Cancer can afflict dogs of any age or breed.
Those tumours can grow to impact organ and physical function and can also deplete the body by commandeering the blood system for its own life support.
Cancer comes in many forms and is their greatest cause of death.
There are no magic fixes but it doesn’t have to always be a death sentence, or at least not as quickly as we might be told, so don’t immediately think the worst. Increasingly many cancers, especially if caught early, can be treated successfully or at least slowed.
There are recent improvements in traditional oncology therapies of chemo, radiation and surgery that your vet knows about well, such as immunotherapy and targeted chemo and radiation that are early but exciting. Even more exciting is the now ample evidence of the benefits of nutritional and natural medicine therapies that amplify these good results.
But first…
Small and subtle changes in your dog’s behaviour or body can be the early indication of your dog’s cancer. A small lump or limp, a slowed gait or niggly cough or changes in appetite or weight. These can all be early indications of cancer, or other things too, so it’s important to stay mindful and observational (without being neurotic!).
Feel over your dog’s body regularly – that’s what cuddles and pats are also for! – and keep an eye or feel out for:
To be able to notice many of these changes, especially the lumps and bumps, it’s important that we are regularly feeling all over our dog’s body (including in paws and around ears and tail). The behavioural issues are of course more observational and remind us that it’s important to notice how they’re moving and what their poos are saying.
Now if your dog has been diagnosed and you feel you missed the early signs please don’t beat yourself up. Hindsight is annoying and unfair. Very few of us get it at first sign or immediately head to the vets (even if the vet would see it on first sign!), we can all just do our best. If your dog spends time in the company of others (walkers, minders, friends or family) be sure to ask them to observe and report to you on these things too.
All in all do your best from where you are. We’re here now.
Along with your traditional veterinary oncology treatment options of chemo, radiation and surgery we can support your dog with nutritional and natural medicine therapies that give them the best chance of recovery or slow progression.
Dogs can be affected by almost all cancers that humans are but there are some dominant types for canines overall and some dominant cancer types for certain breeds. The most common types of cancer overall are:
Mast cells form part of the skin and manage our response to allergens. Understandably then mast cell tumours (MCTs) are considered a form of skin cancer. Making up 20% of all skin cancers, MCTs are common. Many tumours are benign but some are malignant and can be dangerous.
Mast cell tumours are usually bulbous (from tiny to large, and can be uncomfortable). They can arise anywhere on the skin, be very invasive and often return after surgical removal. They can also metastasize to other parts of the body. It is important they are treated early, monitored and a corresponding low histamine diet is undertaken.
The MCTs are mostly full of histamine. These histamines are the result of allergic reactions and, if damaged and released into the body by a bump, jolt or getting too large, can cause an anaphylactic reaction that can affect skin, breathing and heart, sometimes fatally.
The current approach to managing MCTs is surgical removal but the medical consensus is that, once they emerge, they will continue to occur and likely with increasing frequency. Repeated surgeries have their own risks and limitations and are a pretty blunt tool for health management. If we can also slow the development of the MCTs, perhaps by managing the histamine input from foods, soothe the allergic system overall and keep the immune system strong, then we can potentially limit or slow recurrence and therefore the need for and impact of repeated surgeries.
I’m not suggesting a diet change or histamine reduction alone will cure the MCTs’ existence or recurrence at all, however I feel strongly that this healing thesis of not over taxing the mast cell system with histamines, and no relief, makes sense and has shown great results with many of our patients.
Check here for a list of high histamine foods, low histamine foods as well as histamine releasing foods, as well as my low histamine diet. It’s not easy to follow explicitly but understanding where your dog might be having overreactions and where you can make the most impact with diet adjustments could be really valuable and effective for you guys.
Breeds most at risk:
At 20% of all skin tumours MCTs are fairly common, however breeds especially at risk of MCTs are:
Beagles, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Bulldogs, Bull Mastiffs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Weimaraners.
Melanoma is a malignancy of the pigment-producing cells in the skin. They can occur in many locations on the body and the location is critical to how serious the tumour is. Melanomas can occur in the mouth, the nailbed, skin and eyes.
Oral Melanomas
Around 80% of melanomas are found in the mouth or ‘oral cavity’ (including tongue, hard and soft palate, lips and gums). They are typically seen in dogs over 10 years of age and mostly (not always) in smaller breeds.
