OncoK9® – Early Cancer Detection for Dogs
Find Out the Recommended Age to Start Screening Your Dog for Cancer
The OncoK9 Cancer SAFE™ (Screening Age For Early detection) tool uses data from over 3,000 cancer-diagnosed dogs to determine the age at which it may be appropriate to start annual cancer screening for your dog.
How It Works
Enter Details About Your Dog
Provide your dog’s age and breed. You will also be asked to input your dog’s weight if their breed is not listed, mixed, or unknown.
Why Screen Your Dog For Cancer?
Just like in people, cancer screening should be an important part of preventive care in dogs. It is best to screen for cancer while your pet is feeling well before they start to show any clinical signs of the disease. The goal is to catch cancer earlier, when it may be easier to treat.
The term “screening” refers to one or more exams or tests performed on a dog who does not currently have any signs of cancer but who does have a higher risk of cancer due to their age and/or breed.
If you currently suspect that your dog may have cancer, contact your veterinarian right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cancer screening?
Cancer screening refers to one or more exams or tests performed on a dog who does not currently have any signs of cancer but who does have a higher risk of cancer due to their age and/or breed.
What are the benefits of early detection through screening?
Early detection and treatment are the best ways to manage cancer in pets. Cancer is frequently treatable, and early diagnosis will aid your veterinarian in delivering the best care possible.
What are the current guidelines for cancer screening in dogs?
Screening guidelines are well established in human medicine for various cancer types, and multiple veterinary organizations recognize the value of early cancer detection. General health screening recommendations include annual or biannual exams and routine labwork9, which may detect some cancer types. However, formal cancer screening guidelines have not yet been established in veterinary medicine.
How is the screening age recommendation determined?
Using data from over 3,000 dogs diagnosed with cancer, the typical age at cancer diagnosis was determined for dogs of various breeds and weights. Initiation of cancer screening is recommended prior to the typical age at diagnosis in order to detect cancer earlier when the chances of effective treatment are better. This tool suggests an age to begin cancer screening for individual dogs based on the breed and/or weight details provided.
View the study that provides the scientific foundation for the OncoK9 Cancer SAFE™ recommendations.
Why is my dog’s breed not listed?
How do I use the OncoK9 Cancer SAFE recommendation?
PetDx aims to increase awareness among pet parents about canine cancer and about the importance of early detection. You can share this cancer screening recommendation with your veterinarian, who will advise you on the best course of action for your dog. The OncoK9 Cancer SAFE Tool is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace the expertise and recommendations of your veterinarian.