May is Melanoma Awareness Month

May is Melanoma Awareness Month (#MelanomaAwarenessMonth). Social media posts are currently sharing facts about skin cancer, encouraging people to have regular skin checks, and emphasizing the importance of sun safety and skin cancer prevention, especially in Australia, where the sun's UV rays are particularly intense and skin cancer is a significant health concern.

Our furry family members can also develop melanoma. Interestingly, melanocytic tumours of the skin tend to be far less aggressive in dogs than they are in people. Canine cutaneous (skin) melanocytic tumours are often adequately addressed with surgery alone.

Melanoma of the oral cavity in dogs, however, is unfortunately a more aggressive disease process. Melanoma is also the most common malignant oral tumour in dogs. Symptoms of oral tumours, such as melanoma, can be mistaken for poor dental hygiene, and include bad breath, poor appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, bleeding from the mouth and facial swelling. Although any of these symptoms are concerning, they do not absolutely mean your pet has oral cancer. If you are worried about your pet, it is important to consult with their veterinarian. It is also important that your pet have regular check-ups with their veterinarian. Early intervention is key to the management of cancer in our pets. The diagnosis and treatment planning for an oral tumour should ideally include a biopsy and CT scan. The treatment of oral tumours might include surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. For melanoma specifically, there is even a therapeutic vaccine available.

The adorable Pomeranian in this photo is Grizle, who belongs to one of VSS’ administrative staff members. Grizle has previously undergone surgery for removal of an oral malignant melanoma, followed by a course of the vaccine. Nearly one year following the original diagnosis, Grizle is doing extremely well, and loving doing life with her doting owners.

While we certainly hope your pet never requires the advice or services of the Oncology Service at VSS, the team is always here to help.