Dog cancer is rising, and pet parents are seeking alternative management options. This is because some traditional plans are expensive and have severe side effects that expose dogs to other health issues. CBD is among the other management options, but is it effective? Continue reading for more information.
How common is cancer in dogs?
Dog cancer is a very prevalent disease. It affects approximately 50% of dogs during their senior stages.
Most Common Cancers in Dogs
Dogs can develop certain tumors fairly often. Mast cell tumors and melanomas are the most prevalent subtypes of skin, lymphoma, and bone malignancies.
Signs your dog might have cancer
A diagnosis will reveal whether your dog has cancer. But here are the signs to watch out for:
- Difficulty eating.
- Sudden weight changes.
- Lumps.
- Swelling.
These signs are common in older dogs and those with seizures. They may, therefore, not necessarily mean your dog has cancer.
Warning signs for dogs with cancer
The signs above are common in senior dogs. Below are the specific warning signs of cancer in dogs:
- Abdominal swelling.
- Sores or wounds that won’t heal.
- New smells from the ears or mouth.
- Bumps or lumps under the skin.
- Sudden weight loss.
- Sudden changes in appetite.
- Discharge from eyes, ears, or mouth.
- Pain.
- Changes in bathroom habits.
- Lethargy.
Diagnosing and treating your dog
MRI scanning, ultrasounds, and biopsy are common diagnostic techniques. If your dog is diagnosed with cancer, the next step is to go to an oncologist, who will tell you the type and stage of the cancer and other health concerns that will affect the cancer.
The three main treatment modalities are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery is frequently selected for cutaneous tumors or internally located growths that appear separate.
Chemotherapy is common in most cancer types. It has fewer side effects on dogs compared to humans. However, it does not cure cancer. It slows it down and lowers the severity of symptoms.
Only a small number of specialized facilities offer radiotherapy. But it rarely provides a cure, and frequent visits are required. Brief general anesthesia is administered before each treatment since your pet must be completely still to be effective.
What Pet Parents Should Know About Using Cannabis for Their Pet With Cancer
Let’s start with some fundamental language to make the present scientific study easier for pet parents to understand:
Based on the taxonomy of the plant, there are two types of cannabis:
Industrial Hemp
Industrial hemp, commonly referred to as help or low-delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (or “THC”) cannabis, has a THC content of 0.3% or below.
High THC Cannabis
Commonly referred to as marijuana or high-THC cannabis, this type is sold in dispensaries and contains more than 0.3% THC.
Cannabis and Palliative Care
Cannabis helps with the adverse symptoms of cancer or conventional medication, such as pain, nausea, low appetite, and anxiety. This is according to published studies as well as a veterinary therapeutic practice. Further research is required to understand the specific dosage for canine cancer.
Common side effects include drooling, sedation, and lethargy. CBD is contraindicated in dogs with cardiac problems.
Cannabis and Cancer: What Does the Current Scientific Evidence Demonstrate?
Researchers have discovered that CBD interacts with endocannabinoid system receptors, which are abundant in dogs’ bodies and regulate inflammation.
A 2011 review showed that these receptors might be targeted to reduce the development and growth of prostate, bone, and breast cancers and associated pain.
In a 2018 study, mice receiving radiation therapy also received CBD, resulting in greater decreases in cancer cells than radiation therapy alone.
In a related 2018 study, it was discovered that mice given CBD and chemotherapy lasted nearly three times as long as the control group did after being diagnosed with cancer.
Can CBD help with side effects from cancer treatments for dogs
Yes. CBD can reduce the severity of cancer symptoms, including nausea, anxiety, poor appetite, inflammation, and pain. Some dogs who have lost their appetite get better when they regularly take CBD. Aging dogs whose owners determine that intensive and invasive therapy is not the best option may benefit from CBD as a palliative measure.
Does it work with traditional cancer treatments?
Yes. CBD relieves the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. CBD stimulates appetite, reduces the chances of nausea and vomiting, and minimizes the severity of pain.
Common side effects of radiation therapy include skin irritation and tiredness. CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that lower the risk of skin irritation. Surgery is painful for your dog, and CBD reduces the intensity of the pain.
Can I treat my dog’s cancer naturally?
