Mention this offer to claim $25 off your pet's first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn how heartworm disease spreads, the symptoms to watch for, and how year-round prevention can protect dogs and cats from this serious parasite.

Heartworm Awareness Month: How to Protect Your Pet from Heartworm Disease

Learn how to prevent Lyme disease in dogs, recognize symptoms early, and protect your pet from tick-borne illness with effective tick prevention.

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Learn why parasite prevention for dogs and cats is essential year round. Understand how fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms affect pets and how veterinary preventive care protects their health.

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

Poison exposure is one of the most common and preventable causes of emergency veterinary visits. This guide outlines the most common sources of pet poisoning, warning signs to watch for, and steps you can take to protect your pet.


Poison Prevention in Pets: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Bad breath is one of the most common signs of dental and oral disease in dogs and cats. While it is often dismissed as normal, persistent odor from the mouth is almost always an indication of an underlying issue.

Bad Breath in Pets: What It Means and When to See the Veterinarian

Wed Jun 04 2025 15:22:31 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Androscoggin Animal Hospital

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

career-page

careers-section

forms-page

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and friendly, compassionate service.

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

Androscoggin Animal Hospital has a curated hub for pet owners in Topsham, Brunswick, Bath and surrounding areas. It includes helpful links for financial aid like CareCredit, pet insurance plans, training & boarding facilities, general pet health & safety info, microchipping, adoption resources and local dog parks. Easily access trusted external resources and local services in one place.

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-2

payment-section-3

payment-section-4

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<h2 dir="auto"><strong>Why Pet Cancer Awareness Matters</strong></h2><p dir="auto">Cancer is one of the most common health challenges in dogs and cats. One in four dogs and one in five cats will face cancer in their lifetime. Routine wellness exams and preventative lab work play a key role in early identification, since many changes begin internally long before symptoms appear.</p><h2 dir="auto"><strong>Warning Signs to Watch For</strong></h2><p dir="auto">Contact your UVC veterinarian at () if you notice:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Lumps or bumps that change in size or shape</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Decreased appetite or energy</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Unexplained weight loss</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Increased thirst or urination</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or using the bathroom</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Behavioral changes</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Ongoing pain, stiffness, or limping</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Even subtle changes can be meaningful. If your pet seems “off,” trust your instincts.</p><h2 dir="auto"><strong>Proactive Care Makes a Difference</strong></h2><p dir="auto">While not all cancers can be prevented, healthy habits and regular veterinary screening improve early identification and long-term health:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Annual or semiannual wellness exams</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Preventive lab testing</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Healthy weight management</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Regular physical activity</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and chemicals</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Protecting light-colored pets from excessive sun exposure</p></li></ul><h2 dir="auto"><strong>Senior Pets Require Extra Monitoring</strong></h2><p dir="auto">Cancer risk increases with age. UVC Hospitals recommend:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Twice-yearly exams and bloodwork</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Monitoring for new lumps, appetite changes, or weight loss</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Discussing additional screening or specialist care when appropriate</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Early identification expands treatment options and supports quality of life.</p><h2 dir="auto"><strong>Treatment Options and Support</strong></h2><p dir="auto">If your pet is diagnosed with cancer, your UVC veterinary team is here to guide you. Treatment options may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Diagnostic imaging</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy (through referral partners)</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Pain management and nutritional support</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Many cases can be successfully managed, especially when identified early. Treatment options for pets continue to expand, and even cancers that cannot be cured can often be managed long-term as chronic conditions when the right therapy is initiated.</p><h2 dir="auto"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Cancer</strong></h2><p dir="auto"><strong>1. What are the most common signs of cancer in pets?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Lumps, weight loss, appetite changes, difficulty breathing, or persistent pain. Any lasting or unusual change should be evaluated.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>2. How is cancer diagnosed in dogs and cats?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Diagnosis often includes a physical exam, bloodwork, imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound, and sampling a lump through a needle aspirate or biopsy.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>3. Can pet cancer be treated or cured?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Some cancers can be cured with surgery. Others can be managed long term with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or supportive care.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>4. Which pets are at higher risk?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Senior pets, certain breeds, overweight pets, and those exposed to UV light or secondhand smoke. Older pets benefit most from twice-yearly screenings.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>5. When should I contact my veterinarian?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Any new lump, behavior change, appetite loss, or weight change should be checked promptly. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>6. Are cancer treatments painful for pets?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Most pets tolerate cancer treatments well. Veterinary oncology focuses on maintaining comfort and quality of life, and side effects are generally much milder than in humans.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>7. Is chemotherapy safe for pets?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Yes. Chemotherapy protocols in pets prioritize comfort. Most pets experience little to no GI side effects. Because most pets have fur rather than hair, many do not lose their fur at all.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>8. How fast does cancer spread in pets?</strong></p><p dir="auto">It depends on the type. Some cancers grow slowly, while others spread quickly. Early identification gives your veterinarian more time to address the disease.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>9. How can I help prevent cancer in my pet?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Maintain a healthy weight, feed a balanced diet, limit chemical and smoke exposure, protect from sun damage, and schedule regular wellness exams and lab work.</p><p dir="auto"><strong>10. What should I expect if my pet is diagnosed with cancer?</strong></p><p dir="auto">Your veterinarian will explain diagnostic findings, outline treatment options, discuss prognosis, and may recommend referral to a veterinary oncologist or specialist for advanced care.</p><p dir="auto"></p>

