Canine Cancer Awareness Basics

By Debbie Revell, owner of Pets Behave

Research suggests that environmental pollutants and chemicals in food are major factors in the development and support of many cancers. If an animal can be kept in excellent health with good food, adequate exercise, access to fresh air and sunshine, and a stable emotional environment, the immune system will be strong. Whereas a weaker animal might succumb to the effects of carcinogens, the strong one will more likely resist and detoxify them. Prevention is really the most we can do. No drug or vaccine can ever take the place of good health.

Methods of cancer prevention include:

• Spaying and neutering pets before they reach sexual maturity to prevent cancers of reproductive organs;
• Feeding your pet a fresh, natural diet free of byproducts or harmful chemicals;
• Supplementing with vitamins C, A, and E, as well as zinc and selenium (all powerful antioxidants);
• Avoiding tap water, instead providing filtered, distilled, or spring water;
• Avoiding unnecessary vaccinations;
• Minimizing your pet’s exposure to toxic yard products, common contributors to cancer;
• Reducing the amount of conventional medications and parasite-preventing drugs prescribed to your pet.

Be aware of the following symptoms, which may indicate cancer:
• Lumps and bumps, especially new ones, those that grow quickly, decrease in size, disappear and then reappear, enlarge, or that change color or bleed;
• Skin sores or irritated areas;
• Red spots on the skin, gums, or mucous membranes;
• Wounds that do not heal;
• Weight loss or gain;
• Lack of appetite or decreased appetite;
• Abdominal enlargement (potbellied appearance);
• Weakness or exercise intolerance;
• Excessive panting or heavy breathing;
• Collapse;
• Pale gums or mucous membranes;
• Bad breath;
• Bleeding or chronic discharge from wounds or any body orifice;
• Change in bowel habits (chronic diarrhea, vomiting or both);
• Change in urinary habits (blood in urine or urinary incontinence).