If your dog has cancer, adding fish oil to her diet may improve her quality of life and lengthen survival time. According to research by Gregory Ogilvie, DVM and head of Medical Oncology at the Animal Cancer Center at Colorado State University, essential fatty acids (EFAs) found in salmon and other cold water fish can stop growth of certain types of malignant tumors in dogs.
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Starving the Cancer
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Ogilvie's research found that malignant tumors thrive on sugars (carbohydrates) but cannot use fats as energy. He recommends adding more fat (lipids) such as fish oil to a dog's diet and decreasing carbohydrates to "starve" the cancer. This diet was found to improve energy levels and help slow or even stop tumor growth in dogs.
Omega-3 Found Most Effective
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The essential fatty acid omega-3 is particularly effective in stopping the growth of tumors, according to Ogilvie's findings. Foods rich in omega-3 include fish oil derived from salmon and other cold water fish.
Limit Omega-6
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Omega-6 fatty acid should be limited as it can cause accelerated growth of malignant dog tumors. Evening primrose oil, black currant oil and borage oil should be avoided as they are rich in omega-6.
Recommended Dosage
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Fish oil capsules can be purchased over-the-counter, are relatively inexpensive and easy to administer. The recommended dosage is 1000 mg per 20 lbs. of body weight once a day.
Considerations
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Fish oil may not be appropriate for dogs with pancreatitis. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes in your dog's diet.
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