25% of Dogs Get Cancer – Is Your Dog at Risk?
25% of Dogs Get Cancer – Is Your Dog at Risk?
You got the vaccine for kennel cough and use flea and tick medicine every month – but are you protecting your dog from one of the most common diseases? Cancer affects one in four dogs, and it is currently the number one non-accidental cause of death for our canine friends. While certain breeds, like boxers, golden retrievers and rottweilers, are more prone to cancer, the disease can strike any dog. Like cancer in humans, there is no cure.
But there are ways that you can reduce your four-legged friend’s risk of getting the disease. Start incorporating these tips into your daily routine:
- Feed your dog a healthy diet, complete with vegetables like cauliflower
- Spay or neuter your dog to prevent mammary cancers
- Keep your dog away from carcinogens, like secondhand smoke
- Check your dog regularly for abnormal bumps or lumps
- Make sure your dog gets regular exercise
- Don’t let your dog drink from puddle water on the street- it could have carcinogens from cars
- Limit the number of vaccinations your dog gets to just the necessities. Some studies show that over vaccinating your dog can hurt their immune system and lead to chronic diseases, like cancer.
- Wipe off your dog’s paws after going outside. You don’t want them to lick up any chemicals from sidewalks, streets or grassy areas.
