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Pet Cancer Signs
Just as in people, early detection is critical. That's why it's so important
to check your pet
regularly.
Early Pet Cancer Warning Signs, As Identified By The Veterinary Cancer Society.
- Persistent, abnormal swelling
- Sores that do not heal
- Loss of weight
- Loss of appetite
- Bleeding or discharge from any body opening
- Offensive odor
- Difficulty eating or swallowing
- Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina
- Persistent lameness or stiffness
- Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating
If your pet has any of these early warning signs, visit your veterinarian
as soon as possible for a complete examination.
What Causes Pet Cancer?
Genetics
Due to improper breeding practices certain breeds of dogs are genetically prone to canine cancer
including:
- Golden Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Rottweilers
- Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Boxers
When choosing a dog or a cat, question the breeder as to the incidence of
canine or feline cancer in the line. And always avoid animals that have been
"mass" bred in puppy and kitten farms or "mills".
Over-Vaccination
It has been clinically proven that over-vaccinations can actually weaken your
pet's immune system, setting the stage for pet cancer. Sadly, cats can now
suffer from a specific type of feline cancer named "Vaccine Induced Fibro
Sarcoma." It develops at the vaccine site on your pet's skin as a direct side
effect of over-vaccination.
While initial puppy and kitten vaccinations are required and necessary, try
to avoid automatically vaccinating every year. Speak with your veterinarian
about spreading out the vaccinations and inoculate only those for diseases
that are prevalent in your geographical area.
It's also a good idea to check your pet's immunity with a blood titer test
before vaccinating. If your veterinarian is not familiar with a lab that does
titer testing, suggest that he or she contact Antech Diagnostics for titer
testing information (800-872-1001). You may also want to confer with a
holistic veterinarian who is knowledgeable in minimizing the potential side
effects of vaccines after they are given.
Environmental And Food Toxins
Do a "Toxic Screening" of your household and environment. Exposure to
chemicals in the environment and even small daily doses of chemical additives
and preservatives in their food can build up and be carcinogenic. That’s why it’s
important to take a serious look at the products you have around your house,
get rid of the toxic ones, and substitute safer products.
A variety of reports from the EPA, the Consumer Product Safety Commission,
and the California Department of Fish and Game confirm the hazards of environmental and household toxins including lawn fertilizers, detergents, and cleaners. These all have warning labels relative to children and pets, and many veterinarians see a link between environmental toxins and pet cancer. |
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