Kidney cancer in dogs is rare. When it does occur, it is usually as a result of the cancer spreading from another part of the dog's body. Prognosis and treatment depend upon whether one or both kidneys are affected and how far the disease has progressed. Dogs with kidney disease usually exhibit no symptoms until the disease begins to progress. The first sign most pet guardians will notice is an increase in urination, and there may be blood in the urine. The eventual result of untreated kidney cancer in your dog will be kidney failure.
-
Surgery
-
If the cancer is only affecting one kidney, such as a tumor on one of the kidneys, surgery often proves successful as treatment. If the dog is in good health, a nephrectomy is likely to be performed. In a nephrectomy the diseased kidney will be removed. A dog can live a good quality life with only one kidney. Chemotherapy and radiation are rarely included as part of treating kidney cancer in dogs.
Supportive
-
When kidney cancer has spread to other parts of the body, surgery doesn't usually offer a cure. In this situation, the veterinarian is likely to recommend only supportive care to make your dog as comfortable as possible. Supportive care will likely include subcutaneous or IV fluids to help remove toxins from the body. This is normally the kidneys' job; however, as the disease progresses the kidneys will likely not be able to continue this work. Steroids and blood transfusions may be administered to treat accompanying anemia.
Pain Management
-
One of the most important aspects of caring for your dog with kidney cancer--whether treatment is designed to cure or be only palliative--is to ensure your pet is not in pain. There are many pain management options for dogs. Talk to your veterinarian about prescription pain medications as well as alternative techniques for easing your dog's discomfort. Some holistic and conventional practitioners are trying techniques that include acupuncture, massage and aromatherapy.
Holistic
-
Whether surgery is an option for your dog or you are just working to make your pet as comfortable as possible after a diagnosis of kidney cancer, some holistic treatments may offer supportive care for your pet. Herbs are often part of holistic medicine and in the case of cancer they are used to support the immune system, provide antioxidants and slow the growth of tumors. Commonly used herbs for cancer in canines include astragalus, echinacea, ashwagandha and milk thistle. A holistic veterinarian can direct you toward other possible natural therapies for your pet, including homeopathic remedies, dietary changes and supplements. You can find a holistic practitioner in your area by visiting the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association's Web site at http://www.ahvma.org/.
-