Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/cancer-screening-test-dogs/

Henderson, Nevada-based VolitionRx (NYSE-A:VNRX) has announced the launch of the Nu.Q cancer-screening test to be used by veterinarians across the country. It should be available for use in Europe by the Heska Corporation through Heska’s veterinary diagnostic laboratories shortly afterward. A statement by Volition Veterinary Diagnostics Development CEO Dr. Tom Butera noted “It is another key milestone for us, as we press ahead with our aim to ensure as many veterinarians as possible can access our Nu.Q vet cancer screening test for the pets and pet owners who trust them.”

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Photo: Pixabay/Alkhaine

Canine Cancer Screening

This is a real breakthrough for cancer screening in canines. The number of dogs that end up getting cancer is actually startling, with golden retrievers leading the pack when it comes to cases of it. In fact, cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over the age of 2. According to the Morris Animal Foundation, half of all dogs beyond the age of 10 will die of some form of it. Why the numbers are so high isn’t known yet, but a reliable screening test is welcome news for veterinarians and pet owners alike.

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Photo: Pixabay/Annabel_P

Cure for Cancer

While it’s not a cure, the sooner cancer is detected in patients, the better the outcome with higher chances of survival. This holds true whether you have two legs or four. According to VolitionRx (NYSE-A:VNRX), there are roughly 84 million doggos kept as pets in America, and about half of them are seen at least once a year by their veterinarians. “Implementing the Nu.Q vet cancer screening test at annual wellness visits can help detect cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear, allowing for a better chance of effective treatment and improved outcomes,” Butera stated.

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Photo: Pixabay/falellorente

Accurate & Affordable Testing

VolitionRx is said to be developing simple and easy-to-use blood tests that are cost-effective for aiding in diagnosing and monitoring a range of serious diseases impacting both humans and animals. Treating cancer in pets is costly, just like it is with humans. If you can’t afford it, the screening might not be of much use to you as a pet owner. That’s why pet professionals and vets suggest purchasing pet insurance before an emergency arises. Trying to get it after the fact is a bust. As it happens, there are some pretty affordable plans available to you, but you’ll have to do your homework to see which is right for you. It’s recommended you discuss it with your vet in advance to make sure you get the right coverage before committing to any one insurance plan.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog