Canine spindle-cell sarcoma, most frequently occurring in female dogs, is a connective-tissue cancer found in fatty tissue under the skin. It tends to appear along the upper body and extremities, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. Some veterinarians prescribe a high protein diet for dogs with cancer as a way to keep energy levels up and address the problem of chronic weight loss, reports Gregory Ogilvie, D.V.M., Colorado State University.
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Hemangiopericytomas
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Spindle cell sarcoma, among the group of cancers known as hemangiopericytomas, most frequently targets mixed breeds, huskies, setters and shepherds. Spindle tumors are often malignant, require surgery and can recur, although they rarely metastasize or spread, reports Vetinfo.com.
Protein and Cancer
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Because the amino acids found in proteins can be depleted by cancer cells, some veterinarians recommend a protein diet for dogs with cancer, says Dr. Ogilvie. Fortification of amino acids can decrease canine cancer toxicity. Two noteworthy amino acid types are arginine, an immune-system booster, and glutamine, for gastrointestinal health. Also, glutamine aids in reducing the effects of chemotherapy that can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
Protein Foods
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One of the most critical issues dogs with cancer face is cachexia, or progressive involuntary weight loss. The challenge of keeping weight on a cancer-stricken dog along with the problem of amino acid depletion from the cancer itself, makes a protein diet a smart choice, according to Dr. Ogilvie.
Such a diet should include raw chicken, eggs, beef, fish and organ meat. For commercial preparations, dog owners can look to Science Diet N/D, Evo, Evolve Senior Light, Pro Plan Selects Dog Food and Breeder's Choice Pinnacle Peak High Protein Formula, among others.
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