“Dogs’ lives are too short. Their only fault, really.”
Once an energetic, playful pup, age had caught up to our beloved black Labrador, Bulldozer (Dozer). At 12 years old he had slowed down but a change in sleep habits and energy in early December 2019 led us to the vet where we learned that our beautiful boy may have cancer. Tests were run but before we could even get the results back our family had to make the heart wrenching decision to say goodbye to our four-legged best friend on Christmas Eve. Our devastation turned to shock when we learned at the rate of which cancer affects our canine family members (an estimated 1 in 4 dogs will develop cancer at some point throughout their life.1).
About Summers Charity
Summers Charity was created in honor of our boy, Dozer, to help fund much needed canine cancer research at the Veterinary Oncology Services and Research Center in West Chester, PA, as well as increase overall awareness. Funds are raised through our annual 5k run event, Dozer’s Run.
5th Annual Dozer’s Run 5k
Sunday, April 14, 2024
To support ongoing canine cancer research with the hope to grow into a resource that helps affected animals and families in need of aid.
Countdown to Dozer's Run
Day(s)
:
Hour(s)
:
Minute(s)
:
Second(s)
Register
Donate
Volunteer
Thank you to our 2024 Big Dog Sponsors!
Is my dog at risk for cancer?
An estimated 6 million dogs are diagnosed with cancer each year.2 While it is unknown what causes cancer in pets there are several factors that have been linked, including sun exposure, genetics, exposure to pesticides, and poor food. As with any disease, early detection is critical for the best outcome.
Learn more about canine cancer by visiting the Veterinary Oncology Services and Research Center website.
Keep an eye out for these early warning signs of cancer in your dog:
- Abnormal or rapidly growing swellings
- Sores that do not heal
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Difficulty eating, swallowing, or breathing
- Lameness
- Difficulty urinating or defecating