November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

Early Detection Saves Lives

At Mission Veterinary Hospital, we know how deeply our pets become part of the family — and just like humans, they can face serious health challenges, including cancer. November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on early detection, prevention, and support for pets and their families affected by this disease.

💛 Understanding Pet Cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older cats and dogs. It can appear in many forms — from lumps under the skin to internal tumors — and sometimes with very few early symptoms. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in both quality and length of life.

Common signs to watch for include:

Unexplained lumps or swelling
Weight loss or loss of appetite
Abnormal bleeding or discharge
Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating
Persistent sores that don’t heal
Changes in behavior or energy

If you notice any of these signs, it’s always best to schedule a checkup. Our veterinarians can perform diagnostic screenings and guide you through next steps with compassion and care.

🩺 Early Detection is Key

Routine wellness exams and annual lab work are some of the best tools for catching cancer early. Bloodwork, X-rays, and physical exams allow our team to identify potential issues before they become serious.

For senior pets, we recommend twice-yearly checkups to stay ahead of any health concerns.

🎗️ How You Can Support Pet Cancer Awareness

This November, help us raise awareness by:

Scheduling your pet’s annual exam or lab screening
Sharing your pet’s story online to inspire others
Donating to organizations that fund veterinary cancer research
Wearing a gold ribbon — the symbol of Pet Cancer Awareness

🐶💛 We’re Here for You and Your Pets

At Mission Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to stand beside pet parents through every stage of their pets’ health journey — from prevention and early detection to treatment and support.

If you have concerns about your pet’s health or would like to schedule an exam, contact our team today.

Together, we can help our pets live longer, healthier, happier lives.