Preventative Measures to Ward Off Canine Cancer

Cancer is such a nasty disease that affects humans and pets alike. As technology improves over the years, studies for cures and preventatives give us a little more hope. As pet lovers there are now ways that we can help our dogs with preventative strategies to ward off this horrible disease. Some things that may help are -

• Provide pure drinking water as opposed to tap water. Some tap water contains chemicals such as lead, arsenic and nitrates. Holistic Vets highly recommend purchasing a purifier (which is a good thing for the whole family). It may appear costlier at first than bottled water but in the long run, it will only cost pennies a gallon. If you prefer, you can use bottled water instead. Pure water flushes toxins out of the body. Never let your dog drink stagnant, sitting water or water from puddles which can contain hazardous contaminants.

• Only have the utmost necessary vaccinations administered to your dog. Over-vaccinating a dog can cause stress to the immune system. Many veterinarians believe in a more natural approach as opposed to frequent and excessive vaccinations. Keeping your dog's immune system strong in any way possible may protect the possibility of contracting cancer.

• Veterinarians have long claimed that getting your dog spayed or neutered reduces the chances of your dog getting cancer. Female dogs that are spayed have a lesser chance of developing mammary tumors while neutered male dogs have a statistically lower rate of testicular cancer.

• Avoid indoor pollutants such as cigarette smoke. The toxic chemicals of second-hand smoke can cause lung cancer in humans as well as squamous cell carcinoma in cats. Dogs can be affected with sinus cancer and lymphoma. The more a person subjects their dog to second-hand smoke, the more at risk the animal is. Be sure to ventilate your home as well and as often as you can. Some plants are known to filter the air in your home, such as philodendrons, spider plants, aloe vera, gerbera daisies and chrysanthemums. Just be sure to keep plants out of the pet's reach. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and cleaners around the home as well and opt for more natural items such as vinegar and baking soda (which works wonders for many tasks in the home).

• Be aware of the ingredients in your dog's foods. You can go to a site at http://www.dogs-4life.com/dog-food-that-kills.html to determine if the food that you feed your dog is safe and chemical-free. Some foods can contain a variety of toxins and carcinogens that can contribute to the onset of cancer. Another concern is to keep your dog at a healthy weight. Obese dogs are not only prone to cancer but also heart conditions, joint problems, diabetes and breathing difficulties. A healthy, balanced and more natural diet helps to support your dog's natural defenses against cancer. Speak with your veterinarian as to an appropriate weight for your dog and a good wholesome chemical-free food for your dog's health and that good weight.

• Use natural flea products on your dog rather than the ones full of chemicals and poisons. There are shampoos and other products with pyrethrins which are a natural safe alternative for flea control. Because they are natural, they are not as strong and may need more frequent applications along with constant combing with a flea comb and vacuuming. You can use citrus based products as well, except for cats. For indoor care, use borates, salt, or diatomaceous earth into carpet or cracks between the wall and floor as an effective safe treatment.

• Avoid having your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck. Not only is there the danger of jumping out or being thrown out, your dog is inhaling toxic vehicle fumes.

• Keep your dog away from lawns treated with fertilizers and pesticides. There are products available that are more organic which do the same job. Also, keep dogs away from cocoa mulch which is toxic to your dog as well.

• Stresses your dog can also contribute in overworking the liver which can stagnate and create tumors. Some situations that can stress for your dog may be neglect, a multiple animal household, an owner going away on vacation, or an owner going through a divorce, just to name a few. Try to provide as much love in the household as possible, be aware that raised voices and yelling affects a dog (even if not directed at them) and try to keep a stress-free environment. It is best for the whole family as well.

• Research proves that exercise is vital for good well-being. It strengthens immunity to chronic diseases such as cancer. Exercises that you can enjoy with your dog will serve to benefit both of you. Activities to consider may be bicycling, hiking, jogging, in-line skating, and walking (at least 20 minutes a day). Not only is it healthy for both of you, it a great bonding time as well.

There is no guarantee of preventing cancer but there are always things that we can do to be healthier for ourselves as well as our dogs. The worst scenario . . . your dog will be healthier, happier and can live a longer fulfilling life.