Oral melanomas are generally considered ‘aggressive’ and often metastasise to the lymph nodes or lungs. Tumours can often be removed surgically but approximate 80-85% of these dogs will go on to develop metastatic disease.
Factors that can determine tumours as ‘less aggressive’ are generally those being ‘rostrally located’, are less than 2cm in size when diagnosed, have no bone invasion, or are on the top of mucocutaneous junction.
What to look for:
Oral melanoma is usually diagnosed after the dog’s human has noticed especially bad breath (halitosis) or a protruding mass or swelling, which may or may not have caused changes to appetite or eating behaviours. Dental examinations may also identify lesions.
Nailbed Melanoma
Melanoma in the nailbed, or subungual crest, is the 2nd most common location for melanoma, occurring in 15-20% of instances.
These nail melanomas have a similar metastatic rate as oral melanomas, especially in the first instance to the local lymph node. “This would include the superficial cervical nodes and axillary nodes if the tumor is located on a front foot, and the popliteal nodes if the tumor is located on a hind foot.”[1]
What to look for:
Nailbed melanomas usual appear as a solitary lesion, with dogs generally showing lameness on the offending paw, or their human has noticed swelling, bleeding or oozing from the offending toe. These sores can often initially seem like an injured nail that won’t heal.
Dermal Melanoma
Dermal melanomas usually appear as a ‘darkly pigmented dermal mass’ either individually or in multiples. When confined to ‘haired skin’ they are benign in 85-90% of cases and cured with surgical removal.
If they have extended to vascular or lymphatic invasion, have an invasive growth pattern or a biopsy shows a high mitotic rate (3 or more) they are considered ‘aggressive’. Any cutaneous melanoma located on a mucocutaneous junction (lip area, anus, vulva etc) is much more likely to be aggressive and should be treated as malignant. In aggressive instances your oncology vet may recommend other therapies, such as chemo or radiation, in addition to surgical removal.
What to look for:
Dark pigmented masses on the skin however in rare cases they can affect subcutaneous tissue.
Ocular Melanoma
These ‘melanocytic tumours’ can also affect the eye as ‘eyelid, conjunctival masses, limbal melanocytomas and uveal tumours’. Most ocular melanocytic tumours are technically benign but they can cause issues for the eye as they grow. Often those located on the eyelid, conjunctival area or eye wall (uveal) are malignant.
Malignant melanomas elsewhere in the body can metastasise to the eye.
Breeds mostly at risk:
Airedale Terriers, Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Chows, Dobermans, Golden Retrievers, Mini-Schnauzers, Vizlas are most likely to be affected but any breed can be diagnosed with melanoma.[2] Dogs with black skin and fur are more at risk of malignant nailbed growths. Especially Schnauzers and Scottish Terriers.
Commonly affects ages 5-11.
[1] https://upstatevet.com/2018/11/melanoma-location-location-location/
[2] https://upstatevet.com/2018/11/melanoma-location-location-location/
Canine lymphomas represent 7-14% of all cancer diagnoses in dogs. It is actually a diverse group of cancers derived from white blood cells called ‘lymphocytes’. Lymphocytes are part of the immune system and help protect the body from infection.
Lymphoma can affect any organ in the body but usually arises in organs that form the immune system such as lymph nodes, thymus, spleen and bone marrow. Other common locations include the skin, eye, central nervous system and bone.
Although common, its causes and origin are not well understood. Veterinary manuals and research universities note possible causes or contributing factors as ‘viruses, bacteria, chemical exposure and strong magnetic fields’ [2] as well as ‘genetic abnormalities and dysfunction in the immune system’. [1]
Types of Lymphoma:
Most types of lymphoma are high-grade and involve T cells or B cells. They are generally categorised by the location in the body that they occur:
[1] https://www.msdvetmanual.com/dog-owners/blood-disorders-of-dogs/malignant-lymphoma-in-dogs
[2] https://vet.purdue.edu/pcop/canine-lymphoma-research.php
If you’re reading this I know it’s possible that your dog has just been diagnosed with cancer. If that’s the case I’m so sorry. I know it’s devastating.
My heart goes out to you; I’m so glad you’re here. It’s my goal here that you will have the information I once needed really quickly so you too can give your dog their best shot at treating it effectively.
The good news is that you can do a lot to help your dog and complement your veterinary oncology care with good nutrition, natural medicine and some natural therapies.
Especially if you get it early or even have them on a good diet before cancer ever arrives.
Please get in touch if you need help. I’m here for you, and your loved dog.
