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Most people will be all too aware that should they find
a lump on their pet they should seek advice regarding the
possibility of cancer. Unfortunately, cancer can be much
more subtle than that.
"Wilbur's" owner was the first to admit that
she did not make a point of feeling "Wilbur's"
testicles on a regular basis. I on the other hand, as part
of "Wilbur's" annual health check will routinely
palpate his "credentials" as we like to say for
fear of embarrassment.
It was during that same health check that I noticed that
there was an appreciable difference in consistency between
the two testicles. One felt much firmer than the other.
This subtle change may be the only finding to raise suspicion
of testicular cancer and is the type of examination most
owners should feel comfortable in performing without fear
of embarrassment or "arrest!"
Early diagnosis, as we are all well aware, is crucial in
the success of surgical excision. Luckily for "Wilbur"
this simple check and prompt surgery has meant that a potentially
dangerous problem has been resolved quickly and without
the need for any further medication or treatment.
Whilst his owner and "Wilbur" will now be spared
any further "embarrassing" examinations in the
future it is a timely reminder for all those owners of male
dogs to overcome their own sensitivities and check those
"credentials" on a regular basis!
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