Many dog owners want to know how to take care of a dog with cancer. Cancer is not necessarily a deadly disease and offering the needed care may save your pet. However, when the cancer is detected in the later stages, the condition will be fatal, so you will need to care for your pet to ensure that he is comfortable and you may even extend his life.
Administering the Meds and Treatment
Cancer may have several treatment options, which can include medication treatment, surgery or radiation therapy. Your vet will recommend the best course of treatment and you will have to administer the meds according to the vet’s recommendations. Don’t increase the dose if the dog’s condition seems to worsen and don’t reduce the dose if your dog shows signs of improvement. If chemotherapy is recommended, this can be pricey. If you cannot afford the treatment, you should ask for alternative treatment, which is available in some cases. Cortisone treatment may be effective in some types of cancer and may reduce the development of the cancerous cells. Administer the pain medication as indicated by your vet.
Make sure you pay a visit to your vet on a regular basis, as tests will be needed to monitor the evolution of the cancer.
Arranging the Dog’s Environment
The dog will have to be kept in a warm environment. You will also have to arrange a soft and comfortable bed, which will ensure your dog can rest and gets the necessary sleep. The dog’s room should be quiet and if you have other pets, these should be kept in a different room.
Feeding the Dog
Typically, a dog with cancer will receive a different diet, which will be poor in fats and will contain more fibers. Supplements may also be needed to provide support for the immune system.
The dog may have a poor appetite and you will have to make your dog eat. If your dog refuses to eat for several days, you will have to check with your vet and possibly administer IV fluids.
Offer Attention
The prognosis for a dog with cancer may be variable. In the best case scenario, the tumor is removed and it may never grow back. In the worst case scenario, your dog will have only a few weeks left to live. Regardless of the prognosis, you will have to offer extra attention to your dog and make sure he has all he needs to be comfortable. If your dog is able to play, make sure you initiate some enjoyable activities. If your dog is disabled or becomes incontinent, make sure you make arrangements so that the dog will be comfortable at all times. Install some ramps in the house or get some canine diapers for your pet.
Decide if Euthanasia Is a Solution
If the prognosis for your pet is unfavorable and the medication treatment will only extend the dog’s life for a few weeks, your vet may recommend euthanasia. This can be a humane solution, as in the last stages of the dog’s life, he may experience symptoms such as bleeding and severe pain. Euthanasia may be the best solution to eliminate the dog’s pain and discomfort.