Pet Health Alert: Cancer Prevention in Older Dogs

Dogs can have cancer too..

Cancer is not only a risk for human beings—it can affect our canine companions, too. "Veterinary research estimates that the incidence of cancer in older dogs ranges from 50 to 75 percent," according to Dr. Louise Murray, ASPCA Director of Medicine at Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital (BMAH).

Such high numbers of the disease may have to do with innovations in pet health care, such as vaccines and deworming. “Nowadays, more pets are protected from parasites, heartworms and viral disease,” observes Dr. Murray. “As a result, they are living longer and developing cancer in their old age.”

Veterinary oncologists are also detecting cancer more often and at earlier stages with the help of sophisticated diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, CT scans and even MRIs for pets.

Though we cannot prevent all cancers, there are certain steps pet parents can take to greatly diminish the chances of their animal companion contracting the disease:

• Spaying and neutering pets before their first heat cycles can significantly reduce the occurrence of mammary tumors and helps prevent ovarian, uterine and testicular cancers.
• If you notice a mass on your pet's skin, have it examined immediately by a veterinarian. If it is cancerous, have it removed as soon as possible.
• Don't allow your pet to be exposed to cigarette smoke.
• Use pet-formulated sunscreen on vulnerable, fair-skinned pets.
• Avoid chemical lawn products, which are proven to cause cancers in pets, including bladder cancer and lymphoma.

http://www.aspca.org/news/national/09-11-09.html#3

tips on aging pets

Take a holistic approach to your pet’s health as they age–before common problems become a burden.

Problem: Extra pounds.
Solution: Start with exercise. Maintaining a trim figure will help your dog or cat stave off weight-related health conditions, such as diabetes and osteoarthritis. If you don’t have a backyard or can’t walk your pooch during the day, consider doggie day care or a dog walker. Keep cats active as well; even a good romp with a dangled string can help prevent unwanted pounds. Read about exercise and dogs in cold weather.

Problem: Sore joints.
Solution: Adding joint and connective-tissue supplements, such as glucosamine, to your young pet’s daily routine can help prevent arthritis down the road. If your older pet is already feeling achy, ask your vet to help you find an effective dose of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, or MSM. For more on the the topic, see Holistic Treatment for Dog Osteoarthritis.

Problem: Unhealthy teeth and gums.
Solutions: Tossing your pet a bone keeps plaque at bay, plus teeth will automatically get flossed with the connective tissue. With store-bought food, read labels and keep it natural. And in addition to annual teeth cleanings at the vet, brush your pet’s teeth once or twice a week with a paste made from baking soda and a drop of hydrogen peroxide. See 6 Tips for Healthy Doggie Teeth