Although treating dogs with cancer naturally is possible, combining it with conventional cancer treatments will probably require it. There is currently no proof that natural or home remedies may treat cancer.
So does CBD affect tumor progression?
Recent research on cannabis chemicals does not eliminate the necessity for conventional cancer treatment alternatives; thus, no one should advocate CBD as a cure.
It is, therefore, preferable to look at CBD products as beneficial supplements that aid dogs suffering from chronic illnesses like cancer.
Treatment vs. supplement
Canine cancer instances are all unique, just like human cancer situations. Dogs may require a variety of treatment regimens, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
Like how people use it, dogs with cancer will respond to CBD differently. Some may respond positively, while others may benefit from its symptom-relieving feature.
CBD and other medications
CBD may be a good substitute for prescription drugs like opioids and NSAIDs, which can negatively affect some pets because it helps relieve pain and inflammation.
Can CBD oil help dogs with cancer?
Yes. CBD oil can help dogs with cancer by relieving canine cancer symptoms. Such symptoms include nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, and pain. CBD also lowers the severity of symptoms that come with cancer treatment.
Do veterinarians recommend CBD for cancer in dogs?
Integrative vets can recommend CBD for dog cancer. Other vets, except those in California, cannot prescribe CBD for cancer in dogs.
What does CBD do for dogs with cancer?
CBD relieves symptoms like vomiting and nausea that come with cancer. Additionally, the supplement lowers the severity of pain in sick dogs.
Pet CBD is not the same as medical marijuana.
Medical marijuana has higher THC levels compared to pet CBD. Pet CBD should have less than 0.3% THC.
Read more on Good vs. Bad CBD: How to Make Sure Your Pet CBD is Legit
How do you treat dogs’ cancer with CBD?
CBD is not a treatment for dog cancer. However, it helps manage the symptoms of cancer in dogs and boosts their quality of life.
What Are the Best CBD Oils for Dogs with Cancer?
Honest Paws Well Oil
This high-quality CBD uses organic hemp from Colorado. It is rich in cannabinoids to support dogs with cancer. (view Honest Paws Well lab report)
Features
- It contains high amounts of cannabinoids to alleviate cancer symptoms in dogs.
- It uses organic hemp, making it safe for your dog.
Pro
- Consuming it relieves cancer symptoms in dogs.
- It is third-party-tested.
- It uses organic hemp.
Cons
- Small doses can be a bit pricey.
Batch CBD Pet Oil
Batch CBD has two flavors, salmon and bacon, to delight your dog’s taste buds. Organic MCT carrier oil is easy to digest, so you will not worry about tummy issues. (view Batch CBD Pet Oil lab report)
Features
- It uses organic MCT carrier oil making it easy to digest.
- It comes in two flavors giving you options to choose from.
- It uses full-spectrum CBD to help with cancer in dogs.
Pro
- It is easy to digest.
- Two flavors to choose from.
Cons
- It does not include other therapeutic ingredients like turmeric and chamomile.
Penelope’s Bloom
This cannabinoid-dense CBD is the best selection for dog cancer. The oil is third-party-tested, ensuring its purity and potency. (view Penelope’s Bloom lab report)
Features
- Third-party tested for potency and purity.
- It uses organic human-grade ingredients for your dog’s safety.
- It is rich in cannabinoids to relieve cancer symptoms.
Pro
- It is effective against cancer in dogs.
- It is affordable.
- Excellent customer care.
Cons
- Lab results testing purity are not displayed online.
CBDistillery Pet Tincture
With approximately 5 supportive cannabinoids, this CBD oil suits your sick dog. The cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system to alleviate cancer symptoms. (view CBDistillery Pet Oil lab report)
Features
- It has five cannabinoids to alleviate cancer symptoms in dogs.
- It is affordable, so you will not strain financially.
Pro
- It supports dogs with cancer.
- It is affordable.
Cons
- It is not made in the USA.
Charlotte’s Web for Pets
Charlotte’s Web CBD oil for dogs includes six out of the seven most advantageous cannabinoids, which provide a real full-spectrum extraction. (view Charlotte’s Web for Dogs lab report)
Features
- It includes cannabinoids like CBC, which are effective against cancer symptoms.
- It has a clearly-marked dropper for easy administration.
Pro
- Easy to administer.