What you can do to help
How nutrition and natural medicines can help
Moringa is good for our dogs and us as it has antifungal, antiviral, antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties (and more!). We think it should be in every dog’s pantry and food bowl.
How our range can help
Choose from a range of our products to help fight the cancer.
This paper discusses iodine intake requirements for humans, dogs and cats. It notes that dietary iodine is around >90% bioavailable compared to synthetic supplements, which are variable. It concludes that “Chronic iodine excess or deficiency may result in clinical disease”…
Myrrh was mentioned more frequently than any other plant in Hippocrates’ medical writings and of course its known for being a gift of the Kings. The Truth About Cancer gives their view on Myrrh here.
This delicious blend of beef, liver, our Vita Veggie Mix and ‘Miracle’ Greens is easy, healthy and the perfect dog dinner. This recipe makes a 4 kilo batch of food that you can freeze into portions, then thaw and serve…
Moringa Experts Say… Moringa Oleifera provides 36 natural anti-inflammatory agents, 46 antioxidants and all essential amino acids that help protect cells from free-radical damage. Experts Say… Moringa Oleifera provides 36 natural anti-inflammatory agents, 46 antioxidants and all essential amino acids that help protect cells from free-radical damage. 10 times the Vitamin A of Carrots 12…
A fantastic summary of evidence regarding iodine and cancer which notes ‘the molecular effects of iodine as well as ongoing epidemiological evidence points to its probable role in prevention of cancers through its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, prodifferentiating, and proapoptotic effects.’
Experts Say… “The molecular effects of iodine as well as ongoing epidemiological evidence points to its probable role in prevention of cancers through its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, prodifferentiating, and proapoptotic effects.” Tina Kaczor, ND, Editor in Chief, Natural Medicine Journal What I Did Iodine deficiency is considered to be widespread among humans and dogs – mostly…
Moringa is good for our dogs and us as it has antifungal, antiviral, antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties (and more!). We think it should be in every dog’s pantry and food bowl.
This paper discusses iodine intake requirements for humans, dogs and cats. It notes that dietary iodine is around >90% bioavailable compared to synthetic supplements, which are variable. It concludes that “Chronic iodine excess or deficiency may result in clinical disease” and that intake should be consistent. It’s complex!
Research indicates mushrooms have possible anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and liver protective activities. These six mushrooms are some of the most well-researched, rich in polysaccharides and beta glucans, the primary immune-enhancing constituents.
Experts Say… Frankincense and myrrh are considered potentially highly effective in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. What I Did Chronic inflammation is considered an amplification factor in cancer and was one of the key principles I focused on in supporting Ruby’s cancer treatment. I wanted to do everything I could to help reduce inflammation. The…
Experts Say… “.. (our studies in) Vitamin C, better our understanding of how diverse it is in protecting our health, from … cancer, [and building our] immunity to liv(e) longer.” Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, University of Michigan What I Did Vitamin C is not considered essential to dogs as, when they are in a healthy…
Until Ruby’s cancer I’d never thought of turmeric beyond delicious curries. But it was THE most recommended natural therapeutic agent when people heard of her cancer challenge. I quickly learned that turmeric is not just a spice, it is one of the most effective natural medicines on the planet.
Myrrh was mentioned more frequently than any other plant in Hippocrates’ medical writings and of course its known for being a gift of the Kings. The Truth About Cancer gives their view on Myrrh here.
Experts Say… I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. What I Did Cartilage as a potential treatment for cancer has been studied for decades – both from cows and sharks. The theory is…
Natural health guru, Dr Edward Group, shares 8 health issues to keep in mind with regard to iodine deficiency in dogs. He notes seaweed has an abundance of naturally occurring iodine making it a great way to boost your dog’s nutrition, and the 48% reduction in dog cancer since 1982 when iodine was introduced in commercial dog foods.
Studies tell us curcumin in turmeric helps fight cancer. A Harvard-trained, integrative oncologist shares his excitement for curcumin as an anti-cancer agent and easily explains the overall research that supports his interest. If you’re interested in how it works, for humans and dogs, to fight cancer this is a great article.
In 2015 a study found vitamin C can kill tumour cells that carry a common cancer-causing mutation – in mice. In fact, many studies are investigating the therapeutic potential of Vitamin C, especially as a potential cancer treatment. This article explains various study outcomes and how intravenous dosing is seemingly most effective.