Every November, we recognize National Pet Cancer Awareness Month to help pet parents understand cancer risks, early warning signs, and the importance of proactive veterinary care. Awareness empowers families to act early and support their pets' long-term health.

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

gtm_684016eb922db540aa8159e6

facebook_pixel_684016eb922db540aa8159e6

androscogginanimalhospital

We love educating our clients! That's why we have curated and shared posts filled with helpful information regarding pet care.

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Same-day appointments welcome, call/text us for options!

Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

This accreditation is important as it exemplifies the standard of veterinary excellence.

We look forward to seeing you! Please use our booking widget below to book an appointment today!

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

<p>Here at Androscoggin Animal Hospital, we accept many different payment options, including cash, checks, CareCredit, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.</p>

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

<p>Get the care you need today, and pay for treatment costs overtime with a Scratch plan.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Permanent ID for Peace of Mind. A collar can come off. A tag can get lost. But a microchip is a permanent, tamper-proof way to make sure your pet always has a way home. At (), we offer safe and simple microchip implantation, so your pet stays connected to you, no matter what.

Pet Microchipping

Get expert pet care from home with virtual vet telemedicine at (). Our licensed vets provide secure, convenient video visits for minor issues, follow-ups, and wellness advice, perfect for anxious pets or busy owners. Book your virtual vet appointment today.

Virtual Vet Care

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain in animals.

Laser Therapy

Ensure your pet travels safely with expert veterinary health certificates for local, interstate, and international trips. Our USDA-accredited veterinarians handle exams, travel forms, and documentation for airlines and border requirements, so your pet is healthy, compliant, and ready to go wherever your journey leads.

Pet Health Certificates

Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. When that time comes, you deserve clarity, comfort, and the space to make decisions with peace of mind.

End-of-Life Support

When your pet needs medication, trust and convenience matter. At (), we prescribe and dispense medications directly from the team whos seen your pet, knows their health history, and understands their specific needs.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


Pet Prescriptions

Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pets end up at the vet, and they're also some of the most frustrating. Allergies, infections, or even food sensitivities can all cause your pet discomfort.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

When pets act out, there's almost always a reason. Anxiety, fear, medical conditions, or past trauma can show up as barking, biting, hiding, or destruction. Our job is to uncover the cause and help your pet feel safe again.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

A sudden limp. A skipped meal. A look that says something's off. When your pet isn't feeling right, same-day answers make all the difference. 

Urgent Care

When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

Diagnostic Testing

Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

Wellness Exams

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

Dental Care

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.


Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

Vaccinations

Simplify pet care with affordable wellness packages at (). Our customized plans cover exams, vaccines, parasite prevention, and diagnostics for every life stage, puppy, adult, or senior. Enjoy predictable pricing, peace of mind, and healthier pets with routine, proactive care.

Wellness Packages

Discover hidden dental issues before they cause pain with pet dental radiology at (). Our veterinary dental X-rays reveal infections, bone loss, and tooth damage beneath the gum line, ensuring safer, more effective treatment. Non-invasive and included in every comprehensive dental cleaning, dental radiographs for pets help protect your pet's health, comfort, and smile for years to come.


Dental Radiology

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent certain cancers and infections, curbs unwanted behaviors, and reduces the number of orphaned pets in shelters.

Sheet title

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

Recent Blogs

FAQs

Sheet title

Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Early Diagnosis, Prevention, and Hope

Recent Blogs

Heartworm Awareness Month: How to Protect Your Pet from Heartworm Disease

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

FAQs

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

What if I have questions about my pet's medications?

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?