Understanding Cancer in Pets: Key Insights and Care Tips

In honor of National Cancer Awareness Month, we want to take a moment to highlight the importance of understanding cancer care for our pets.

As pet parents, a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially with so many treatment options and the need to make the best choice for our pets. Understanding the basics of cancer in pets and knowing what integrative options are available can help empower you to make informed, supportive decisions for your furry family members.

Cancer in pets, much like in humans, results from the abnormal growth of cells due to genetic mutations. These mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably, often leading to tumors and spreading to other parts of the body if not treated. Cancer can affect various tissues, giving rise to types like:

• Carcinomas: Arising from skin or organ linings, these may respond well to therapies, including cannabis compounds like CBD and THC.
• Sarcomas: Developing in connective tissues, these cancers often have unique responses to treatments.

The immune system typically identifies and eliminates abnormal cells, but factors like age, exposure to toxins, or genetic predispositions can weaken these defenses, allowing cancer to take hold. To support the immune system and protect against cancer, immune-supportive care and lifestyle choices are essential.

Diagnostic and Treatment Options

When facing a cancer diagnosis, understanding the available treatment landscape can guide you to the best path forward.

1. Diagnostics: Cancer is staged based on its spread, from localized (stage 1) to advanced (stage 4). Early detection tests, such as non-invasive urine and blood tests like the Oncotect urine test, can help identify cancer sooner, significantly improving the chances of effective treatment.. 
2. Conventional Treatments: Over the past 35 years, veterinary oncology has advanced significantly, adapting chemotherapy for safer, more manageable use in animals. Surgery is often the first option for localized tumors, aiming to achieve "clean margins" and reduce the chances of recurrence.
3. Emerging Therapies: New approaches, including cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and small-molecule therapies, are being developed to target cancer cells directly, with some vaccines already available to pet owners. These treatments may provide less invasive options or complement conventional therapies.
4. Cannabinoids in Cancer Care: CBD and THC are gaining recognition for managing symptoms and potentially slowing cancer progression, especially in cases like carcinomas. Pet parents are increasingly turning to these options to reduce chemotherapy side effects and improve comfort. Consulting an integrative veterinarian can help you safely explore these options.

Integrative medicine combines the best of conventional and alternative therapies, offering options that may be less invasive and gentler on your pet.

Natural Support for Cancer Therapy

Balancing conventional treatments with natural options like metronomic chemotherapy (low, continuous doses that prevent blood vessel formation for tumors) can reduce side effects. For a customized plan, consider working with both an oncologist and a holistic veterinarian.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Immune Support

Medicinal mushrooms, especially Turkey Tail, have shown promise in supporting dogs with cancer. Research indicates that Turkey Tail, rich in polysaccharide PSP, can boost survival rates and strengthen the immune system. A holistic vet can help you incorporate the right mushroom extract and dosage for your pet’s needs.

Integrative Cannabis Therapy

Cannabis therapy, particularly CBD with gradually introduced THC, may help reduce cancer cell growth, support appetite, and improve comfort. Studies suggest it can also alleviate the side effects of conventional treatments. Work with a vet experienced in cannabis therapy to safely explore its benefits for your pet.

Cancer-Friendly Supplements

Adding supplements to your pet’s cancer care can provide further immune support, antioxidant benefits, and even cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.

1. Antioxidants: These protect cells from damage, which is especially important during cancer treatment. Food-based antioxidants like blueberries, raspberries, and CBD-infused herbs offer gentle support. Key supplements to consider include:
   • Milk Thistle for liver support
   • Curcumin (from turmeric) for anti-inflammatory effects
   • Green Tea Extract (EGCG) for its antioxidant and potential cancer-fighting effects
2. Immune Modulators: Supplements like Reishi and Turkey Tail mushrooms, Beta-Glucans, and Astragalus Root help the immune system identify and target cancer cells, potentially preventing growth and spread.
3. Cytotoxic Compounds: Some supplements have direct anti-cancer effects, including:
   • Curcumin and Vitamin D for reducing cancer cell spread
   • IP-6 (Inositol Hexaphosphate), shown to normalize cancer cells and prevent tumor growth

These supplements should always be introduced under a vet’s guidance to ensure safe integration with existing treatments.

Dietary Adjustments

A diet rich in protein and healthy fats, while low in carbohydrates, may starve cancer cells, which often rely on sugars to thrive. A ketogenic diet encourages ketone production, which healthy cells can use but cancer cells struggle to process. Consult a veterinary nutritionist to develop a tailored cancer-friendly diet for your pet.

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine and Alternative Therapies

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) offers herbal formulations that can support cancer treatment by addressing issues like immune weakness and blood stagnation. Some options include:

• Wei Qi Booster™ for immune support
• Stasis Breaker™ to reduce tumor growth
• Yunnan Baiyao™ for managing bleeding in tumors like hemangiosarcoma

Alternative treatments such as Ozone Therapy, Mistletoe Injections, and High-Dose Vitamin C are also gaining traction for their immune-boosting and cancer-fighting properties.

Supporting a pet through a cancer diagnosis requires a compassionate and well-informed approach, combining both conventional and integrative therapies. By working closely with a knowledgeable veterinary team, you can tailor a holistic treatment plan that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and long-term health, ensuring they receive the best possible care at every stage of their journey.

If you're looking for additional support options, our team is here to help. Products like SilverDog Forte chews, Ultra EFA, 5 Defenders Capsules, and Immune Soft Chews can play a key role in boosting your pet's immune system and overall wellness during cancer treatment. Reach out to us for guidance on incorporating these into your pet's care plan.

For even more in-depth information on cancer care for pets, including how medicinal mushrooms and cannabis can help support their immune health, we invite you to explore the book There’s a Mushroom for That!. This comprehensive guide dives into natural remedies that may complement traditional treatments, offering valuable insights into how holistic therapies can promote your pet's well-being.