20789 Great Falls Plaza, Sterling, VA 20165

Open Mon-Fri: 7AM - 7PM, Sat: 8AM - 2PM

amcvet@amccascades.com

Open Mon-Fri: 5PM to 10PM, Sat: 12PM to 8PM, Sun: 12PM to 6PM

571-434-0250
571-434-0250

Area boarding facilities are reporting outbreaks of Canine Upper Respiratory Disease. This is typically caused by a combination of respiratory viruses and bacteria but does include the possibility of Kennel Cough and Canine Influenza.

We recommend limiting unnecessary contact with dogs in the neighborhood if at all possible during the upcoming weeks.

All the best, The team at AMC

Animal Medical Center of Cascades 571-434-0250
What You Should Know About Cancer and Your Pet

What You Should Know About Cancer and Your Pet

It’s a scary statistic: The Animal Cancer Foundation (ACF) reports that one in four dogs, and one in five cats, will develop cancer in their lifetime—in fact, it’s the leading cause of death for dogs over the age of two. During November at the Animal Medical Center of Cascades, we observe Pet Cancer Awareness Month, which was created by the ACF to raise awareness of the prevalence, symptoms and treatments for cancer in our companion animals. 

As veterinarians, it is our sworn oath to protect and heal pets. Therefore, we’ve compiled a helpful list of things that you should be aware of regarding cancer and your pet. Here are five things to be mindful of during Pet Cancer Awareness month: 

  • Did you know that pets can get health insurance, too? Many plans have cancer coverage nowadays, which not only provides you with peace-of-mind, but also helps you make health decisions for your pet that are easier on your wallet.
  • If you’re a smoker, be careful, because cancer from second-hand smoke affects pets as well as humans. Make sure that next time you do decide to light up, you’re away from your best friend, to prevent them from inhaling those cancerous fumes.
  • Routine wellness care is extremely important in detecting cancer early. These yearly (or twice-yearly for seniors) visits to the vet help detect unusual lumps and bumps, appetite or behavioral changes or odd-smelling breath—which are all early warning signs of cancer. 
  • Pay attention to your pet’s exposure to certain cancer-causing toxins. Pets often lick their paws, but when they do this, they could be ingesting dangerous things like household cleaners or lawn pesticides.
  • Every pet will have a different response to cancer. If your animal companion does get diagnosed, all is not lost! Many cancers are treatable—a board-certified oncologist will explain the type, stage and grade of your pet’s disease and will provide a prognosis. 

Please share these tips with other pet owners or on any of your social media networks. We encourage you to ask us any and all questions related to pet cancer. With your help, we can spread awareness of this disease and how it affects our pets!

For any additional questions or to schedule an appointment for a cancer screening or wellness check, please reach out to us at 571-434-0250.