Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma) in Dogs .

Liver cancer is a tumor of the epithelial tissues of the liver, that lines the surfaces and the cavities of dogs' body structure. It is one of the most dangerous forms of the disease and is a silent killer. Because many dogs do not even show any distinct symptoms until it is too late. Liver cancer in dog affect mostly older dogs ( around 10 years and above ) more than younger dogs. So dog parents and all animal lovers need to be educate themselves as much as they can and be careful of this disease.

Types of Dog liver cancer :

There are two types of liver cancer in dogs.
1- Primary Liver Cancer, arises within the liver. It is the result of primary liver tumor that originates in the liver. The most common primary liver tumor usually does not spread to other parts of the body. It mostly occurs in older dogs ( specially in male dogs ). In rare cases Primary liver cancer in dogs can metastasize to other parts of the body.

2- Secondary / Metastatic Liver Cancer, is one that spread to the liver from other organs and common in dogs. Because the liver is the largest organ in the dog's body. It is involved in bodily functions and processes. Medications are metabolized in the liver and putting a lot of stress on the liver. This is the reason of all secondary/ metastatic cancers. Metastatic liver tumors are generally multiple aggregation of cells.

Symptoms of Dog liver cancer :

 

Sadly in the early stage of dog liver cancer, symptoms are not distinctive until the disease reaches an advanced stage.

Some of Symptoms are :

Appetite loss, anemia as a result of appetite loss/ internal bleeding, pale gums as a sign of anemia, jaundice as a result of anemia and liver disease, blood in stools as a sign of internal bleeding, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, excessive urination and thirst, abdominal haemorrhage, weakness, behavioural symptom, etc.

Causes of dog liver cancer :

 

Causes of dog liver cancer are unknown. May be related to environmental factors such as chemical driven liver damage or causes may be toxins. Because dogs are exposed on a daily basis to such toxins and chemicals which may be contained in household cleaners/ pesticides.

If dog is being fed a low-quality commercial dog food, is constantly being exposed to harmful and some dangerous chemicals contained in the food such as artificial flavors and colouring.

Diagnosis of dog lever cancer : 

This is difficult to diagnosis early enough liver cancer in dog. If dog shows some of symptoms, do not do late to take him to a veterinarian for an immediate examination. Veterinarian will perform a physical examination on dog to see some other conditions. If dog liver cancer is suspected then it may require some following tests.

Biochemical profile, complete blood count test, urinalysis, liver biopsy, clotting tests, abdominal ultrasound, abdominal and chest x-rays. Also a microscopic test of fluid will be taken from dog liver by needle to detect a pre-cancerous change in tissues and cells. A hepatic biopsy may need to be done to make a conclusive diagnosis. 

 

Treatment in dog lever cancer :

 

Liver cancer in dog is a tough battle of life and is not easily treated. The treatment depends upon the severity of the condition. Very first veterinarian will work to stabilize dog's condition and to ease his discomfort and pain.

Disease is usually not diagnosed in the early stage. So options of treatment go down when the cancer is in an advanced stage. Dog may require a blood transfusion. If the dog has a primary liver tumor, there is possibility of a surgery to remove part of the liver. Surgery of this type is a dangerous procedure and only should be attempted when the exact location of the tumor is known. But not in all dogs. And If cancer is metastatic then radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be tried for removing cancer cells.

 

Natural remedies, herbs and diet for liver cancer in dog:

 

Though dog liver cancer has a poor worsen prognosis but one should not give up. Try various treatment options such as homeopathic, herbs, natural supplements, home made diets, etc.

Herbs are good for strengthening the immune system. They support the liver, kidneys and make the body stronger to fight against cancer.

AHCC, Avemar, Astragalus, Echinacea, red clover, burdock root, alfalfa, dandelion, essiac, milk thistle, green tea, garlic, ginger mashrooms, are good suggestions for dog with liver cancer.

Mostly veterinarians suggest homemade diet for liver cancer dog patient which should be low in carbohydrate and high in fat, high quality proteins, amino acids, beneficial vegetables.  

