Today, February 4th, is World Cancer Day.
Cancer is personal for us.
Kudo’s journey with lymphoma changed our family forever. It opened our eyes to how common cancer is in dogs — and how important prevention, early detection, and advocacy really are.
While not all cancers can be prevented, there are things we can do to lower risk and catch issues sooner:
Regular vet visits matter. Annual (or senior) exams help catch changes early — lumps, weight loss, behavior shifts — before they become bigger problems.
Spay and neuter timing matters. There’s lots of new information available about spay and neuter surgeries. Talk with your vet about what’s best for your dog’s breed and size, as it can affect cancer risk later in life.
Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is linked to increased cancer risk in dogs, just like in humans.
Limit exposure to toxins. Avoid tobacco smoke, lawn chemicals, pesticides, scented plugins and unnecessary harsh cleaners around your pets.
Feed with intention. A balanced diet and limiting highly processed foods can support long-term health.
Protect their skin. Light-colored and thin-coated dogs are more vulnerable to sun-related cancers — shade matters.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t wait. You know your dog better than anyone.
Check your dogs monthly! Check the entire body from nose to tail, feeling for any bumps or lumps. While checking for any visual changes in fur and skin.
Kudo taught us that time is everything. Prevention doesn’t mean fear — it means paying attention, asking questions, and showing up.
In honor of Kudo, and every pet and person affected by cancer:
hug them a little tighter, schedule the appointment, and don’t ignore the small signs.
We carry Kudo’s legacy forward through awareness, action, and giving back — because love means doing what we can, while we can. 🤍🐾
This is not medical advice; it’s based on our experience with Kudo. Always consult your vet if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Early detection matters. When in doubt, get it checked out.
