Cancer in Dogs: How You Can Help Prevent It
Many types of cancer in dogs are influenced by their genes and are therefore unpreventable. That said, regular vet check-ups and at-home exams are the keys to early diagnosis, which can save lives. There are also several lifestyle changes you can make for your pet to ensure they’re living life to the healthiest from going to check ups regularly to getting them safe natural food from pet stores and more:
Never Skip Wellness Checkups
In order to catch illnesses before they start, routine vet check-ups are vital. These can provide the necessary preventative treatments to avoid the development of cancer in dogs.
Dogs should always be getting annual checkups, which can provide information about their heart, kidneys, and liver. If any of these are damaged, it can lead to cancer, as well as other illnesses.
As well as annual checkups, monthly exams at home can help you even more. For example, you can check for lumps and bumps on your dog’s skin, which you can then show to your vet and get checked out.
Maintain a Healthy Diet and Exercise
Does your dog get enough exercise? Dogs are meant to live an active lifestyle, so make sure you’re taking your pet for regular walks and that you’re feeding them in a way that will keep them healthy.
Of course, a good diet and exercise routine will do wonders for your dog’s health. But if your pup is struggling with a specific condition, you may also consider taking them to a veterinary specialist who can recommend an alternative routine to help your dog remain cancer-free.
Minimize Exposure to Carcinogens
As well as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, it is also important to minimize your dog’s exposure to carcinogens in the environment.
Specifically, the Cancer Society recommends keeping your dog indoors during the summer months if possible. If you take your dog on walks, try to do them in the morning when there are less fumes in the air.
Spay Or Neuter
Spaying and neutering your dog is the best thing you can do to avoid cancer in dogs. The process lowers the hormone levels in your pet, which cuts down on the risk of certain diseases, including cancer.
Limit Exposure to Sun
Not only is the sun harmful to humans, but it can also be harmful to dogs.
Just like humans, dogs have sensitive skin, and sun rays can cause burns. As well as being painful, burns can also cause cancer in dogs if they aren’t treated properly.
As well as burns, the sun can also increase the risk of skin cancer in pets, as well as adding to the chances of other forms of cancer developing. To avoid cancer in dogs, you should always keep your dog indoors in the summer – unless they enjoy the sun, of course!
Put a Filter On Your Tap Water
Your dog can be affected by pollutants in the water source too. The Cancer Society recommends using a filter on your tap water to ensure the water is safe for your dog.
One issue that can cause cancer in dogs is waterborne viruses. These can be found in the water you use for your dog’s drinking bowl, so make sure that you filter the water that you give your dog.
Conclusion
While some cancers can be prevented and others cannot, early detection can help your dog avoid cancer in dogs. Keeping a close eye on your pet’s health can help you catch any signs of cancer as soon as they begin to appear.
And because the food you feed and products you use on your dog affects their health, it’s crucial that you get them from a trusted pet store.
Earthwise Pet Marysville is a trusted pet store in Marysville, WA, that sells natural pet foods and other products that are safe and good for your beloved furry friends. Check out our awesome products for your pets today!