Also some beneficial supplements should be given. Vitamin C and E, the minerals selenium, etc.

 

Very Important Note : The goal of treatment for dog liver cancer should be to try to improve his quality of life. A dog with liver cancer is under a lot of stress, physically as well mentally. Always try to help relax the mind of the dog. Do everything for his well being and to keep his mind calm. 

The best thing is always keep the dog with liver cancer in under observation and visit for regular medical checkups.

In advanced stages,there is not so much that can be done to cure the cancer. Vet may bring up the possibility of euthanasia.   

Remember If discovered early, dog liver cancer may be treatable. 

Never give up the hopes.

Healthy, Nutritious and Balanced diet for canine (dogs) Part - 1

 

Every dog has different nutritional requirements (like every human). As a responsible dog lover you should know what is good, bad, safe, unsafe, dangerous for the dog. It is the most important to check with experienced veterinarian to determine what foods are best for a dog because the food is the foundation of all life.          

Dogs require  a diet with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, adequate amounts of fats and essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals in order to maintain good health. They do well on a small breakfast and two proper meals daily. Well-planned diet vegetarian or non- vegetarian can work good for dog.

Dogs should be fed a combination of fresh and dried foods.The fresh home made food is much healthier than the processed food for dogs. Fresh home made food is beneficial to the dog's diet because you can include any type of vegetables, non vegetarian, fruits, etc according to choice. I always prefer and feed fresh home made food to my pet. 

According to my research I would like to share about the healthy and balanced diet for dogs and what is good, bad or harmful for them. But as i said above, you consult the vet.

 

Safe and beneficial fresh vegetables for dogs :

Most vegetables are good for dogs. Vegetables are rich in Vitamin A and C as well as minerals.

Vitamin A - promotes immune system and also is essential to healthy skin, eye function, skeletal growth, etc.

Vitamin C - strengthens the immune system and promotes cell growth, etc.

Minerals -  transportation of oxygen to the blood, produce hormones, help to normal functioning of nerves and muscles, work with vitamins to cartilage formation, etc.

Some examples :

* Sweet potatoes - good source of dietary fiber, carbohydrates and vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, healthy for dogs.  

* Carrots : good for dog's eyesight

* Spinach - rich in iron and vitamins

* Celery - quells nervousness

* Parsley - good source of calcium, potassium, beta-carotene. Few tablespoons of chopped parsley is nice for food flavour and good for improve dog's breath

* Broccoli - is rich in calcium, vitamin A and vitamin C ( as much calcium as a glass of milk/ more vitamin C than an orange ). It is rich in a substance caused isothiocyanates chemicals which increase the body's production of cancer fighting substances. It is always available in winter season.

Remember Broccoli should be giving around 10% of the dog's diet because isothiocyanate can cause gastrointestinal irritation in dog.

* Peas - peas are a good source of the vitamin B, potassium, phosphorous. It is safe to add in dog's food. 

* Pumpkin - pumpkin is a good source of fiber and beta carotene and converts to vitamin A. Fiber is very good for puppies and dogs.

But never over do, give small amounts because vitamin A in large dose can be highly toxic for them so be aware.

* Green beans - good source of plant fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese. This is a great low calorie way to fill up and help in maintaining dog's weight.  

* Squash - is a good source of beta-carotene. Safe for dog's diet. Before giving to dog remove the seeds first. 

* Cucumber, Zucchini, lettuce, Cayenne pepper, Red and Green bell peppers, Kale are also safe and beneficial for dogs.

 

Unsafe and toxic vegetables for dogs.

* Onions - Onions are toxic for dogs. Very unsafe. It destroy red blood cells and can cause anemia.

* Garlic - like onion, N-propyldisulfide compound found in garlic also ( but in lesser amount ) which can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells. If regular large doses of this compound are given to dog in his/her diet, the process can lead to Heinz-body anemia.In a very small portion only you may give to do dog in his diet as it is considered natures antibiotic.

