As a dog owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy for as long as possible. One exciting new tool for proactive preventive care is the Nu.Q cancer screen. It can help us detect cancer earlier to increase the chance of successful treatment. If you’re looking for a non-invasive and reliable cancer screening test for your dog, you might consider the Nu.Q.
What is the Nu.Q cancer screen?
The Nu.Q is blood test, or “liquid biopsy,” that screens for changes in the levels of certain biomarkers, “nucleosomes,” in the blood. Elevated levels of nucleosomes can indicate the presence of certain cancers.
How does the Nu.Q test work?
To perform the Nu.Q test, we will take a small blood sample from your dog, process it, then send it out just like our routine wellness lab profiles. The laboratory will analyze the sample for changes in the levels nucleosomes which may indicate the presence of cancer.
What are the benefits of the Nu.Q cancer screen?
One of the biggest benefits of the Nu.Q. test is that it is non-invasive, which means it doesn’t require anesthesia or surgery. This can be a big relief for dog owners who are worried about the risks and side effects of invasive procedures. Also, it’s surprisingly affordable for a brand new type of technology! Additionally, the Nu.Q test is reliable–it can catch 76% of systemic cancers like lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, and histiocytic sarcomas.
Is the Nu.Q cancer screen right for my dog?
The Nu.Q test is an affordable option for any dog owner who wants to screen their pet for cancer. However, it is specifically recommended for dogs who are at higher risk of developing cancer, such as dogs 7 years or older, or for 4-7 year old dogs of higher risk breeds like Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Beagles, Westies, Corgis, and Shelties.
How can I get the Nu.Q test for my dog?
We can run this test as a simple, affordable addition to your dog’s usual annual wellness screening! However, it’s important to avoid testing during times of illness and to avoid feeding for at least 4 hours prior to the test.
Conclusion
The Nu.Q cancer screening test is a valuable new tool for dog owners who want to optimize their pet’s health and longevity. By detecting cancer early, this non-invasive test can help increase the chances of successful treatment and improve outcomes for dogs with cancer. Please let us know if you’re interested in the Nu.Q test for your dog! It’s more affordable than you may think!
Additional Resources
Clinical Reference Guide from IDEXX
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Dr. Alison Barulich