in dogs?  

In dogs, lymphoma is usually treated with chemotherapy to shrink tumors or stop them from growing, with the goal of achieving remission. Luckily, most dogs handle chemotherapy well, with minimal side effects such as occasional vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite. If chemotherapy is not possible, palliative care using prednisone may be an option. Depending on the type of lymphoma, additional treatments like surgery or radiation therapy may also be suggested.

What is the prognosis for dogs with Lymphoma?

Navigating the prognosis for dogs with lymphoma can be challenging, as it hinges on factors such as the cancer type and stage, along with the chosen treatment approach. Without intervention, dogs typically survive for four to six weeks on average. With chemotherapy, remission can last around eight to nine months, with an average survival time of about one year. However, each dog is unique, and some may live longer or shorter than these averages. 

Despite treatment, relapse is common and can be more resistant to treatment, ultimately leading to a fatal outcome. It's crucial for pet owners to engage in open and honest conversations with their veterinarian regarding their dog's prognosis, allowing them to make the best decisions for their beloved pet's well-being.

Management tips for dogs with Lymphoma

At-home needs include:

• Keep your dog comfortable and provide them with a stress-free environment.
• Monitor their appetite and ensure they are eating a balanced diet recommended by your vet.
• Administer any prescribed medications as directed by your vet.
• Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep your dog's spirits up.

For end-of-life care:

• Discuss end-of-life care options with your vet, including pain management and euthanasia if necessary.
• Consider creating a comfortable and peaceful environment for your dog's final days.
• Spend quality time with your dog and provide comfort and support as needed.
• Evaluate your dog’s quality of life with our scoring tool, here

In a crisis:

Immediately contact your vet if your dog experiences any new or worsening symptoms, such as changes in appetite, difficulty breathing, or signs of discomfort, as prompt attention can help ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.

It is vital to begin end-of-life care discussions before your dog‘s condition becomes unmanageable, or they begin losing their quality of life. 

Don’t wait until the very end. It’s important to consider your pet’s end-of-life journey early, so that you, your family and your pet are all supported through the process.

When the time comes, we’re here for you. Goodbye Good Boy provides a range of end-of-life services to make the difficult process of saying goodbye a little easier. 

We offer quality of life assessments from qualified vets, specialist grief counselling, at home euthanasia from dedicated end of life veterinarians, as well as cremation services and memorial options to help remember your pet for their unique character.

We are with you at every step of the journey.

To find out more, you can call our team of passionate pet lovers on 1800 953 619.

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