* Tomatoes - Tomato plants are toxic. Unsafe to add in dog's diet because it can cause heart arrhythmias and tremors.

* Potatoes - is unsafe if dog is diabetic or suffering from arthritis or cancer disease. Because potato convert to sugar/ starch which is very unsafe for dog who is suffering from above diseases.

 

Safe and beneficial fresh fruits for dogs :

Dogs can benefit from the nutrients derived from fruits such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium , fiber. There are some fruits which you can safely give to dogs as treats.

Apple, banana, orange, pear, peaches, plum, cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, apricot, kiwi. Even you can give Eggplant fruit and pineapple in very small amount to dog. You may give Eggplant, only the fruit, but not any other part. And pineapple contains calcium and potassium but also contains high sugar. So not advisable to give frequently/ to diabetic dog.

Remove pits or seeds of most fruits for sure. Because pits or seeds have a toxic effect and contains some amount of cyanide which can be poisonous to dog and can cause dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.

 

Unsafe fresh fruits for dogs :

Grapes/ raisins, avocados, contains a toxin. Dog exhibit gastrointestinal problems, also can cause difficulty breathing and fluid accumulation in the heart, chest and abdomen. And cause acute rental failure.

Apple, peach, pear, cherry seeds contains a powerful toxin ( though in small amounts ) so do not feed frequently to dog and remove seeds before give to dog.

 

Safe and beneficial non-vegetarian food for dogs :

* Eggs - are loaded with Vitamins, proteins and minerals. It should not be given raw. It can result in salmonella poisoning. Best way to give is scrambled or hard-boiled. Not advisable to give in hot summer. It can cause stomach upset/ diarrhea.

* Fish - is an excellent source of protein. It is good for skin and fur of dog. Meat of Solomon fishes good source of Omega 3 fatty acids. These fats support to build a healthy immune system and is good for dog with arthritis disease.

Never give fish raw to dog. It is extremely unsafe for dog. Because there are parasites in the fish meat that can be very harmful for the dog. Consider giving cooked fish meat. Also make sure there are no bones in the fish meat that could be stuck in dog's throat.

* Lean meat ( chicken, beef, pork ) - is source of B Vitamins which are involved in energy metabolism. And also is an source of amino acids which help build your dogs muscles. Before giving to dog it should be fresh, washed and cooked.

* Liver - is excellent source of vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin K and Iron. Wash and cook before giving to dog.

Remember because of high A vitamins it may be toxic so it should be given in limited amount to dog.

Note - Before adding in dogs diet be sure meats should be boneless and skin is removed, cooked. Raw meat may cause food poisoning and parasites.  

 

Safe / unsafe Grains, pulses, cereals for dogs :

Grains, pulses, lentils, cereals are important part of a healthy and balanced diet for dogs. They can be a source of energy for dogs. Any grain should be used in whole form to dog, that supplies more vitamins, fiber, minerals. Best grains for dogs are oats, millet, barley, quinoa, brown rice.

* Brown rice, White rice, wheat, whole wheat Couscous, barley, rolled oatmeal, Millet, Barley, split yellow lentil, split red lentil, etc are good to add in dogs diet but not in large amounts.

* Brown rice is a little higher in protein and lower in fat as compare to white rice. White rice is more easily digestible when dog has an upset stomach/ for an older dog, even for puppies.

* Lentils are good for dogs. They are good source of protein and do not cause gas problems. Split yellow lentil and split red lentil are most digestible lentils for dogs. They should boil and mix with rice, vegetables, meat. Even they can be mix in soups also.

* Oatmeal is beneficial for dogs specially older dogs. It is a good source of soluble fibre and good alternative source of grains for dogs. It should be cooked without sugar while giving to dog.

* You can add plain white yogurt, cottage cheese, popcorn, flax seeds, brawn , plain pasta in dogs meals. But everything should be given in small amounts.

 

What is unsafe and dangerous for dogs :

Dogs have a shorter digestive tract than humans.There is a lot of people food which dog should never eat. Some foods are very dangerous for them.

