Prostate Cancer in Male Dogs

Prostate cancer is characterized by unrestrained multiplication of cells lining the prostate gland. Prostate cancer can develop in dogs of all breeds, and in both neutered and unneutered dogs. However, according to Petwave.com, older dogs are more susceptible to the condition.

Symptoms

• The symptoms for prostate cancer develop gradually as it does not show any identification signs during the initial stages. However with progression, common symptoms include difficulty in urination, hematuria (blood in the urine), fatigue, fever, watery discharge from the penis and weight loss.

Identification

• A physical examination of the abdominal and rectal region, ultrasound and X-rays are some methods veterinarians commonly use to diagnose prostate cancer in dogs.

Treatment Options

• Treatment options for prostate cancer in dogs vary, depending on the stage at which the condition is diagnosed. However common treatment methods include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Prevention and Solution

• If you have no plans to use your dog in a normal breeding program, castration is one of the best preventive strategies against prostate cancer. Regular checkups by your veterinarian are also helpful. If your dog has been affected by prostate cancer, veterinarian checkups help in diagnosing the condition at an early stage.

Natural Remedies

• Herbs such as saw palmetto, nettle and echinacea are considered to be potent natural remedies against prostate cancer. These help in reducing the discomfort of your dog by shrinking the swollen prostate glands and relieving pain, according to Natural Dog Health Remedies. However, they do not cure the condition.