Definition.—A deposit or growth of diseased structure confined to the part where it first appears. The tumors generally seen on the dog are of two kinds—(1) indurated, or hard; and (2) encysted, or enclosed in a sac or bag. They are seldom painful, unless considerable pressure be used; as a rule they are movable, and their extent can easily be determined. Encysted tumors are the most common; they vary in size, from that of a nut to that of a pint measure. They are sacs or small bladders filled with matter, smooth and soft, devoid of inflammation, and lie close under the skin. At times their formation is very slow; this is generally the case when they are due to constitutional causes, a fact which can generally be clearly ascertained.
LACTEAL TUMORS
Tumors sometimes form in the teat when there is obstruction in its canal; or when the milk is dried up too soon or too quickly after suckling. They appear in different parts of the gland, as small, movable, hard bodies; increase in size; cause great inconvenience to the animal; and form an eyesore to its owner. If their progress be not arrested, they may ulcerate; or encysted tumors may form, which, if injured by dragging along the ground, may have a similar issue.
Causes.—Bruises; wounds; constitutional tendency; diseased condition of the secreting glands.
Treatment.—Hard tumors are best excised as soon as they appear. The operation is simple, and the wound will generally soon close up if left to the care of the dog, and after a time will scarcely be seen.
Encysted tumors are also best removed by excision. They may also be removed by tapping for the extraction of the fluid, and the subsequent injection of iodine. Should they become compound, they must be excised. On the other hand, when it is known that they have been caused by an injury, they will sometimes disappear by the use of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, internally and externally.
Cancer
All tumors are not cancers, but in certain constitutions, inflammation, indurated and encysted tumors may degenerate into cancerous growths. The cancerous tumor is at first small, hard, knotted and irregular in form; it then grows larger, and is attached to the skin; this inflames and ulcerates; and thus the cancer appears on the surface. Its edges are irregular red or purple, and indurated; it is attended with considerable pain and a most disgusting discharge.
Treatment.—If in good health the tumor may be excised while the dog is under chloroform. But the cancer will return. If fully established, the animal should be put out of its misery. The best application is Humphreys’ Veterinary Oil, and the best internal treatment is the I.I., a dose two or three times per day.