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Does my dog have cancer?
Q
My ten year old Collie bitch has some hard lumps on her underside. They came up just after she had been on heat. Could this be cancer and what should I do?
A
Mammary cancer (the same as breast cancer in humans) is the most common cancer to affect female dogs, especially if they are not spayed. The only effective treatment is surgery to remove the lumps, and the earlier this is done the better. Sometimes spaying is also recommended. Talk to your own vet about the best way to proceed, but do it sooner rather than later.
If you are worried about your pet's health, visit the Petfix DIY Triage Checker or talk to your vet as soon as possible.