National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day

National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day is observed every year on November 7. It draws attention to lymphoma in dogs, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, and encourages people to learn about the disease and support dogs and families facing a diagnosis.

How the day started

According to Canine Lymphoma Education Awareness and Research (CLEAR), CLEAR established National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day on November 7, 2015, to raise awareness of canine lymphoma and support research into the disease. The day has since grown to include education, community, and fundraising.

Awareness days can also give pet owners a reason to share reliable resources with friends, family, and fellow animal lovers. If you post about the day, choose information from a veterinary professional or a recognized animal-health organization, and avoid treating another dog’s experience as a guide to what every dog will face.

Understanding canine lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer involving lymphocytes, a kind of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system. These cells are found in the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes and other tissues throughout the body. Because lymphocytes travel through the body, lymphoma can affect different areas, and its signs may vary from one dog to another.

A dog with lymphoma may have enlarged lymph nodes, which can sometimes be felt beneath the jaw, in front of the shoulders, or behind the knees. Other changes can occur too, but they may have many possible causes. A noticeable lump or a change in a dog’s energy, appetite, or general condition is not enough to identify lymphoma on its own. A veterinarian can examine the dog and recommend appropriate tests.

Diagnosis and care are individual decisions. A veterinary team can explain what is known about a particular dog’s condition, discuss available options, and help a family weigh benefits, burdens, and the dog’s comfort. If a dog has been diagnosed, asking questions and keeping notes can make appointments easier to navigate. For general information, use trustworthy veterinary sources rather than relying on social media posts or anecdotes alone.

Ways to recognize the day

• Learn the basics. Read a reliable overview of canine lymphoma, including common signs and how veterinarians investigate them. Keep in mind that symptoms can overlap with other conditions.
• Make a vet appointment when something concerns you. If you notice a new lump or a persistent change in your dog, contact your veterinary clinic. Describe what you have observed and when it began; let the veterinarian guide the next steps.
• Support someone caring for a sick dog. Offer a ride to an appointment, help with an everyday task, or simply listen. Ask what would be useful rather than assuming what the family needs.
• Share information carefully. Post a reputable veterinary resource or a personal message of support. Leave out unverified treatment claims and avoid giving medical advice unless you are a qualified professional.
• Honor a dog’s everyday joys. Spend time together in ways that suit the dog, whether that means a gentle walk, a favorite game, or a quiet afternoon at home. Follow any care guidance the dog’s veterinarian has provided.

This page is for general awareness and isn't medical advice. For questions about your own health, talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on November 4, 2026 · Last updated November 4, 2026.

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