- It is effective against cancer symptoms.
Cons
- It is a bit expensive.
Holistapet
This THC-free CBD is made in the USA and suits your dog’s health thanks to its cannabinoids, including CBG. You have five sizes and three flavors to choose from. (view Holistapet lab report)
Features
- It comes in three flavors to suit your picky dog.
- It comes in five sizes to suit all dog breeds.
Pro
- There is a variety of sizes and flavors to choose from.
- Includes CBG for reduced severity of cancer symptoms.
Cons
- It has fewer cannabinoids compared to other CBD products.
HempMy Pet
This full-spectrum CBD oil uses organic hemp to ensure maximum safety for your dog. It has lab-independent certificates, thus guaranteeing quality. (view HempMy Pet lab report)
Features
- It has lab-independent certificates to guarantee quality.
- It uses organic hemp, making it safe for your sick dog.
Pro
- The oil uses organic hemp.
- It has lab-independent certificates.
Cons
- There are no third-party reviews.
Medterra Pet Oil
This oil contains CBD. However, it has no supporting cannabinoids, so it is not as effective as other CBD oils for cancer in dogs. (view Medterra CBD Pet Oil lab report)
Features
- It uses organic CBD for your dog’s safety.
- It comes in 4 strengths, so you can select the best according to your dog’s needs.
- It comes in three flavors giving you options to select from.
Pro
- It is safe for dogs with cancer.
- It has a variety of strengths and flavors to choose from.
Cons
- It uses CBD isolate.
Are there other natural supplements for dogs with cancer?
Supplements from turkey tail mushrooms are another all-natural way to support cancer therapies. The mushroom has been traditionally used medicinally to treat cancer in animals.
What Are the Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs With Cancer?
Here are the benefits of CBD for dogs with cancer.
- Pain relief: CBD has pain-relieving properties that lower the severity of pain from cancer and its treatment.
- Improved appetite: CBD stimulates appetite, making it an excellent choice for dogs with cancer. Cancer causes a low appetite.
- Anti-inflammatory: Dogs with cancer frequently have inflammation; however, CBD can help lessen your dog’s pain and discomfort by reducing inflammation and swelling.
- Minimizes anxiety: Both pet parents and dogs may experience stress following a cancer diagnosis and its treatment. CBD induces calmness, thus making dogs feel more at ease.
- Fewer side effects: Dogs tolerate CBD well, and the supplement has fewer negative effects than conventional cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiation, which can have serious side effects.
Are there any risks of CBD Oil for dogs with cancer?
There are no severe risks associated with CBD oil in dogs. Common side effects include drowsiness, low blood pressure, and tummy problems.
How does CBD work?
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system receptors to make your dog calm, reduce pain and inflammation, and stimulate appetite.
How is CBD administered?
CBD can be administered with your dog’s food, directly through the mouth, or by adding it to your dog’s favorite treats.
An effective dosage of CBD Oil for dogs with cancer
Determining the ideal dosage for your dog will be challenging. This is because there aren’t enough checks and balances to guarantee product quality. Starting slowly is, therefore, a wise choice. The general rule is to administer CBD according to your dog’s weight.
10 Treatment Options To Help Your Dog During the Fight Against Cancer
It is important to walk the journey with your dog. Below are ten treatment options to help your dog during the journey:
- Surgery: This is the removal of the tumor. It reduces the chances of the disease spreading.
- Chemotherapy: It has fewer side effects in dogs. This is because most dogs are put on low doses compared to those for humans.
- Radiation therapy is another treatment that kills cancer cells by destroying their DNA. There is no discomfort involved in administering this.
- Cancer medication: Drugs like piroxicam are used to treat mast cell cancer.
- Pain medication: Cancer is painful and pain-relieving drugs come in handy to reduce the severity of pain.
- Diet: Diets rich in protein and low in carbs effectively kill cancer cells.
- Alternative medications include acupuncture and Chinese herbs. Always consult an oncologist or vet before going for alternative medication.
- Nursing care: In some places, you can receive training from technicians and vets to administer treatments at home. Others will come to your home to assist with activities like administering medication.
- Hospice care: This mainly applies to your dog’s final stages. It ensures your dog receives maximum care during its final days.
- Euthanasia: This is the last resort. It is painful but ensures your dog no longer feels extreme pain.