Onion, garlic, raw eggs, avocado, grapes, raisins, pits of most fruits, tomato-potato leaves and stems, rhubarb leaves, macadamia nuts, tea, coffee, coffee grounds and other caffeine, candy and gums, chocolates, alcoholic drinks, strong spices, seasonings, nut meg, salt, cornstalk, yeast dough, animal fats, fried foods, etc.

 

* Always put fresh water for the dog in stainless steel bowl rather than plastic bowl. Because bacteria grows faster on plastic.

 

* I will repeat -

It is the most important to check with experienced veterinarian to determine what foods are best for a dog because the food is the foundation of all life. 

 

Do not care only for your pet but care for all animals/ homeless animals. They desperately need our help, love and care. Do not let them die on the streets. They deserve happiness. They have right to live their lives without pain and sufferings. Consider adopt a homeless animal.

Cancer Disease In Dogs (Part-1)

Cancer is pretty leading cause of death in senior dog. It is curable also if caught early. Cancer cause a lot of pain and discomfort to dogs and can significantly shorten their lives.

 

There are some different types of dog cancer .

Brain tumors, breast cancer, bone cancer, mouth cancer, skin cancer, bladder cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, hemangiosarcoma leukemia, melanoma, prostate cancer, mast cell tumors ( a type of granular basophil cell in connective tissue that releases heparin, histamine and serotonin during inflammation and allergic reaction ).

 

Causes of dog cancer :

All forms of dog cancer start by genetic mutations that convert normal cells into cancer cells though still unclear the exact causes. It is believed that mutations are usually caused by chronic inflammation/ excessive oxidation. It is not difficult to find a lot of substances that may cause inflammation/ excessive oxidation in dog's body.

Here are some examples :

* Low quality  dog foods, contains artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, etc.

* Pollutaed air example gas exhaust, cigarette smoke, then water also.

* Toxins, harmful chemicals found in some common products ( dog flea,tick products, pesticides, household cleaners, etc )

* Radiation

* Over vaccination

* One cause can be If dog is suffering from mental stress like anxiety, depression, boredom have also an adverse effect on d dog's immune system which become weak and it develop the cancer disease.

 

Symptoms of dog cancer :

Some symptoms are shown by dog that suffering from cancer. But remember it may be caused by some other forms of illness as well. By diagnosis only it can be confirm the disease.

* Lumps and Bumps, that can arise on dog's skin from different forms of cancer. The way to tell whether a lump is cancerous or not is by examine under the microscope.

* Acute Coughing and sneezing, that caused by some kind of infection/ allergies/ heartworm infection/ lung fungal infection/ heart disease/ sneezing accompanied by a bloody nasal dischare from one side of the nasal cavity.

* Acute Diarrhea and Vomiting, can be the cause though several dog illness that can cause the same symptom. 

* Appetite loss, that can be done by proper diagnosis for cancer.

* Chronic skin disease, such as wounds that do not heal, itching, skin sores, etc.

* Urinary Incontinence/ blood in urine, these symptoms can be caused by some types of dog cancer.

* Pain, cancer can cause a lot pain to a dog.

* Lameness, some types of dog cancer like bone cancer can cause lameness.

* Weakness and lethargy, is the most common symptom of dog cancer. Dog become weak and lethargic.

* Swelling in bones and bad breath, oral cancer in dog can cause bad breath.

* Seizures, dog suffering from brain tumor can cause seizures. 

#One important note is a lot of the above symptoms of dog cancer may not cause to cancer. The disease can be diagnosed by examines and tests only.

 

Diagnosis of dog cancer :

If dog shows any symptom of dog cancer, without delay take him/ her to experienced veterinarian. He will ask dog's medical history, current vaccination status and past vaccination history, medications, dog's diet, etc. After getting medical history and physical examination dog will be given some tests that may includes :

* Urinalysis - this test will provide information that can identify the cause of the dog's symptoms. A urinalysis may be done to see if there is blood in the dog's urine.

* Blood tests - CBC, blood profile. OnoPet diagnostics.

