Dog Brain Tumors: Natural Treatments & Supplements
What Are Brain Tumors In Dogs?
A diagnosis of dog brain cancer may be really scary, but when clients use an integrative approach combining holistic treatments for dog brain tumors (e.g. diet changes and supplements) along with treatments from their veterinarian or veterinary oncologist, dogs often live longer than their prognosis. The average lifespan for a dog with a brain tumor that receives treatment is often over a year, which can be much longer than other forms of cancer.
A dog brain tumor is a mass that is growing inside the brain. The term is commonly used to describe a cancerous tumor that can arise from the brain and its lining (ex: meningioma, glioma, adenocarcinoma, etc.) or one that has metastasized from other parts of the body (ex: hemangiosarcoma, mammary carcinoma, melanoma). Certain breeds seem to have a higher incidence of brain tumors. Those breeds include the Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, Golden Retriever, Scottish Terrier, Boston Terrier, Pug, English Bulldog and Old English Sheepdog. Most dogs that develop brain tumors are over 5 years of age.
Natural Remedies for Dog Brain Tumors
Dog Brain Tumor Treatments
While a brain tumor or mass may be seen on imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI, brain cancer is very difficult to diagnose without further specialized diagnostic tests. If your dog has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, there are several treatment options that may be offered by your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist.
- Surgery - Surgery is often suggested if the brain tumor is small and localized. Surgical removal of brain tumors is very invasive and does not always remove the entire mass.
- Chemotherapy & Radiation - When we hear about cancer treatments, we generally think of chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy is not often used to treat localized brain tumors because it affects the pet's entire body. Radiation is used in cases where surgery has removed most of the cancer cells or in cases where surgery is not an option. Radiation can also damage healthy tissue and the recommended treatment course is up to 25 sessions under anesthesia.
- Stereotactic Radiation (SRS/SRT) - Stereotactic radiation (SRS/SRT) or CyberKnife Radiosurgery is a relatively new form of non-surgical treatment that uses precise beams of high-dose radiation to destroy tumor cells. The treatments can be done in about 3 visits versus 20+ visits for conventional radiation. It eliminates many of the unfavorable side effects, like burns, ulcers, inflammation or lethargy, and is often used for cancers that were once considered inoperable due to their location.
Most veterinary oncologists will suggest chemotherapy or radiation therapy for dog brain tumors along with treating any secondary conditions that have been caused by the brain tumor, such as seizures or edema. Natural supplements can be used in conjunction with most veterinary treatments prescribed by your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist. Using natural anti-inflammatory supplements and immune support vitamins may help increase the quality and quantity of time you have with your pet.
Dog Brain Tumor Natural Treatment
Ask Ariel's Pet Nutritionist Susan Davis has extensive experience helping pets with brain tumors, as she offered holistic consultations to cancer patients at a leading veterinary oncology hospital and VCA hospitals in Orange County, CA for over 10 years. By treating canine brain tumor symptoms with an integrative approach to cancer treatments, you can help improve your pet’s quality of life. Our holistic supplements for dog brain cancer are recommended by veterinarians nationwide.
If your dog has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, it is important to introduce holistic pet care (along with conventional veterinary treatments) as quickly as possible, as cancer can progress rapidly. Natural treatment for dog brain tumors includes using home remedies and a high omega, low inflammatory cancer diet. Please be sure to include your dog's diet on the order form at checkout and we will include free diet tips on the packing slip that comes with the product directions.
Dog Brain Booster is formulated to support dog brain health and provides important brain nutrients for dogs with brain tumors, seizures and neurological motor coordination disorders. Dog Brain Booster contains powerful, science-based brain nutrients, such as phosphatidylserine and Acetyl-L-carnitine, that are important for brain function and muscle movement. Contains neuroprotective citicoline and glycerophosphocholine to support cellular membranes. Promotes overall dog brain function.
Happy Paws Organic Hemp Extract for Dogs - A few drops of this professional veterinary-strength oil can help reduce pain and inflammation and support a healthy immune system. Controlling inflammation is a core part of cancer treatment, and that is the main characteristic of this dog brain cancer oil. The ingredients in Happy Paws are being researched for their beneficial effects on cancer. Anecdotal reports include reduced pain, inflammation and discomfort. Many dogs with brain tumors will have seizures. Clinical research shows that the use of CBD oil for the treatment of seizures in dogs can help to reduce the frequency of seizures. Each 1 oz bottle contains 550 mg of full-spectrum hemp extract in an unflavored all-natural coconut oil base. It’s 100% organic and made in the USA.
Amazing Omegas is the highest-quality purified fish oil available for pets. It is a powerhouse of omega-3 nutrients (essential fatty acids) that can help your pet fight cancer. Amazing Omegas is made from sardines, anchovies and mackerel, processed with minimal heat to preserve the oil in its natural state. It’s packed in glass bottles to prevent any chemicals from plastic leaching into the oil. It’s naturally processed and highly bioavailable, with all toxins and heavy metals carefully removed. Compare the nutrient panel of this premium pet fish oil to all other brands and see the difference.
