Cancer is one of the leading causes of death and euthanasia in dogs and cats, according to a September 2008 article in the DVN Newsmagazine. Proper treatment and care may help your dog live many months after a cancer diagnosis. If the cancer is incurable, you can focus on making your pet's last days as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. You and your veterinarian can work together on a plan of care to address all your pet's needs.
Things You'll Need
- Food
- Supplements
- Pain reliever
- Heated bed or a heating pad
- Palliative treatment (optional)
Instructions
Provide your pet with food he'll eat. Many dogs with cancer have decreased appetites, yet they need more calories than ever to fight the disease. Proper nutrition is important, too, so work with your vet to come up with a meal plan for your dog. You may try different approaches through the course of your pet's disease, from feeding smaller meals to preparing table food for your dog. Your vet may prescribe supplements to provide the nutrition your dog needs.
Manage your dog's pain. Animals are often very good at masking pain. You know your dog better than anyone, so be alert for signs of pain such as restlessness, whining or irritability. Your vet may describe a combination of treatments, such as anti-inflammatories and narcotics.
See to your dog's physical comfort. In cold weather, provide a sweater. Dogs often lose body fat due to cancer, and thus will feel the cold more keenly. Provide a warm bed. You might consider using a heated bed or a heating pad to make your dog more comfortable. Even in hot weather, your dog may be more sensitive to hard surfaces, so make sure he has a soft bed.
Continue your dog's favorite activities. If your dog loves walks, you don't necessarily have to discontinue them when he's ill. Find an easier, shorter route. Shorten play times, or substitute another pleasurable activity, such as sitting quietly together. Your dog loves the sound of your voice, so talk to him.
Ask your vet about alternative therapies. Depending on your dog's illness, therapies such as acupuncture and massage may help make her more comfortable.
Consult your vet about palliative treatment. If a tumor is physically hindering your dog, radiation to shrink the tumor, or treatment with steroids or other drugs may relieve your dog's discomfort, even if they can't provide a cure.
Let your dog lead the way. Take your cues from your dog. Don't push him to eat or exercise if she doesn't feel up to it. When the time comes to say good-bye, be willing to let her go quietly, knowing you did everything you could to make her last days as comfortable as possible.