April 26, 2012
Posted in Common Pet Conditions, Pet Health, Pet Meds

Cancer is one of the most deadly diseases around for humans, and it is even more widespread (and just as deadly) in dogs and cats. In fact, cancer is the cause of death for about 50 percent of dogs over age 10, and about 33 percent of cats die from the disease. Just like with people, the cause of cancer is not exactly known. However, there has been enough research done to determine a few ways you can help lower your pet's chances of developing this illness.

Smoking

Of course, your pet is not likely to hit up the 7-Eleven for a pack of cigarettes, but studies have found that they suffer from secondhand smoke. In fact, studies have shown that pets from smokers' homes are more susceptible to bladder cancer. If you are a smoker, try to always smoke outside and away from your pooch. You could also try quitting – having a dog is part of a healthy lifestyle in more ways than one!

Diet

While a poor diet may not necessarily cause cancer, lacking the nutrients from higher-quality kibble can make a dog more susceptible to free radicals that cause it. If your dog prefers dry pet food, try a variety like Wellness Super5Mix, which has real de-boned meat as its first ingredient. This food also has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which have been proven to boost the immune system and help find and destroy cancer cells when they are first forming. Plus, this food has extra added vitamins and minerals that are specifically formulated to boost the immune system. This food has other benefits, too, like chondroitin and glucosamine for dogs to support joint health.

If your pet prefers wet food, try Go! Natural Canned Dog Food, which has ingredients fit for human consumption, plus the cancer-fighting fatty acids. There are also plenty of supplements to support your pooch's immune system. You can give it a pure source of omega-3 with Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet, or a whole food supplement like Be Well Dog.

Of course, if your dog does get cancer, there is an increasing amount of options to treat it. Depending on the type of cancer, the vet will recommend certain pet drugs or pet products to treat it. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are other options to beat the disease. 

Related posts:

1. How will cancer be treated in my dog?
2. Smoking kills – people and pets
3. Preventing corneal ulcers in dogs
4. How to make your pet’s immune system strong
5. How can diet help arthritis?