Our world is full of subtleties that are often overlooked in the rush of modern life.  Oftentimes we see what is most evident and believe that to be all there is – we miss the web of more subtle events and objects that accompany the obvious but are hidden to the casual observer.  We are satisfied that the easily observable is the extent of what is and we fail to look “behind the scenes”. Continue…

This is the letter I wrote to JAVMA (Journal of the American Vet Med Ass.) which they would not publish. I still strongly believe however that every pet owner should be informed, by their veterinarian, about every available treatment option. 

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Nearing the Time of Transition—Euthanasia or Natural Death? Continue…

 In modern medicine, symptoms are seen as the enemy, as the disease itself. Homeopathy, in contrast, recognizes that symptoms are merely the evidence, the manifestations or signposts, of the disease. Continue…

How does radiation therapy work?

Radiation, when used at energies that are a thousand times the energies used to produce a chest X-ray, can kill cells. Both normal and cancer cells are affected, but radiation treatment is intended and designed to maximize tumor effect and minimize normal tissue effect. Maximizing tumor effect is one reason that radiation treatments are given as a series of many small doses, rather than a few large doses.

What are the benefits of radiation therapy and when is it used?

Radiation therapy is used to treat localized disease. It can be used in the management of cancers that cannot be treated successfully by surgery or chemotherapy alone. Typically, it is employed following surgery when there are tumor cells remaining after excision, either because of the biology of that cancer and the nature of its growth, or because complete surgical removal would involve a very extensive procedure involving vital structures. In some instances, radiation therapy may be employed before surgery or chemotherapy in an attempt to shrink a tumor down to a more manageable size. Radiation therapy can offer, in some instances, permanent control of a tumor.

Even when a cure is not possible, radiation therapy can still bring some relief. Shrinking a large tumor with radiation therapy may improve a pet’s quality of life by reducing pressure, bleeding, or pain. This is called palliative treatment.

Learn more about the use of radiation therapy for treating cancer in pets:

What Should I Do If My Pet Is Diagnosed With Cancer? Continue…

Nutritional Requirements of Dogs and Cats with Cancer

Any illness, be it cancer or a benign disease, will have an impact on the patient’s metabolism. During disease, there are many changes in the way the body uses proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is important to realize that, for the most part, these are adaptations that are geared toward survival. In effect, the body is prioritizing its available nutrients for purposes like wound healing and maintaining the immune system. Sometimes, these metabolic changes can become exaggerated or prolonged to the point that they are harmful rather than beneficial to the patient. Significant weight loss and muscle wasting can occur rapidly and can be difficult or even impossible to reverse.

Please Read More From the University of Pennsylvania:
 

NB-When your pet has cancer it is especially critical to feed a fresh food diet.  S/he needs all of the nutrients and vitality of real food.  Avoid carbohydrates as they are the favorite nutrient of cancer cells.  NO KIBBLE!  Fats and protein is most important.  Palatability of a raw meat diet can be increased by lightly searing the meats and adding immune-enhancing spices like cayenne and tumeric (if your pet likes and can tolerate them).  Fish oils, antioxidants, etc. are all helpful.  These are the supplements that I use for cancer patients in my practice: –Dr. Jeff