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Leukemia (Chronic) in Dogs

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Treatment

 

If the dog is displaying no symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend against treatment. Otherwise, chemotherapy remains the most popular form of treatment. A veterinary oncologist will be able to devise a treatment plan based on the dog and stage of the disease. In some patients, the spleen may need to be removed to avoid complications.

 

Living and Management

 

Regular monitoring and checkups are necessary to evaluate the dog's response to treatment and the progression of the disease. Moreover, regular blood, cardiac, and body system testing will be required if the dog is undergoing chemotherapy. This is because dogs are more prone to infection when taking chemotherapeutic drugs. In case of serious complications, your veterinarian may reduce dosages or stop the treatment altogether.

 

Should you be required to administer the drugs, your veterinarian will instruct you as to the dosage and frequency. Do not ever increase or reduce the dosage of drugs without prior consulting with your veterinarian. These chemotherapeutic agents are just as toxic to humans, and should only be administered under strict guidelines.

 

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