Canine Prostate Cancer Awareness
Recent research shows that at least 80% of unneutered male dogs over 5 years old are likely to
have some sort of Prostate Disease (read our article on canine prostate hyperplasia for more
details).
If you own a male unneutered dog who is 5 years or older, then we encourage you to get him
checked. All you need to do is book an appointment.
We also have a limited number of free slip leads, which can be given on a first come, first served
basis to the first dogs are checked in November.
Canine benign prostatic hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is
associated with the male sex hormone testosterone and is the most common disease of the
prostate. Prostate disease is common in middle aged to older dogs that have not been
castrated. Recent research shows that at least 80% of unneutered dogs over five years old are
likely to be suffers.
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a small gland located near the neck of the bladder in male dogs. The urethra
(the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body) passes through the prostate.
The purpose of the prostate is to produce some of the fluids found in semen.
What are the signs of prostate disease?
A dog with prostate enlargement often has a history of straining to urinate and/or defecate.
Dogs will spend a prolonged time trying to urinate and this urine can also be bloody, with blood
sometimes dripping from the penis. Dogs that also have difficulty in passing faeces
(constipation) will often produce flattened/squashed faeces. Some dogs will also have a stiff gait
and arched back
How is prostate disease diagnosed?
To see if the prostate is enlarged your vet will attempt to feel the prostate either through the
abdominal wall or through the rectal wall. Radiographs (x-rays) or ultrasound may be required
to help diagnosis. A microscopic examination of the cells in the prostate from fluid obtained
from the prostate is often taken to rule out other cause of prostate enlargement (see other
cause below). A new blood test is also now available.
How is BHP treated?
Enlargement of the gland is caused by testosterone which is produced by the testicles. Surgical
Treatment involves removing the testicles (castration) which generally restores the prostate to
normal size within 1 month of castration.
The alternative Medical Treatment is a course of tablets taken daily for 7 days. These tablets
help reduce the size of the prostate gland by 40% within 2 weeks and the effect lasts for 5
months whilst also preserving reproductive function.
How is BHP prevented?
Getting your male dog neutered (castrated) is the only prevention for BHP.
Other causes of prostate enlargement.
*****info supplied by Ashcroft Vet Services