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Dog Cancer Diagnosis

Veterinarian Reviewed on March 29, 2014 by Dr. Janice Huntingford

Dog Cancer Diagnosis

Signs and Symptoms

• Swelling that continues to increase

• The appearance of sores the take a long time to heal

Dog Weight Loss

Dog Loss of Appetite

• Discharge or bleeding from any part of the body

• Odor that is offensive

• Problems swallowing or eating

Dog Lethargy

• Some stiffness or lameness that does not go away

Dog Constipation

Dog Difficulty Breathing

• Problems urinating

While these symptoms are prevalent in Dog Cancer, some are also symptoms of other diseases. The basic caution for your treatment of your dog is a trip to the veterinarian for a diagnosis.

The diagnosis of cancer can be a horrible shock to an owner. There are however, steps you can take that will help both you and your dog. Your aim should be to give your dog a fighting chance and a good quality of life.

Steps you can take

First of all, do not panic. Cancer is one of the words everyone hates to hear. Regardless of the age of your beloved dog you do not want to hear that word as a diagnosis. Feelings of anger, fear, confusion and a bit of guilt are common and you should give yourself the opportunity to deal with all of these emotions. Your dog will need your strength for the battle.

Education helps. If you educate yourself as to the type of cancer your dog has, you will empower yourself to help your dog. There are many different types of this disease and by educating yourself you will relieve some of the mystery as well as being able to have some realistic goals as to the outcome. There are many decisions that you will be forced to make as treatment begins. Educating yourself will help you to make the right ones. You will know the potential prognosis for the type of cancer. You will also know what signs to look for to judge improvement or decline in your dogs condition. This is all empowering.

Friends and family will be a great resource for help and encouragement. It is important to gather your team together to accomplish the task. Your primary veterinarian is your first team member. They are familiar with your dogs history and can recommend the consultation with an oncologist who is current on all the treatments that may be available. Holistic veterinarians also have a place. They will deal with all aspects of your dog’s life and your own life to come to a desirable treatment plan. Surround yourself with people you trust.


Some dietary changes are in order

Studies show that a diet that is high in Dog Omega Fatty Acids such as Omega 3 acids and low carbohydrates accompanied by moderate protein is best. Often you will seek out the possibility of raw diets or even home cooked meals. This will depend on what your own beliefs are and what your veterinarian recommends. You may receive dietary supplements prescribed by your vet.

A dog that has been diagnosed with cancer will need to be protected from harmful chemicals. There are studies that show a link between the exposure to Dog Lawn Chemicals and household chemicals and cancer. You may also want to consider filtered water for additional protection.

Don’t give up. Take advantage of every day and share those days with your dog.

Suggested Products

Nu-Pet Vitamin & Antioxidant Wafers
Cancer Support Kit – Dogs

Additional Dog Cancer Pages

Dog Cancer | Dog Skin Cancer | Dog Lung Cancer | Dog Bladder Cancer | Dog Pancreatic Cancer | Dog Bone Cancer | Dog Cancer Prevention | Dog Lymphoma Cancer | Dog Gastric Cancer | Dog Mast Cell Tumors

Read also: Dog Basal Cell Tumor
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Our Expert

Dr. Janice Huntingford
Janice Huntingford, DVM, has been in veterinary practice for over 30 years and has founded two veterinary clinics since receiving her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph. She has studied extensively in both conventional and holistic modalities. Ask Dr. Jan

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