If you notice some strange moles, bumps or lumps while petting or grooming your little ball of fur, don’t try to remove them on your own. Some of these growths are quite normal, but some can cause your pooch to get cancer.
Skin Tags & Moles
Why they appear is still a mystery, but scientist believe their development has something to do with allergy sensitivities or genetics, just as some people are more prone to having moles than others.
These skin tags are benign in most cases, and do not need attention unless they get physically damaged and become infected.
Moles are also common and in many ways similar to skin tags. They differ in structure and texture. Skin tags tend to be small and floppy, while moles are flatter and harder.
Time to be alarmed
Most skin tags and moles are benign, however, if you do see some rapid changes in size, texture or shape of a mole or growth, you need to take your dog to the vet for a definitive diagnosis and treatment options.
Malignant Tumors
According to Dr. Wendy Lavalle, a South Florida veterinarian specializing in canine and feline cancer, “the aggression of malignant tumors may vary. Some are locally invasive and can become ulcerated and infected. Other malignant tumors are more aggressive and can metastasize (spread to distant locations such as lungs, lymph nodes and other organs) and become locally destructive.”
These tumors can vary in appearance, but they all have the ability to grow larger or rapidly decrease in size.
It is of utmost importance to know the difference between the benign moles and cancerous growths, and to detect them on time. So, if you have any doubts, take your dog to the vet immediately.