Dogs get cancer at an alarming rate. In fact, research tells us that about 1 in 4 dogs get cancer and that almost 1 in 2 dogs over 10 years of age will die from canine cancer related disease. The good news is that if you can take action to prevent your dog from getting cancer.
Here’s Five Ways to Prevent Canine Cancer
1) Spay / Neuter
Statistics indicate that female dogs have a much lower risk of developing mammary tumors. Male dogs that are neutered have a statistically lower rate of testicular cancer.
Spaying/neutering your dog is one way, according to many studies and veterinarians, of helping to prevent the onset of cancer in your dog.
2) Fewer Vaccinations
Many veterinarians now consider a number of factors before suggesting a vaccine for your dog.
Some problems attributed to frequent vaccinations include adverse consequences, suppressed immune systems, and impaired health which can shorten your dog’s life.
Many veterinarians now believe that a more natural, common sense approach to vaccinations is best for your dog, as opposed to frequent and excessive vaccinations for any potential eventuality.
By keeping your dog’s immune system strong, with fewer attacks by vaccines that are not necessary, you may protect your against the possibility of contracting cancer. Ask you vet for a thorough explanation of why your dog needs any recommended vaccine.
3) Know What’s in Your Dog’s Food
Whether your dog food is kibble or canned dog food, there exists a variety of toxins and carcinogens that can contribute to the onset of cancer. To preclude the ingestion of these toxic elements by your dog, eliminate any suspect commercial dog food.
Another approach is to make your own dog food. If you opt for this approach be certain that the dog food that you prepare is healthy and nutritious for your dog. You may choose among a variety of approaches such as raw, cooked or a combo dog food diet incorporating both raw and cooked food.
The Whole Dog Journal, a respected publication on dog health and dog care, says that your dog’s diet should include whole meat, vegetables, fruit, grain and high-quality dietary fats.
4) Vitamins and Supplements
We daily give our dogs an antioxidant supplement. Antioxidants help the body prevent the formation of free radicals and protect against canine cancer onset. Some examples of antioxidants include: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, selenium, lycopene, and beta-carotene.
Antioxidants are also present in foods and many holistic vets feel that natural or whole food is the best antioxidant source available for your dog.
Ask you vet about the proper usage and dosage for your dog, and to determine if there is any reason that your dog should not use any specific antioxidant, vitamin, mineral or supplement
5) “Detox” Your Dog’s Environment
Dogs pick up pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals everywhere in your house and yard. Toxic for both you and your dog, these can potentially cause cancer in your dog. Topical pesticides used for fleas, ticks and other varmints may be more harmful to your dog than the problem it is meant to alleviate.
Keep in mind that the pesticide that you are applying to your dog’s skin is formulated to kill, and this toxic agent may absorb into your dog’s skin and into her bloodstream.
Dr. Richard Pitcairn, DVM, PhD, in his book, Natural Health for Dogs and Cats, explains that diagnostic X-rays can be dangerous to your dog. When you visit the dentist, you will be covered to protect you against radiation dangers when your teeth are x-rayed. The doctor will step out of the room before the x-ray is taken. Your dog is at risk as well if exposed to repeated exposure to radiation via x-ray.
Contaminants found in your tap water can be another problem for your dog. Many of these are either toxic or potentially cancer causing. Many holistic vets and dog nutritionists recommend installing a filter or using bottled water in your home to remove these contaminants
There is no guarantee that you will prevent your dog from getting cancer. But, the ideas above which are suggested by many prominent veterinarians will contribute to your dog’s good health and in keeping her immune system strong.
Should cancer occur, she will have a better chance at fighting canine cancer under treatment by a veterinary oncologist than a dog whose system had been subjected to, and attacked, by toxins and environmental causes unchecked.
If you have any question about your dog’s health, or suspect cancer or any other illness, contact your veterinarian immediately.