Dogs can suffer from the same types of cancer as humans. But there are plenty of cancer-fighting dog foods out there, and they're all readily available at your grocery store.
Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs. Dogs are 35 times more likely to get skin cancer than humans, 8 times more likely to get bone cancer, and 2 times more likely to get leukemia.
Research predicts that 1 in 4 dogs will eventually develop cancer and that nearly 50% of dogs over the age of 10 will develop it.
Most common types of cancer in dogs
lymphoma– can affect any breed at any age. More common in dogs than in humans. Lymphoma accounts for 24% of all new canine cancer cases.
Melanoma Bucal– most commonly occurs in the mouth or on the skin. Malignant melanoma is aggressive and often spreads to other parts of the body.
osteosarcoma– the most common type of bone cancer in dogs. It represents 85% of all skeletal tumors.
hemangiosarcoma– a type of cancer that most often affects the spleen, but can also affect the liver, heart, and skin.
mast cell tumors– Immune cells known as mast cells are associated with skin allergies.
transitional cell carcinoma– the most typical tumor of the urinary system for dogs
What are the signs of cancer in dogs?
A cancer diagnosis is terrifying for anyone. Hearing that your best friend has it is heartbreaking. Early detection could save your dog's life. Therefore, it is important to be in tune with your dog so that you notice any changes in him. And when you do, take them to the vet right away.
Here are some signs to watch out for;
- Abnormal or rapidly growing nodules
- Wounds that don't heal
- Loss of appetite and weight loss.
- Bleeding or discharge from body openings
- Difficulty eating, swallowing, or breathing
- Difficulty urinating or defecating
Get 6 monthly wellness checks with your vet.
Early detection saves lives!
What is the importance of nutrition in cancer prevention?
Your dog's diet plays a very important role in his health and well-being. There are some foods that have been shown to be effective in strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body.
Although foods cannot completely stop cancer, some foods can reduce cancer risk. In fact, research shows that up to 35% of cancers in humans can be caused by poor diet. The same goes for dogs. As we always say, prevention is better than cure.
How can phytochemicals help?
According to research, the usephytochemicalssupplementing a healthy diet can help prevent cells from turning into cancerous tumors.
Phytochemicals are organic substances found in plants. Many of these plants have been used as medicine for thousands of years to prevent and treat disease.
Compared to vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients have a significantly longer duration of action in the body. However, along with certain vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients are like a superfood to help reduce your dog's risk of cancer.
Foods that contain phytochemicals are:
- cabbage
- broccoli
- cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts and cabbage.
- lindo
- Cantaloupe
- pera
- spinach
- apples
- green tea
Here are 10 easily accessible cancer-fighting foods that can help prevent cancer in your dog.
1. apples
The dietary fiber and polyphenol compounds in apples work with gut microbes to promote an environment that can helpdecrease the risk of cancer.
They contain anti-angiogenic properties that prevent the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing blood vessel walls, which is a common mechanism for cancer to develop into tumors.
Read more about Apple's benefits atFeed profile page.
IMPORTANT:Be sure to remove the seeds and core. The seeds contain small amounts of toxins, not suitable for digestion.
2. Blueberries
Berries are full of phytochemicals and antioxidants, especially blueberries.antioxidantswork to protect cells against free radicals and inflammation, helping to preventCancer. Plus, they contain ellagic acid, which helps block metabolic pathways that can lead to cancer. As well as anthocyanins that reduce cell proliferation and inhibit the formation of tumors.
Read more about the benefits of blueberries atFeed profile page.
3.Broccoli
Rich in phytochemicals, vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants that fight cancer-causing free radicals. Also packed with vitamins A, C, and D, as well as a natural anti-inflammatory that collectively work to support immune health.
Glucosinates, abundant in broccoli, are converted into biologically active substances with anticancer effects. They inactivate carcinogens, prevent DNA damage, and cause tumor cell death.
4.carrots
carrotsThey contain provitamin A, also known as beta-carotene. They are rich in phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals that support the immune system, aid digestion, and fight cancer-causing free radicals.