OncoPet Cancer Vitamin is a proprietary blend of herbs and medicinal mushrooms that provide powerful immune support. The natural ingredients in OncoPet contain polyphenols, beta-glucans and antioxidants, like D-fraction and L-ergothioneine, that boost the immune system and help regulate your dog's inflammatory response. OncoPet is a comprehensive dog cancer vitamin that also includes herbs to help balance the gut microbiome and reduce nausea and cancer-related fatigue. Combines well with cancer treatments from your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist. Helps pets better handle chemotherapy and radiation. Excellent value.
Immune Harmony - This is a premium-quality, patented blend of plant sterols and antioxidants. It’s the #1 choice for pets with cancer. This unique patented plant sterol supplement is tolerated well by even the smallest pets. This pet vitamin has been successfully used in conjunction with chemotherapy and/or prednisone since 2005. The sterols contained in Immune Harmony have been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and immunomodulatory properties. No known toxicity has been found. The antioxidants protect the body from free-radical damage, as does an essential fatty acid complex that assists in the bioavailability of these health-promoting nutrients. Excellent value: One bottle lasts between 2 and 4 months depending upon the weight of your pet.
K9 CurcuMagic is a scientifically proven, natural anti-inflammatory pet supplement containing a patented combination of three curcuminoids acting as free-radical scavengers. These cancer-fighting nutrients help pets prevent and fight cancer with a unique bioactive turmeric formula. K9 CurcuMagic absorbs best when digested with fat, especially omega-3 fatty acids (Amazing Omegas), which is why our clients use the two pet cancer supplements together. If your pet is undergoing radiation, curcumin can protect the skin during radiation.
Purrfect Pet CoQ10 is made with Kaneka Ubiquinol™ - the reduced, active antioxidant form of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - the powerful natural antioxidant that facilitates enzyme activity and energy production. As your dog or cat ages, they lose CoQ10 and the ability to convert it. Purrfect Pet CoQ10 supports senior pets by enhancing energy production and stamina and provides cardio-protective support during chemotherapy or radiation. According to the National Cancer Institute, animal studies found that CoQ10 boosts the immune system and helps the body fight certain infections and types of cancer.
Resveratrol for Dogs is an exceptional antioxidant, backed by scientific research, that can help your dog in so many ways:
- Cancer Support and Prevention (use with dog breeds that have a higher incidence of cancer, such as bichon frises, German shepherds, Labradors, golden retrievers, boxers). Resveratrol for dogs acts on the process of carcinogenesis by affecting all three phases — tumor initiation, promotion and progression — and suppresses the final steps of carcinogenesis. Resveratrol for Dogs also supports immune function.
- Cardio-Protective (excellent for breeds prone to heart issues such as Cavalier King Charles spaniels, poodles, dachshunds). Very important if your pet is undergoing radiation.
- Energizing, Promotes Longevity. Excellent for senior dogs.
Symptoms of Dog Brain Tumors & Brain Cancer In Dogs
One of the most common clinical signs of a brain tumor is the onset of seizures in a dog over 5 years of age. Most of the dog brain tumor symptoms are caused by the tumor growing and increasing pressure on the healthy brain tissue. The mass may cause inflammation and brain damage.
- Seizures
- Changes in attitude and/or behavior, such as depression or loss of learned behavior
- Pacing or circling
- Head tilt and/or tremors
- Difficulty walking and/or loss of balance (ataxia)
- Decreased awareness
- Loss of appetite and vomiting
- Involuntary eye flicking (nystagmus)
- Abnormal eye position (strabismus)
Is A Brain Tumor In Dogs Painful?
Cancer may be painful depending on where it is located and how much it has metastasized. Dog brain tumors can create pressure on surrounding brain tissue and cause swelling and pain. Many dogs with brain tumors are prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce swelling and manage pain. The most common symptom of brain tumors is the onset of seizures. These can be very frightening for you and your dog. In many cases, early seizures can be managed with prescription medications and natural supplements but many times the seizures will increase in frequency and severity as the brain tumor grows. Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting supplements can be added to your pet's veterinary prescription protocol to help manage pain, reduce the signs of brain tumor in dogs, and provide overall support for your pet's health. The goal of treatment is to help keep your pet as comfortable as possible.
Diet for Dogs With Brain Tumors
Another important part of a comprehensive canine brain cancer natural treatment is diet. Pets with cancer need a special cancer diet that supports a healthy immune system and reduces inflammation. Ask Ariel’s Pet Nutritionist offered holistic consultations in conjunction with veterinarians at VCA hospitals and a leading Southern California veterinary oncology clinic for over 10 years. Her diet and supplement protocol for dogs and cats with cancer has been recommended by veterinarians nationwide and can be used along with conventional treatments recommended by your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist. Many pet owners might not realize that many foods (even the highest-quality, grain-free, premium diets) are weakening the immune system. Dry food, for example, is made with starchy carbohydrates that convert to sugar — which studies show helps cancer grow. It can be upsetting to realize that many pet foods contain ingredients that are worsening your pet's condition, but there is hope, as once the offending foods are eliminated, most pets show considerable improvement. When ordering supplements, please be sure to include the food and treats you are feeding your pet, along with any health issues, directly on the order form at checkout. We will include FREE diet tips for pets with cancer on the packing slip that comes with your order.
Need Help?
If you have questions about our supplements for brain tumors in dogs, please feel free to email us at [email protected]. We will be happy to provide you with additional information about our natural remedies for brain cancer, but please know that due to veterinary regulations, we cannot provide individualized consultative advice without a physical exam.
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