You are here on because you have unfortunately heard the bad new that your loved furry friend, or someone you know who has a furry friend, unfortunately, has cancer. Whether you have decided to go through with chemotherapy, or radiation treatment which is costly, invasive, and not guaranteed to work or not your dog is most likely in lots of pain leaving you to wonder what can I do to help them with their cancer pains?

Cancer attacks your dog's body leaving them in pain, and weak. While cancer affects all dogs differently here are some of the most common side effects of canine cancer.

It is important to know that cancer affects every dog differently and that no dog is the same. Some dogs may seem fine, while others can barely move or eat. Never the less you always want to make sure you can do everything you can to make them feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. 

You most likely have noticed a change in your dog's behavior since the diagnosis or treatments have begun. Whether it is just the beginning of their cancer, remission, or they are fighting it the best they can one of the best things you can do for them is give them all of the love, care, and nutrition they need.

The most common response to finding that your dog is in pain from their cancer is to give them medication.  Most vets will give out synthetic pain medications to your dog when they are out of surgery or treatment to help with the invasive pains of chemotherapy or surgery.  However, it is also common for vets to give out pain medications to your dog if it is cancer itself that is causing the pain such as NSAIDS, Steroids, and Opiates. However, these can often cause other issues and may not be compatible or the best option for your furry friend. Because of this lots of dog owners are beginning to switch to a less western approach such as CBD which is known for its cancer-related benefits, especially in helping with pain related to cancer itself. 

Along with this nutritional support is very important in dogs. as cancer moves through the body it takes away all of the important nutrients your dog needs to be able to function properly, and fight pain. that is why it is important to talk to formulate a complete care plan for your dog that will give them all of the essential nutrients being sucked out of their body.

There are also more simple holistic approaches such as acupuncture which can help with lower amounts of pain, as well as help release cortisol which is a steroid that help strengthens your dog, as well as giving them mobility to move around. Along with this hydrotherapy can help, this is as simple as running cold water over the affected areas which helps reduce inflammation, and warm areas around cancer, or treated zones.  Also, warm compresses can also help by giving warmth to cold or stiff areas affected by cancer.

But most importantly just giving your dog the love, and attention they deserve can be the most beneficial thing you can do for them. Make sure to cuddle with them and give them lots of attention petting them, rubbing them, and just sending them all over good, happy vibes.