Commentary
These results are potentially a wake-up call for practices. One must trust that most of the lumps and bumps are being measured, noted and follow-up appointments to check on them are being set. The malignancy rate is yet another reason to urge pet owners to consider pet insurance early in the animal’s life.
A 2025 HT Vista survey of more than 240 veterinarians* found that 62 percent of masses on dogs seen in U.S. veterinary clinics go undiagnosed. The survey results noted that as the number of cases rises, veterinarians are less likely to sample them. It suggests a drop in diagnostic attention despite estimates that three out of every 20 masses in patients will have malignancy.
Source: DVM 360, October 14, 2025. Link.
Every week, thousands of dogs leave clinics with undiagnosed masses . . . a “wait and see” culture in veterinary practice can affect patients’ survival and the treatment options that are available to them.” – Gillian Dank, DVM, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA
* most respondents were general practitioners
Image: Link.