There seems to be a national holiday for everything! However, some are more important than others. That’s why you should mark your calendars for November 7th.
November 7th is an important national holiday—National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day. Discover the four reasons why you should acknowledge National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day below.
1. The holiday offers a rich, emotional history.
National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day was submitted by Terry Simons in 2015. Simons is a dog agility trainer. Simon’s dog was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2011 and died a year later. Simon founded the Canine Lymphoma Education and Research (CLEAR) foundation to provide resources, information, and research for the disease.
2. Lymphoma is one of the most prevalent types of cancer in dogs.
According to the American Kennel Club, Canine Lymphoma is similar to non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in people. There are most than 30 different types of Canine Lymphomas. They vary in aggressiveness, survival rates, and clinical signs. The symptoms change depending on the type of Lymphoma.
3. We still don’t know much about Canine Lymphoma.
The American Kennel Club states scientists do not know what causes Lymphoma in dogs. However, there is hope that advanced genetic studies will help identify any underlying genetic and chromosomal causes or predispositions. We do know that dogs share the same environment as humans. Meaning, there are exposed to the same toxins and carcinogens that cause cancer in humans.
4. By celebrating National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day, you can be the cure.
The more awareness raised from the holiday, the more scientists, researchers, and veterinarians will look to find a cure for the cancer. With research being in its beginning stages, there is no better thing to do than educate ourselves first, then family and friends. You can find ways to give to Canine Lymphoma here.
Speaking for those who cannot is our moral responsibility. Acknowledge National Canine Lymphoma Day to raise awareness for those who cannot ask for help themselves!