Administering vitamin C for dogs with cancer can be an efficient way to restore your pet's former energy and vitality. Canine cancer does not necessarily mean the end of your pet's life and in some cases, if the disease is detected in an early stage, it may be treatable.
Cancer in Dogs
Cancer is a disease of uncontrolled cell growth; the cells that grow are malignant and will tend to spread all over the pet's body. The dog's natural mechanism can't control the cell growth. Cancer is typically a disease of older age, but may also be found in younger pets. The exact causes of cancer are not known. There may be a genetic correlation because there is an increased incidence of the disease in certain breeds, but exposure to certain toxins or sun may also be linked to the occurrence of cancer in some dogs.
Vitamin C for Dogs
A healthy dog's body is capable of generating a healthy amount of vitamin C, especially if the dog gets a balanced diet. The vitamin C generation doesn't happen when the dog has a serious illness such as cancer. In this situation, dog owners have to supplement the dose of vitamin C.
Vitamin C for Dogs with Cancer
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and it is also needed in dogs with cancer, as they no longer generate vitamin C in their bodies. Antioxidants can slow the growth of cells in some types of cancer. The most effective antioxidants are:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Selenium
The recommended dose for vitamin C is 20 to 100 mg twice a day, depending on the size of the pet. Combining vitamin C with selenium and vitamin E, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory drug, can be beneficial for dogs with cancer.
Side Effects of Vitamin C
A proper dose of vitamin C can help the dog's body to activate its natural regenerative power. Vitamin C may have some side effects.
Vitamin C IV injections must be given intravenously, as these are more effective than oral vitamins. This therapy is quite safe, but it is not recommended for dogs with urinary stones (calcium oxalates). An overdose of vitamin C can cause gas or diarrhea.
Dog owners shouldn't use vitamin C simultaneously with chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as it reduces the effectiveness of these treatments.
Natural Cancer Treatment
A healthy diet is very important in dogs with cancer. A low carbohydrate (3 to 13 percent), high-fat ( up to 55 percent) diet is recommended, as cancer cells can't grow as fast with fats but thrive on carbohydrates. The protein content should be maintained at a level that is sufficient for tissue repair (18 to 22 percent).
Supplements such as vitamins and antioxidants can strengthen the immune system, improve appetite, reduce the exhaustion caused by traditional treatments and stabilize DNA:
- Beta carotene
- Ginkgo biloba
- Green tea
- Grape seed extract
- Omega 3 fatty acids
- Coenzyme Q10
- Echinacea
Herbs are also effective in the cancer treatment. Milk thistle and ashiwagandha are some of the plants boosting white blood cells in the body, increasing your pet's energy and overall quality of life.