Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs: Signs & Treatment

You may have heard of squamous cell cancer in humans, but what about when it comes to dogs? No pet owner wants to hear that their pet is sick, especially with a cancerous condition. The stress of a sick pet can be devastating and can affect the family emotionally and financially. This is why early detection is key, as is the understanding that medical conditions like squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) in dogs can occur in any pup, regardless of their breed, size, or age.  

Since dogs can't speak up about concerns for their health, it's up to us pet owners to watch over them and take action when health conditions arise. We spoke with veterinarian, Dr. Caroline Wilde to learn more about squamous cell carcinoma in dogs and what to watch for in your beloved companion.

What is canine squamous cell carcinoma?

Also known as epidermoid carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates in the squamous cells. These cells make up a type of epithelial tissue lining smooth surfaces of the body, like the skin, lung, pericardium, and blood vessels. Because of this, squamous cell carcinoma has the potential to occur in a number of areas around the body.

According to Wilde, however, it most commonly appears as a form of skin cancer.

“Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that generally occurs on non-pigmented, thinly haired areas of skin," she says. "Though it can also occur in the mouth, eyelids, or tissues surrounding the eyes.”

The good news is that this means many squamous cell cases can be caught early and treated effectively. However, it should still be viewed as a serious condition that, left untreated or caught after it has already progressed too far, can be fatal.

How does squamous cell carcinoma in dogs happen?

Cancer can come in many shapes and forms. Because of this, it can be hard to know what to look for in your pets. Just like with humans, there might not always be a clear indication of the reason for the condition.

“It’s not known how dogs get SCC, though it may be associated with increased exposure to UV light,” states Wilde. "If you detect anything abnormal with your dog, you should seek medical care immediately."

Exposure to different environments may negatively affect your dog. You may want to consider clothing and pet care options like canine sunscreen to help keep your pet protected from the elements.

Common signs of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs

SCC of the skin generally appears as a discrete pinkish or reddish lesion, often with an irregular surface.

When it occurs in the mouth, ease of detection varies with location, as it can occur on the gums, under or on the tongue, or deeper in the oral cavity like on the tonsils.

Due to difficulty in visualizing lesions inside the mouth or oral cavity, the owner may first notice some signs that may not seem serious on their own. According to Wilde, these signs include:

• Drooling
• Bad breath
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Weight loss

While every dog is different, some pets might experience some of these signs or only a few. Regardless, if owners notice any of these to please check in with your veterinarian. The earlier a medical condition like this is detected, the sooner you can start a treatment plan.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma in dogs starts with a biopsy or fine needle aspirate. From there your veterinarian will determine the next steps based on the results. In addition, several diagnostics might be performed including radiographs, a sample of lymph nodes, CT scan, or an ultrasound.

Treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma in dogs

Finding out your dog has an illness like squamous cell carcinoma is frightening. But once you do get this diagnosis, it's time to focus on getting your dog the treatment they need. With the expertise and help of your veterinarian, there may be a wide variety of treatment options for cancer in dogs. You'll have to work closely with them, as well as anyone else on you pet's medical team in order to give your dog the best chances.

“The goal of treatment is always the elimination of all cancerous cells and may depend on location and evidence of spread," Wilde explains. "Also, treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy. Naturally, the first step is surgical removal depending on the location if possible. The goal being the removal of all cancerous cells and to obtain ‘clean margins’.”

If you have a good dog insurance policy already in place, your coverage may be able to help pay for your dog's treatment for squamous cell carcinoma. Even if you don't already have coverage, signing up for a policy now can help cover future new health conditions affecting your pet.

Helping your dog through treatment

Just like a human going through a difficult illness, pets need the support and understanding of others to get through things smoothly. Without a doubt, your furry friend will need the love and support of their family. Your pet might be scared, confused, or in pain during the treatment process, and unlike human patients, there's no way to explain to a dog why all of it is necessary to their health and wellbeing. 

Always talk with your veterinary treatment team about how you should and shouldn't handle your pet during this time. They may be accustomed to kisses and snuggles from you, but too much physical touch (or too rough) could get in the way of their recovery. Regardless, having you there to comfort them can help your dog stay at ease and overcome their health battle.

Remission is possible with squamous cell carcinoma in dogs

If your dog is diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, it's important to stay calm and be ready to jump on treatment. Of course, early detection is always a key factor to a successful treatment plan. By notating any new growths, staying on track with your dog’s treatment plan, and checking in with your veterinarian, your best friend can reach remission and be on the road to recovery.