* X-rays, CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound - X-rays are necessary for the  to properly evaluate cancer in dog. If x-ray can not reveal any abnormalities then  CT scan or MRI may be required for evaluate the disease in dog. During the scans dog is usually put under anesthesia.

* Biopsy - tumors are surgically removed. A portion of the tissues is sent for examination microscopically in pathology.

* Fine needle aspiration - that is a easy and quick way to determine the growth of a tumor. A tiny amount of cells/fluid pulling back on the plunger of the syringe and then examined under the microscope for proper diagnosis of cancer in dog.

 

Treatments of dog cancer :

There are three main types of cancer treatment for dog.

* Surgery - It depends on the type, size, location of the tumor. Some times canser is not cured by surgery but it helps in relieving  pain and discomfort.

* Chemotherapy - These drugs help to stop the cancer cells from reproducing, growing and spreading but only temporarily. Side effects like fever, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, hair loss, do arise in this treatment.

* Radiation - This therapy utilizes high energy to kill cancer cells more readily in dog. It may be used before surgery to shrink cancer tumors or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells. Side effects like soreness in the mouth or throat, localized skin burn, localized hair loss do arise in this treatment.

 

Dog cancer Prevention :

Cancer is one of the most feared of dog disease. There are some certain things one only can help minimize the chance of the dog's developing cancer which includes eliminating stress in the dog's life, minimizing exposure to toxins, feeding the dog a natural healthy diet with supplements, strengthening the dog's immune system using essential oils and herbs.

Do not feed the dog a low-grade grain based commercial dog food at all. Low grade dog foods contain artificial flavors/ colors, chemical preservatives. Grains may feed cancer. The best diet is home made natural diet. It consists of vegetables, fat, protein, etc. And about water also one should be careful. Dietary supplements are very important to protect the dog's body against damage by free radicals. Even Organic coconut oil and Vitamins A, C, E are an excellent antioxidant that help prevent and make less severe inflammation and other problems.

Some herbs like green tea, ginger, garlic, turmeric, curcumin, mushrooms, etc, that have been found to have anti cancer properties and are good to help in dog cancer.

 

Final Note :

Do not keep attitude of wait and see if a dog has a disorder, does not respond to treatment for some days and is showing certain symptoms of dog cancer. Immediate action and diagnosis can save the dog's life !

 

Do not care only for your pet but care for all animals/ stray animals. They desperately need our help, love and care. Do not let them die on the streets. They deserve happiness. They have right to live their lives without pain and sufferings !

Diabetes In Dogs :

 

The growing diabetes disease is not limited to humans but it is increasing among dogs as well. It is a common disease in dogs. According to researchers, one in 150 - 200 dogs will develop the Diabetes.The average age for this disease is 6 - 9 years.

 

What is diabetes in the dog ?

Animal lovers, pet owners should know about the disease well.

Diabetes is a result of inadequate (lacking) production of insulin by the islet (the pancreas contains clusters of cells that produce hormones.These clusters are known as islets) cells in the pancreas. Insulin enables glucose to pass into cells. There it is metabolized to produce energy for metabolism. Insulin deficiency results in high blood sugar and high urine sugar. Diabetic dog passes large volumes of urine and sometimes this creates dehydration so the dog urge to drink large amount of water.

3.44 - 6 mmol/L and 62 - 108 mg/dL is considered as normal glucose values range for dogs.

 

There are two types of diabetes in dogs.

Type 1 diabetes is insulin-dependent/ juvenile. This is analogous to the type which affects virtually all dogs.

Type 2 diabetes is adult onset. This type is the result of insulin resistance linked to diet and obesity.

 

Symptoms :

Here are some common symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

Dizziness, confusion, excessive thirst, increased urination, lethargy, depression, weakness, loss of balance, trembling, vomiting, weight loss despite normal/increased food consumption, some times loss of consciousness, cataracts and blindness can also be a symptom, etc.

 

Causes :

*Heredity - If dog's parent s had diabetes, there is high chance dog may develop diabetes. or sugary foods are consuming high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates. It affects the blood glucose levels.

