Discover The Best Ways To Deal With Dog Cancer

By Geraldine Dimarco


Cancer-- is there a word that strikes more dread than this? It is a very real state that we face not only with people but also with our pets. There is still not as much information as we would like to have regarding dog cancer; but experts continue to study and find the most effective ways to deal with this disease.

Half of all canine cancer cases are skin related, twenty percent are associated with the mammary glands, and the rest is divided to the different systems. The prescribed treatment will depend on each animal?s specifics like age, weight, breed and health issues that need to be considered. You will find in this article a short guide to alternative cancer treatments for dog that is helpful to know about.

Cancer is defined as the growth of abnormal tumors in specific parts of the body. Like in people, there are two kinds of tumors: benign and malignant tumors. Benign tumors are cysts that have defined edges, making it fairly simple to remove through surgery. Malignant tumors are the opposite. They spread and have blurry edges, in effect making it more dangerous and impossible to completely take out by surgery.

Radiotherapy is the treatment wherein radiation is used to destroy the cancer cells in damaged tissues so they will not reproduce. The challenge is to give the correct dosage so that the radiation will only affect the cancer cells and not harm the normal cells. To manage this, radiation is given in lower quantities at regular intervals. This will ensure that the cancer cells are dealt with while the normal cells are allowed to recover effectively.

Unlike when done with people, radiation does not give the dog harmful side effects like nausea and vomiting; primarily because of the smaller quantity used. It is estimated to prolong the life of the animal for months instead of just weeks as previously believed. Hyperthermia, another treatment done to kill cancer cells through the employment of high temperature, is used alongside radiation.

Chemotherapy uses drug therapy to disrupt the growth and spread of cancer cells and is frequently used for widespread forms of dog cancer. The levels of the drugs have to be closely monitored because the toxicity it contains may cause infection, heart and bladder problems - generally complicating the canine?s health.

More veterinarians are also supporting the use of herbal supplements to prevent and cure canine diseases. Flaxseed oil and fish oil are two powerful anti-tumor remedies that not only help in the energy, appearance and performance of the animal?it has been said to reduce tumor size by about fifty percent.

Consult with your vet first to confirm his diagnosis before carrying out any type of alternative cancer treatments for dog. Look for changes in their physical or behavioral patterns. Maintain regular check-ups with the vet so that you can stop any sickness in its beginning stages. Ensure the best health for your pet through a clean environment, regular exercise and a good, nutritional diet.




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