5. Cruciferous vegetables
The cruciferous family includes Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, rutabagas, kohlrabi, bok choy, and turnips. They contain glucosinolates which are associated with decreased inflammation, thus reducing the risk of cancer.
According to recent studies, chemicals in cruciferous vegetables "turn on" genes that suppress tumors, stop tumor growth, and encourage cancer cells to self-destruct.
6. kale
Look forshows that carotenoids in dark green leafy vegetables, such as kale, can function as antioxidants and strengthen the body's natural defenses against free radicals.
These safety measures help prevent free radicals from damaging DNA, which can lead to cancer. Kale contains antioxidants that work to prevent the synthesis of carcinogens in cells, which can lead to cancer.
7. Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and fish oil are well known to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of cancerous tumors. In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D3 in fish and fish oil is an essential ingredient in cancer prevention.
High-quality proteins like sardines, salmon, herring, cod, mackerel, and shellfish are the best sources of omega-3s. These fish are also rich in useful vitamins and minerals. Including calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium and potassium. As well as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Alternatively, you can use all-natural supplements that can be easily added to your dog's bowl.
Omega-3 fatty acids have other benefits for your dog. Helps keep the coat shiny and prevents dry, flaky skin. Additionally, it supports good gut and joint health due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
OBSERVATION:If you choose to give your dog fish, make sure it is cooked or freeze-dried.
Some raw fish contain dangerous parasites. For example, raw salmon poisoning is caused by rickettsia, which uses a parasitic salmon worm as a host. This can be fatal for your dog. For more information on fish safety, visitepa.gov/escoge-pescado-y-mariscos-con-prudencia.
8.Pumpkin
Pumpkin's bright orange color serves as a visible indicator of its high beta-carotene content, which the body converts to vitamin A.
A powerful antioxidant that is essential for cancer prevention because it protects cells from the damage that free radicals can cause. Beta-carotene can inhibit the progression of cancer and increase the enzymes that work to remove cancer-causing substances from the body.
Read more about the benefits of pumpkin inFeed profile page.
9.Sweet potato (baked)
A special combination of vitamins and minerals found in sweet potatoes may help slow and prevent canine cancer. This includes vitamins A, B6, C, E and D. In addition to the minerals iron, magnesium, potassium, folic acid, copper and thiamine. And don't forget the important carotenoids and beta-carotene,
IMPORTANT:Raw or dried sweet potatoes can cause digestive problems. Do not give your dog raw potatoes of any kind.
10Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. It works as a cancer preventative by neutralizing free radicals in the body. Curcumin interferes with the development of cancer. The combination of coconut oil with turmeric can help with the absorption of curcumin.
Read more about the benefits of turmeric atFeed profile page.
Soon
As mentioned above, cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs, it makes sense to take every precaution to prevent cancer and keep our beloved pets as healthy as possible for as long as possible.
Whether your dog is healthy or battling cancer, these cancer-fighting foods are worth including in his diet. Alternatively, you can include high quality,human grade supplementsthey contain everything you need.
Important:If your dog has cancer, we do not recommend replacing medication with food alone. Talk to your vet for guidance on including the foods listed here along with medication to ensure a holistic approach to treatment.
The science behind it
Don't just take our word for it, here are some evidence-based studies for you to check out.
http://vetcancersociety.org/pet-owners/faqs/
Nutrition and cancer: a review of the evidence for a diet against cancer
Phytochemicals in cancer treatment
Apples: Linked to lower risk of breast cancer (ER-)
Blueberries reduce the risk of cancer
Protective role of dietary berries in cancer
antioxidant power in sled dogs supplemented with blueberries
Blueberries: increases antioxidants
Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer Prevention
Cruciferous vegetables and human cancer risk: epidemiological evidence and mechanistic basis
Carrots: rich source of carotenoids
Kale: rich in antioxidants
National Canine Cancer Foundation
Lymphoma and T-zone-like cells of undetermined significance: a case-control study of elderly Golden Retrievers.
Anti-inflammatory activity of a lipid fraction (lyprinol) from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel
Protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids on cancer
Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on immune cells
Disclaimer:All content in this email and website should not be considered medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd, d/b/a PetWell, encourages you to make your own pet care decisions based on your research and in consultation with a qualified pet care professional.