Cancer is one of the scariest things in the world for pet owners. If Big C is horrifying for human beings, the same is with dogs. Worse, they can go running to chase the ball, come back to you for a drink, collapse and be dead in seconds.
When a dog reaches 10 years old, it becomes more prone to cancer. Weakening of immune system that comes with age makes treatment more complex. But, half of known types of cancers in dogs can be treated if discovered at an early stage.
Golden Retriever is the breed that has strong incidence of cancer. More than half of the time, the dog dies of the ailment. This is two times the average rate of all other breed of dogs.
Signs and Symptoms
Manifestations of cancer in dogs are almost as similar to humans. Enlargement of lymph nodes, malignant tumors, excessive bleeding, wounds that never heal and swelling in the bones are some of these.
However, there are very little or minimal signs at the early stages of cancer. This is why it is highly advisable for you to immediately send your pets to the veterinarian where they are not feeling well or they significantly loss appetite.
Dog Cancer Nutrition
Genetic predisposition is the number cause of cancer in dogs. Advanced genome sequencing has been trying to help health experts come up with vaccinations that can prevent cancer to strike at some point.
It is also very important to watch out for your pet’s diet. The rule of thumb is to prepare a low carbohydrates but rich in Omega 3 fatty acids meal plan. Cancer cells proliferate in carbohydrates, while Omega 3 will provide nutrients to nourish your dog while it is fighting cancer.
Sources of Omega 3 include fish oil, flax seed oil, cod liver, olive oil and salmon oil. Make sure that the oil is not heated in any case, and only added at the end of the preparation. It is also suggested that you put some TLC and be hands-on on your dog’s diet. Steamed vegetables plus half cooked meat are good starters. If you still have time, pulverize using your food processor, so these can be easily digested. Eggs, tofu and garlic may be added to the regular meal.
Unlike humans, dog can’t speak to you and say which part of their body is not okay. This is why whether your dogs seem healthy; a regular visit to the veterinarian is still your best weapon against cancer.