Tips for Caring for a Dog With Cancer
Caring for a dog with cancer is not easy. Here are some tips to make it better:
- Understand the type of cancer your dog is suffering from.
- Be positive so that you can help your dog manage this problem.
- Understand the diagnostic techniques and the types of dog cancers.
- Understand the available treatment options.
- Look for a veterinary oncologist.
- Ensure your dog lives a quality life by offering it the best diet and care.
What is the best thing to do with a dog with cancer?
The best thing to do with a cancer dog is to follow the oncologist’s advice. Stick to the treatment options and provide the correct diet.
How long can a dog live comfortably with cancer?
If left untreated, dogs with cancer can die within two months. However, some dogs won’t survive past another three to four months despite full treatment due to some cancers’ extreme aggressiveness.
What are the last stages of cancer in dogs?
When cancer has spread to the point where it interferes with an organ’s ability to function normally or maintain a fair quality of life, it enters the end or last stages of the disease in dogs.
Do dogs with cancer drink more water?
Yes. Hormone disorders and tumors make dogs thirsty, thus forcing them to drink more water than before.
What is the best pain medication for dogs with cancer?
A typical narcotic drug used to treat dogs with cancer pain is tramadol. Most dogs tolerate this drug well, which can be given in high amounts to alleviate more severe pain or combined with NSAIDs.
How do you comfort a dog with cancer?
Care for a cancer-stricken dog may involve managing their pain and/or giving them fluids to stay hydrated. But you might have to make some difficult choices if your dog’s quality of life declines.
How do I know if my dog is in pain from cancer?
Some signs of pain in dogs with cancer include limping, heavy panting, aggression, increased vocalization, a lack of appetite, and trembling. Any of these signs call for a visit to the vet for a proper diagnosis.
How can I slow down my dog’s tumor growth?
A calcium chloride injection can shrink benign tumors in dogs. In both canine and human patients, other pharmacological treatments and non-invasive techniques also lower the chances of tumor growth.
Does turmeric shrink tumors in dogs?
Yes, turmeric can aid in the shrinkage of canine tumors. The active component of turmeric, curcumin, has anti-cancer effects in dogs. Curcumin helps decrease inflammation while destroying cancer cells.
What feeds tumors in dogs?
Tumor cells thrive in carbohydrate-rich environments. Massive carbs in a dog’s diet will feed the tumor while starving the dog since tumors utilize carbs to stimulate cancer cell proliferation.
How long will my dog live if she has a tumor?
The severity or extent of the individual malignancy will determine this. Some dogs live for weeks or months, while others live for years. Patients with lymphoma, for example, can survive for several years.
How do I tell if my dog’s CBD oil is working?
CBD relieves pain, inflammation, and nausea. Additionally, this supplement stimulates the appetite. CBD oil works effectively if you notice changes in your dog’s symptoms.
Do vets recommend CBD oil for dogs with cancer?
Most vets do not recommend CBD oil for dogs with cancer. Integrative vets, however, can recommend this supplement for dogs with cancer.
Can dogs take CBD with other cancer medications?
Yes. But caution is key. Although CBD is an organic supplement helpful for many pet health issues, including chronic pain, insomnia, depression, and anxiety, it may interfere with some drugs.
Can dogs overdose on CBD oil?
Dogs cannot overdose on CBD. This is because the oil doesn’t have any harmful or psychotropic components. However, if a dog consumes too much of it, it might get tummy problems or become drowsy.
How much CBD should I give my dog for cancer? (dosages)
Usually, two daily doses are the most effective. The normal dosage recommendations call for 1-5 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight; however, the exact dosage will depend on the circumstances.
Final Thoughts
There you have all the information about cancer in dogs and CBD. Although CBD oil cannot cure dog cancer, it has cannabinoids that interact with your dog’s endocannabinoid system receptors to relieve cancer symptoms.
CBD oil works by reducing the severity of pain, lowering the chances of inflammation, keeping your dog calm, reducing the risk of nausea and vomiting, and stimulating appetite. These features make CBD oil a must-have supplement for dogs with cancer.
Purchasing the right CBD means spending more time with your dog. So why not try it now? Always talk to an experienced vet before using CBD for dog cancer.