Canine contagious cancer, also known as canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT), is a type of infectious cancer that affects dogs. CTVT is a sexually transmitted disease that is spread among dogs through the transfer of cancerous cells during mating.

This type of cancer is rare in most parts of the world, but it is more prevalent in certain areas, including Musuda, a city in Japan.

What is Canine Contagious Cancer?

Canine transmissible venereal tumor is a type of cancer that affects dogs. Unlike most forms of cancer, CTVT is contagious and can spread easily among dogs.

The disease is spread through the transfer of cancerous cells during mating, which means that any dog that engages in sexual activity is at risk of contracting the disease. In most cases, the cancer affects the genital area of male and female dogs.

Symptoms of Canine Contagious Cancer

The most common symptom of canine contagious cancer is the appearance of tumors on the genitals of infected dogs. The tumors are typically round and raised, and they can vary in size.

In male dogs, the tumors are commonly found on the penis and around the anus. In female dogs, the tumors can be found on the vulva. Other symptoms include:.

Discharge from the genital area
Swelling in the genital area
Difficulty urinating or defecating
Loss of appetite

Prevalence of Canine Contagious Cancer in Musuda

Canine transmissible venereal tumor is more prevalent in certain areas of the world, including Musuda, a city in Japan.

According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, the incidence of CTVT in Musuda was found to be higher in male dogs than in female dogs. The study analyzed a total of 73 cases of CTVT in dogs in the city, and found that the incidence of the disease was 1.9 times higher in male dogs than in females.

Risk Factors for Canine Contagious Cancer

Any dog that engages in sexual activity is at risk of contracting CTVT. However, certain factors can increase the risk of the disease. These include:.

Living in a high-prevalence area
Being an unneutered male or an unspayed female
Having a weakened immune system
Engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners

Treatment for Canine Contagious Cancer

Canine transmissible venereal tumor can be treated successfully in most cases. The most common treatment is chemotherapy, which involves the use of drugs to kill the cancerous cells. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tumors.

In addition to medical treatment, it is important to provide supportive care to the affected dogs, including a nutritious diet, plenty of rest, and a clean and comfortable living environment. With proper treatment and care, most dogs recover from CTVT.

Prevention of Canine Contagious Cancer

The best way to prevent CTVT in dogs is to have them spayed or neutered. This can significantly reduce the risk of the disease, as well as other health problems, such as reproductive cancers.

In addition, it is important to limit your dog’s sexual activity and to avoid allowing dogs to mate with unknown partners. Regular veterinary checkups can also help to detect and treat CTVT and other health problems early on.

Conclusion

Canine contagious cancer is a rare but serious disease that affects dogs.

While it can be worrying to learn that the disease is more prevalent in certain areas, such as Musuda, there are steps that dog owners can take to reduce the risk of the disease in their pets. By spaying or neutering your dog, limiting their sexual activity, and providing regular veterinary care, you can help to keep your pet healthy and protected from this and other health problems.