National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is observed in November to bring awareness to the seriousness of cancer in pets. Did you know that the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation has noted that 50% of dogs aged 10 or older get affected by cancer? This month makes sure to spread knowledge about pets and cancer, and it educates owners about the things they can do to prevent as well as treat cancer in pets. Cancer is one of the greatest threats to our furry friends, and it is our responsibility to be aware of ways we can help them fight cancer.
History of National Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Cancer in pets is not a new condition. Bruce Rothschild of the Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine used a portable X-ray machine and scanned over 10,000 dinosaur vertebrae from more than 700 museum specimens and found evidence of cancer in duck-billed dinosaurs that roamed the earth over seven million years ago. There have even been documents from ancient civilizations which dates back thousands of years about cancer both in people and animals. This includes written recognition of cancer in animals in Egypt in 1600 B.C. The major breakthrough in cancer study came with the development of microscopes in 1590. After this, pathologists were able to describe specific cancers and document their relative frequencies.
The earliest treatment of cancer, which dates back to ancient periods, was surgery. Later it shifted to radiation. Richard Eberlein was the first to use radiation to treat animals and reported his results in 1906. During the Second World War, the U.S. Army discovered that nitrogen mustard was effective in treating cancer of the lymph nodes, and it became a drug used commonly for cancer therapy. Over the last 20 years, immunotherapy has become a major strategy to boost the body’s natural mechanisms to fight cancer.
In 1976, the Veterinary Cancer Society was established, which provided space for like-minded clinicians and scientists to share ideas about the discipline of oncology, And soon, standardizing training was established by the board certifications in medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology for better treatment of our pets.
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month timeline
A portable X-ray machine is used to scan over 10,000 dinosaurs and find evidence of cancer in duck-billed dinosaurs.
Documents from ancient civilizations recognize cancer in animals.
Richard Eberlein is the first to use radiation to treat animals and reports his results.
During the Second World War, the U.S. Army discovers that nitrogen mustard is effective in treating cancer of the lymph nodes, and it becomes a drug used commonly for cancer therapy.
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month FAQs
What color is for cancer?
The pink ribbon is used for cancer, and it also includes pets.
When is Pet Cancer Month?
Pet Cancer Month is observed in November to raise awareness about cancer in pets.
Is October the month of cancer awareness?
October is the month of breast cancer awareness.
How to Observe National Pet Cancer Awareness Month
Educate yourself
Educate yourself about cancer in pets and ways to tackle it. Learn how you can prevent cancer in pets and how to take care of pets with cancer.
Spread awareness
Spread awareness about cancer in pets to people. Tell them how common this disease is and ways to control it.
Donate
Donate whatever you can. Also, try volunteering at an animal shelter for this cause.
5 Facts About Cancer In Pets
Lymphoma is a common type of cancer
In both dogs and cats, lymphoma is one of the common types of cancer.
Obesity is linked to cancer
It is linked to the development of certain forms of cancer in animals.
Certain breeds are more at risk
Breeds such as golden retrievers, Bernese mountain dogs, and Scottish terriers are more at risk.
It affects over six million pets
Over six million dogs and cats get diagnosed each year.
Second-hand smoke
Second-hand smoke increases the risk in dogs and cats.
Why National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is Important
It helps animals
This month is dedicated to helping animals with cancer. This month is for a noble cause, and it helps to save lives.
It spreads awareness
It spreads awareness about this grave disease and how to prevent them. It also teaches the correct measures to take with pets with cancer.
It brings the community together
This month brings the community together to help animals. Various events take place, which help to mitigate cancer cases in animals.
National Pet Cancer Awareness Month dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2022 | November 1 | Tuesday |
2023 | November 1 | Wednesday |
2024 | November 1 | Friday |
2025 | November 1 | Saturday |
2026 | November 1 | Sunday |