Canine Cancer Awareness

Oct 30, 2011 by Rosemary

With great sadness, fear, surprise and shock families learn that their dogs have cancer. However, canines instinctively hide disease or weakness from their pack (you and your family) as a survival mechanism. The responsibility then falls upon you, your pets’ caretakers and your vets to be watchful for the subtle warning signs that could mean a health crisis. Here are ten common signs of cancer outlined from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

• Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow
• Sores that do not heal
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
• Offensive odor
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
• Persistent lameness or stiffness
• Difficulty breathing, urinating, or defecating

More importantly, before these warning signs appear, you might become aware of more subtle signs that could indicate trouble ahead:

- frequent infections
- stinky ears or weepy eyes
- itchiness or allergies
- hot spots
- excessive shedding or fur loss
- aggressive behavior
- any condition requiring medication
- lack of interest or appearing less active
- fleas
- overweight or underweight

According to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Center (2008), “dogs have much higher rates of many kinds of cancer than do people, including 35 times more skin cancer, 4 times more breast tumors, 8 times more bone cancer, and twice the incidence of leukemia.” Approximately 50 percent of older dogs die of cancer, making it the leading cause of death in dogs.

Despite genetic predisposition to cancer in some breeds or bloodlines, much can be done to avoid what seems to be inevitable. Be aware of the subtle signs and take steps to detoxify, provide the right nutrition, boost the immune system and provide as much as possible, a toxin-free environment. For more suggestions about natural health solutions that promote prevention of disease go to http://rosemaryssolutions.com/dog-health.html