By Kandis Paden

Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death for our pets, and this month is Pet Cancer Awareness month.

The Animal Cancer Center estimates that 50 percent of all dogs and cats will develop the disease by the time they reach age 10.

But cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence.

When cancer is discovered early, the probability of a positive outcome is much higher.

Routine veterinary care and wellness screenings are the best way to detect these kinds of problems early on, so make sure that your dog is seen by his vet on a regular basis.

Also, your groomer is another resource during the year.

With a hands-on appointment lasting an hour or more, your groomer will have physically examined every inch of your pet.

A conscientious groomer will alert you to any abnormalities that should be followed up at the vet.

Early detection is vital to the successful treatment of canine cancer.

Here are the Top 10 Warning Signs from the American Veterinary Cancer Society:

1. Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow

2. Sores that do not heal

3. Weight loss

4. Loss of appetite

5. Bleeding or discharge from any body opening

6. Offensive odor

7. Difficulty eating or swallowing

8. Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina

9. Persistent lameness or stiffness

10. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

Finally, as you can imagine, cancer care is expensive. The importance of planning ahead and subscribing to pet insurance is the best way to make sure you will always be able to provide for your pet’s medical needs and offer him the very best medical treatment.

Planning ahead is especially important during these tough economic times.

Insurance plans are offered by Veterinary Pet Insurance and Trupanion Pet Insurance, but you can shop around to find the best plan that fits your needs and your budgets, as there are a number of plans available.

Kandis Paden is the owner of Le Chic Pet, in the Issaquah Highlands.