A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in a dog's brain. Two types of brain tumors may develop in dogs. Primary tumors originate in the brain from cells that have grown in an uncontrolled manner. Secondary tumors are the result of cancer elsewhere in the body that has spread to the brain. Many veterinarians now practice integrative, or holistic, medicine to treat brain tumors in dogs.
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Diet
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Diet is an important part of the holistic treatment of brain tumors in dogs. Your dog's immune system must be working properly in order to help his body fight the cancer. Tumors rely on carbohydrates for growth and may rob your dog of essential amino acids. However, tumor cells cannot use fats for energy, while the rest of the body can. Therefore, many holistic practitioners place dogs with tumors on a high-fat, moderate-protein, low-carbohydrate diet to discourage tumor growth and provide them with adequate energy.
Herbs
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While herbs and other natural supplements may not be able to destroy canine tumor cells, they may be used to effectively strengthen your dog's immune system. Holistic practitioners may encourage the use of herbs such as red clover for dogs with brain tumors. According to Natural Dog Health Remedies.com, red clover has been touted as one of the most effective herbs for fighting cancer because it strengthens the function of the lymphatic system and has properties that may inhibit tumor growth. Milk thistle is another popular herb that helps to protect the liver. Milk thistle is often used in dogs that are undergoing chemotherapy to protect them from liver damage. The herb astragalus is an immuno-stimulant and has been found to boost dogs' immune systems. Astragalus has been especially effective against melanoma.
Acupuncture
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Acupuncture cannot prevent a brain tumor or cancer, but it can help relieve the pain associated with it and help restore energy in your dog's body. Acupuncture has been used for years as an analgesic and does not produce the dangerous side effects often associated with pain relief drugs. Acupuncture may also help your dog's body heal itself, but this treatment should be performed only by a veterinarian who is trained and certified in its use.
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