Understanding the Terms that Define your Dog's Cancer by Stephen Becker
Sometimes changes can be so subtle that you completely overlook them. Chances are you did notice that you dog seemed a little listless was not as frisky or energetic. Chalk it up to not feeling well. Then you noticed he she no longer felt like eating was losing weight. All of sudden you put these together the alarm bells go off. You rush him her to the vet. They do a blood workup take a few x rays while you sit wait. Finally you are called back into the exam room with your faithful companion for the results. your dog has cancer.
Cancer in dogs much like the human equivalent of the disease is an all too common problem. There are so many types treatments grades stages protocols. The pressure to know what is best for your dog is intense unrelenting.
The medical term for cancer is 'neoplasia'. Neo means 'new' plasia means growth. Combining them you get 'new growth'. The two forms of cancer are Benign Malignant. Malignant tumors are the biggest worry as they invade destroy spread through the lymphatic circulatory systems.
An accurate diagnosis as to the type of cancer your dog has is provided by a pathologist who examines a sample under a microscope. Benign tumors have formed edges are easier to identify remove. Malignant tumors look more like an octopus. The tentacles are difficult to remove without removing healthy tissue. Unless all of it removed it will likely grow back.
Approximately half of all dog cancer is skin tumors; sixty percent is benign. The next most common form of cancer in dogs is mammary tumors with half diagnosed as benign. Only ten percent of tumors in dogs are in the digestive system ten percent in the lymphatic system five percent in the reproductive system the remaining five percent are a variety of types.
Some breeds are more prone to specific types of cancer than others. Giant breed dogs are more likely to develop bone cancer. Large breeds such as the Golden Retriever German Shepherd Standard Poodle Giant Schnauzers are prone to develop malignant spleen tumors.
The basic terminology veterinarians use to describe dog cancer can be as confusing as how best to treat it. Terms like Stage Grade Metastasis are daunting to an already scared layperson but are simply basic descriptions.
There are three primary terms used when describing cancer in dogs Stage Grade Metastasis. Stage is used to notate how far along the tumor is. You may recall your vet saying the tumor is in the 'early' stages. The earlier the better Early or late the cancer need not be confined to one area of the body; there could be multiple sites Vets use 'Grade' to describe the cancer's tendencys like how aggressive it on a scale of 1 4 4 being the worst prognosis how quickly it will spread. METASTASIS describes the spread of a cancer i. e. King's liver cancer has metastasized to his lungs.
Dog Cancer Protocols How you treat your dogs cancer is an important often heart wrenching decision. Although chemotherapy is an option research the type of cancer your dog has the prognosis of the disease the overall advantages in trying radiation therapy. Second even third opinions are a vital step in dog cancer treatment if there is canine oncologist available in your area book an appointment for you your four legged friend.
Most likely the cause of the cancer is in your home. The likely suspects are household cleaners artifical air fresheners water food pesticides insecticides other toxic substances that are in close proximity to your dog. Make sure you use metal or ceramic food dishes. Provide clean filtered water change it after every meal.
If you take your dog to a holistic veterinarian they will view your dog as a whole living breathing organism. When all systems are in balance your dog is healthy. When he she is not healthy out of balance their approach is to determine which parts of your dog are out of balance nourish them back to health with all natural supplements even if they have cancer A healthy diet is critical. If you can't make the time to prepare your dogs meals then research the web for the best all natural dog food fortify it by administering soil based probiotics vital pet lipids minerals super pet enzymes for maximum digestion nutrition absorption. In fact even if you are giving them the best organic foods they still need natural supplements to aid digestion absorption skin muscle joint elasticity as well as to maintain optimal digestive balance intestinal flora. This regimin is especially important should you opt for chemotherapy radiation.
The next step is the first step along with finging eliminating toxic chemical cleaners air fresheners . Focus on your dog's digestive system. Not well known but it makes up 80% of his her total immune system The other 20% relies heavily on the intestinal system being in balance to provide its' nutritional requirements. You can spend a fortune on the finest cuts of meat but if your dog's digestive system is not performing optimally most of the meat will go to waste. Literally The right compliment of supplements not only helps to overcome cancer they provide your dog with precisely what he she needs to live the longest healthiest happiest life possible. Isn't that what dog ownership is about
Antioxidants Vitamin C Vitamin A selenium zinc all help strengthen support your dogs immune system. There are many herbs homeopathic supplements that help fight dog cancer a visit or consult with an expert in canine nutrition is mandatory step in natural cancer treatment in dogs.
Sunshine exercise love are all vital to your dogs fight with cancer. Even if he is feeling sluggish get him outside in the fresh air encourage him to chase a ball or go for a walk. Depression is part of the disease we all know how much a little exercise can help release natural endorphins alleviate stress.
The good news is that dog cancer is treatable without resorting to radiation or chemo. The internet is great source of knowledge but it also contains a lot of disinformation. While you are learning about your choices make sure you give your dog plenty of love attention. It is impossible to know how much time you have left together. Chances are he she is scared but unable to express it.
What will you do if your dog has cancer all natural dog cancer program Understanding the Terms that Define your Dog's Cancer
