It’s Not a Lost Cause -Cancer Survivors Include Dogs!
October 20, 2009
We attach a guaranteed death sentence to this word because it strikes fear in our hearts, but its important to recognize that the connotations associated with cancer are not necessarily congruent with the reality of the situation. There is actually a relatively high probability of survival if there is early detection and treatment for cancer is applied early.
Fighting Cancer By Being Prepared
Still, cancer is certainly a very serious condition, and the chances of it taking hold increase with age. A visit to a vet should be taken every six months after the age of six – at this point getting dog insurance is crucial, though I stress again, as always, that you should from the first day you have your dog. Early detection is the key!
So What are the Options?
Cancer is invasive and can spread rapidly, so a mixture of treatments is required. These can be expensive and this is one of the reasons why having pet insurance is essential. We don’t expect these things to happen, but they do, and it is best to be prepared.
For tumors and skin cancer surgery, may be the best option. When the symptoms of cancer are localized it is best to just take it out. But for more invasive cancers radiotherapy, correct exercise, a good diet, and drug treatment are the essential factors. This is known as the holistic approach.
More Extreme Measures
To put it simply, there is no absolute cure for cancer yet available. The best that can be done for our older companions is to relieve the worst symptoms or undergo surgery. Your vet should be able to diagnose and locate the cancer, and if it is localized and not attacking an essential organ, then surgery is the obvious answer.
For advanced cancer or cancer in an essential organ, the only option is to slow the growth and boost your dog’s ability to fight it. Here, the advice of a vet is essential, and your insurance makes that continuous interaction possible.
Prevention is Better than any Cure
You’ve heard this again and again in so many areas of health that affect us. That’s because of how powerful and true this statement is. Any vet will tell you that a good diet and regular exercise will always help in the prevention of illness, and this includes cancer.
Cancer is far more often than not a result of poor lifestyle choices, whether they be choices made willingly or a product of society and cultural habit, of which even our pets fall prey. A good diet, regular exercise and regular checkups are as important to a dog as they are to you.
Try not to keep to a strict regime that never varies. Older dogs can get bored easily and therefore it is important to keep things fresh. This means varying diet, meal times and exercise routines. In the long run, good health always means good living.
Just keep in mind that cancer is not necessarily the end. Your vet can consult you on the best mode of attack in waging this war, and even when your dog develops cancer, continue stressing those lifestyle habits that keep their immune system strong. Cancer is a stressful condition for both your animal and you. Stay positive and search for answers. Your dog might be a story of success…
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