The good folks at The Truth About Cancer explain the exciting research into turmeric for cancer treatments as well as other health issues. There is more research to do but curcumin (the active ingredient) is showing real promise in helping to alleviate cancer, pain and inflammation.
Experts Say… The Hunzas of Northern Pakistan are known for their longevity, some living 135+ years; they have no known cancers and eat massive amounts of apricot kernels. What I Did This was the first and probably most controversial treatment I investigated and pursued for Ruby. Years earlier I had observed positive results (anecdotal of…
Holistic vet, Dr Rose DeLeva, writes that she has used intravenous Vitamin C therapy for dogs with cancer for almost 20 years with fantastic results. Not remissions, but almost always improved quality of life and often valuable extended life spans beyond prognosis. She says Vitamin C is one of the most potent biological antioxidants on the planet.
Moringa is nature’s anti-inflammatory miracle for dogs. Known as The Miracle Tree, it is recognised by America’s most conservative health and cancer institutions as being effective in reducing tumour size and proliferation. I credit Moringa as being a key contributor to Ruby’s remission. That’s why it’s in our Miracle Greens and Kanga Kisses.
Almost 1,500 years before the Magi brought gifts of frankincense and myrrh to Bethlehem, the ancient Egyptians included them among their vast materia medica. Some 2,000 prescriptions are recorded
High dose vitamin C therapies are increasingly reporting positive results in cases previously deemed as ‘no hope’, especially with some cancer cases. This article, written by a practicing vet, conveys results from his trials in high dose vitC in dogs with cancer, as well as other life-threatening illnesses showing its benefits and continuing promise.
Long-term inflammation, rather than helping the body, is known to underpin many health issues including arthritis and cancer. Boswellic acid may help.
Some of the earliest uses of the camel as a domesticated beast of burden were in Arabia to make overland transport of frankincense and myrrh possible. Its historic use has helped carve our modern life.
Modern science is finally proving what Chinese medicine has known for 3,000+ years, many medicinal mushrooms have powerful healing abilities – including anti-tumoural.
Studies are showing that stressful dog life events can deplete dogs of their innate supply of Vitamin C and they can benefit from VitC supplementation. Experiments trialling Vitamin C therapy in life threatening health issues, such as parvo virus, are often having great and surprising success. Vitamin C is a vitalising winner for dogs.
Experts Say… Medicinal mushrooms have been approved, effective and safe adjuncts to standard cancer treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy, in Japan and China for more than 30 years What I Did Numerous clinical and anecdotal studies have shown many types of medicinal mushrooms to indicate anti-cancer benefits in various contexts, both as an individual supplement…
Turkey tail is the humble fungus at the centre of a $5.4M collaboration between Bastyr University, the University of Washington and others, funded by the NIH.
Researchers discovered how curcumin helps fight cancer at a cellular level. Through x-ray crystallography researchers see curcumin bind to a specific kinase enzyme at the atomic level. This leads to its inhibition which “impairs cell proliferation and reduces cancer burden”. But curcumin alone may not be sufficient…
Experts Say… Researchers have found that selenium favorably modulates gene expression to suppress a protein involved in tumor onset, growth, and metastasis. What I Did Concern about the spreading of the cancer to other parts of the body (metastasis), whether before the surgery or after, was a key issue in limiting the escalation of Ruby’s status in her…
This article from Dogs Naturally Magazine (check them out) explains that seaweeds are the best green foods for dogs as, besides being super nutrient dense, their cells are not surrounded by cellulose which is difficult for dogs to digest. They are thought to boost the immune system, promote longevity and may help in reducing cancer.
Science of Moringa says it has antitumour, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, antispasmodic, diuretic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective (protective of the liver), antibacterial and antifungal properties. That’s why it’s in our Miracle Greens and Kanga Kisses.
This delectable recipe for dogs blends lamb mince, lamb hearts and liver, our Vita Veggie Mix and ‘Magic’ Golds and is easy, healthy and a treat of a dog dinner that all dogs love! This recipe makes a 4 kilo batch of food that you can freeze into portions, then thaw and serve fresh from…
This healthy dog recipe is a super healthy, easy and affordable breakfast that will have them licking the bowl clean, boosting their immunity and soothing inflammation. My dogs get a version of this for brekkie most days.
Puppies (especially large breed ones like Romeo) have high energy needs which oats can provide. Oats are super nutritious, full of B vitamins and antioxidants, they provide good, clean energy and soluble fibre.
