Unexplained cysts and tumors on dogs are not uncommon for you to find. In fact, most owners will notice some sort of a growth on their pet's body at some point over the course of his lifetime. Nearly all of these growths are non-cancerous. There are, in fact, several different types of cysts and growths that can develop, from benign cysts and fluid pockets to pimples and warts and, in a few cases, to malignant tumors and cancers. The key to dealing with your pet's issue is to be aware of the situation as early as possible by giving him frequent examinations at home. Simply check on your pet's body for signs of growths and lumps. If you notice anything, take it to your veterinarian for further examination.
Following a physical exam, your vet may determine that more information is needed to confirm whether the growth could be malignant. In these cases, blood tests and biopsies are usually performed. If you do determine that the growth itself is malignant, there are several different treatment options that may be available to you.
Surgical Excision
The most common way of treating a canine tumor that is malignant and surface level is by surgically removing it. The process can be relatively simple, in the case of a very small cyst that is caught early on in its development, or it can be more difficult. This depends not only on the size and progression of the growth but also on the location on your pet's body and a number of other factors about your dog, like his age, overall health and size.
Surgery is typically performed at the veterinary clinic and usually requires at least one overnight stay. The dog will be anesthetized for the duration of the procedure and will likely require a fair amount of postoperative care in order to be sure that he doesn't pick at the area and cause an infection or some other problem that is secondary. Costs of surgery in these cases range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand, depending upon the exact nature of the growth and the removal process.
Chemotherapy
Although it's regularly used as a single treatment plan for malignant skin tumors, chemotherapy is a great way of working with your vet to ensure that a malignant growth is removed and that it stays out of your pet's body. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment both are very damaging to your pet's overall health, and they should be used only in the presence of a knowledgeable and experienced professional, who can monitor your pet's health throughout the entire process.
Be aware of the fact that skin tumors on dogs can recur even after you have properly treated them. You'll need to be constantly vigilant over your pet's health after you've discovered an initial malignant growth on his body.