I find it hard to accept that one in three dogs will develop cancer. This statistic feels incredibly high. Recently, I’ve watched friends, coworkers, and family members lose their beloved dogs to cancer, and this harsh reality has deeply affected me.

Why is this happening to our fur babies? I really don’t have an answer. However, I refuse to believe that this is just how it is. There has to be more that we can do to protect these fantastic companions. As we continue to ask these questions and look for answers. Our focus needs to be on early detection and prevention.

What can we do when our dogs are diagnosed with cancer?

Stay Positive, our pets can tell when something is wrong with us. Since they live in the moment, the best thing you can do is live in the moment with them.

Educate yourself about your pet’s cancer; remember that knowledge is power. There are many ways to help your pet maintain a good quality of life using holistic and Western medicine. We gained significant insights during Kudo’s experience with cancer, and we continue to use many of the holistic remedies that supported him.

Maintain your dog’s quality of life. It’s important to embrace each day and do what your dog loves. For Kudo, this meant baking in the sunshine while laying in the grass. He also enjoyed taking strolls to smell everything and having adventures in the woods.

Quality of Life: It’s important to focus on your pet’s quality of life. Ask your vet for a quality-of-life scale and use it.

• Is your pet eating and drinking enough?
• Does your pet show signs of excitement and joy?
• Is your pet able to get around without assistance?
• Is your pet confused and uneasy?
• Does your pet have more good days than bad?

Many cancers are found too late, and while advancements are being made to help,we are not there yet. Our pets need us to be their advocates, whether for cancer or anything else.

Know that you are not alone. Join support groups that align with your dog’s cancer treatment. These can be holistic, western, palliative, or a mix of all. Someone else is going through the same thing.