*Obesity - Is a common and important reason. Fattening or sugary foods are consuming high amounts of sugars and carbohydrates. It affects the blood glucose levels. In result dog may develop diabetes.

*Steroids - If dog is need to be given steroid shots to help with other ailments so it may affect the pancreas. In results an imbalance of insulin levels. This may be the cause of diabetes.

*Diseases - Some diseases affects the pancreas and in results abnormal production of insulin in the dog's body. So in future it may cause of diabetes.

 

Diagnosis :

The diagnosis of diabetes in dog is easy to confirm. There are simple tests of sugar (glucose) in the blood and urine. If the blood glucose concentration is consistently higher than normal it means dog's pancreas is not enough insulin. Dog is suffering from diabetes mellitus. Because of diabetes dog may get some other diseases like enlarged liver, ketones in urine, elevated cholesterol/triglycerides low blood phosphorus levels, increased urine specific gravity resulting from dehydration, etc. So there should be test done for these diseases.

 

Cataract and blindness :

Most of dogs develop cataracts / blindness within few months/a year of being diagnosis with diabetes. Cataract can develop fast and it left untreated. It can lead to blindness and glaucoma. Catracts can be surgically removed. So proper diagnosis and treatment should be followed.

 

Preventions of dog diabetes :

The best way to prevention is keeping dog at a healthy and balanced diet and normal weight. Regular exercise will prevent obesity in dog. As this is important to know if dog's parents have a history of diabetes so it will help in prevention. Cut out fattening and sugary food.

 

Treatments of dog diabetes :

There are different treatment options including home remedies are available to treat dog's diabetes.

 

Insulin therapy - There are several types of insulin like Humulin, Humalog, Novalog,etc. 

 

The Humulin N -  is used along with insulin for the treatment of diabetes..It helps to control the dog's sugar/glucose level.The amount of insulin needed according to size and level of diabetes dog has.

 

Diet for diabetic dog -  There should be the right and healthy diet for diabetic dog. It is very important. Fattening or sugary food should not be given to a diabetic dog. Dietary fiber in moderate amount is good for diabetic dog. It slows gastric emptying/ the digestion of carbohydrates, which slows the release of glucose. Other dietary control and daily injections of insulin will help to keep diabetic dog active and healthy.

 

Blood sugar level testing kits - There are kits available to help monitor dog's diabetes. So you can monitor and keep watching dog's condition regularly. It includes a glucose monitor, test strips, syringes.

 

Home remedies/ Natural treatments for dog's diabetes :

There are some good home remedies/natural treatment options which can help to keep the dog's diabetes not cured but in control.

*Karela - It can stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. It helps to improve the absorption of food.

*Cinnamon - It works by substituting insulin in the blood. Very small amount only can be given into dog's food.

*Bejak - It is a herb which helps to reduce the presence of blood sugar. It also helps for urination related problems in dog's diabetes.

*Chromium - This is a mineral in the body. It is important and necessary to help the pancreas create natural insulin. It may be given to diabetic dog as a supplement to balance glucose level in the body.

*Vitamin - E - It helps reduce insulin dependency. Can be given daily.

Also Apple cider vinegar and grapefruit can help in control excess weight of dog.

 

If you see the signs of hypoglycaemia in dog you can give honey, corn syrup, pancake syrup. This should be rubbed on dog's gums/ under the tongue. One gram of glucose can be given in hypoglycaemia. Since glucose acts fast and quickly so response of dog should be seen within a minute or two. Everything should be given according to size and weight of the dog.

 

Diabetes disease Complications in the dog :

Ketones, Nonketotic hyperosmolar syndrome, dehydration, Cushing's disease, rental, liver and cardiac insufficiency, chronic inflammation, cancer, severe obeysity, etc.

 

Finally - Diabetes can not be cured. It is lifelong process but it can be controlled. An experienced veterinarian is the best advisor.

 

Always take care of not only your pet but also take care of all animals/stray animals. They need your love,care,help and support as well as your pets.