Mesothelioma Cancer In DogsOne fairly new form of cancer that affects both humans and animals is Mesothelioma, which is a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. In dogs as in human beings, the mesothelium is the tissue lining of the chest cavity, and this is where the cancer is usually located. Asbestos particles become lodged internally and create a tumor in the mesothelium, lungs, pericardium, or elsewhere. Canine owners usually find out that their dog has "meso" cancer when one or more of the following symptoms are present: •abdominal discomfort •respiratory distress - painful, difficult breathing or shortness of breath •abnormally rapid breathing •cough •exercise intolerance •difficulty moving The presumed cause of this canine cancer is the same as for humans, the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos cancer particles. In contrast to humans, though, dogs may get this from licking asbestos fibers off the ground or even off their human owners, who may have brought the asbestos home from their worksites. Dogs can also be exposed to toxic asbestos fibers when they are in the midst of a renovation of their home. Millions of older residences in the U.S. have asbestos components such as drywall, insulation, and bricks, and when the asbestos is disturbed in a renovation (or simply deteriorating from age), a dog may inhale or ingest the loose, airborne fibers. Dogs that roam a neighborhood freely may also encounter asbestos at a construction site, or even simply in the air in towns that are near an asbestos mine or a shipyard. If you think that your dog might have canine mesothelioma, take your pet to a veterinarian for testing and treatment. You can also contact cancer treatment centers for assistance in locating a veterinarian who is familiar with "meso" treatment for dogs. For more information, please visit
Meso Treatment Centers.
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