Unfortunately oral cancer is quite prevalent in companion animals.  Usually found in older pets, it can be diagnosed at any age.  Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to a successful outcome. 

Not all oral masses are malignant but this can only be determined by biopsy.  Whenever possible oral masses are removed surgically with goal to achieve “clean surgical margins” – completely removed.  It is amazing how well pets will do after surgery and most act is nothing was ever done.  

If surgical removal is not possible or would compromise the quality of life the pet would experience, other treatment options are available, such as radiation or chemotherapy.  The goal is to maintain the highest quality of life for the longest period of time. 

This is a Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a dog.

This is a Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a dog.