Alternative Cancer Treatment for Dogs

Canine cancer may be treatable if detected in the early stages. Ideally, the tumor should be removed and the dog should receive chemotherapy. However, the chemotherapy will have serious side effects. Some pet owners opt for alternative cancer treatment to avoid these side effects or as a last resort, when the dog doesn’t respond to any other treatment.

Cancer and the Immune System

Cancer is a disease that is greatly influenced by the function of the immune system. The immune system fights infections and heals the body, removing damaged cells (such as cancerous cells). If the immune system doesn’t work properly, cancer will be able to spread and take over the body. The alternative cancer treatments focus on healing the immune system and strengthen it, so that the dog can respond normally to infections and stop the spreading of the damaged cells.

If the immune system is restored to normal, a dog affected by cancer has high chances of remission.

Diet

A great part of the alternative treatment of cancer in dogs will be the modification of the diet, so that it contains ingredients that help the immune system.

The dog’s diet should be rich in fats and proteins and should also contain a healthy amount of fibers. There should be no artificial ingredients in the diet and a lot of alternative medicine practitioners recommend a home made diet for dogs with cancer.

Mushrooms such as Shiitake or Reishi should be added to the dog’s diet as they are strong antioxidants that boost the immune system and have anti inflammatory and anti microbial properties as well.

Herbs

There are a number of herbs that are effective in cancer treatment:

  • Red clover is a cell development inhibitor will also support the lymphatic system
  • Alfalfa or ginger will stop the cancerous cells from spreading
  • Astragalus may be used in dogs with skin cancer and it is also an immune system booster
  • Burdock root is a herb that facilitates toxin removal and supports the liver function
  • Echinacea, the Indian ginseng or the mistletoe will stimulate the immune system
  • Milk thistle may be used when the dog receive chemo to reduce the side effects

Supplements

The dog may receive a few supplements such as vitamin C or E and selenium, which will prevent the development of cancerous cells.

Extracts of Chlorella or soybean may also be used.

The dog may also receive flaxseed and fish oil, which support the immune system.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy is an alternative treatment option that used dilutions that combine different minerals and plants or animal compounds. These remedies will aim at restoring the balance of the immune system.

Other alternative therapies that may be used in cancer treatment include acupuncture or massage, which may restore balance in the dog’s system.

Alternative cancer treatments may be safely used in addition to traditional medication treatment or may also be used on their own.

 

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