Dog Bladder Cancer

When dogs begin urinating or dribbling in the house, then owners should visit the veterinarian for a complete check up of the urinary tract for any signs of bacterial infection or dog bladder cancer. Canine urinary incontinence is the most significant symptom of a urinary tract problem.

Nevertheless, incontinence, must not be confused with frequent urination. It is this distinction that often helps to distinguish a bacterial infection from life-threatening conditions like bladder stones or cancer. Frequent urination is not involuntary and the dog is well aware of it. There is just a strong unmanageable urge to urinate caused by canine urinary infection. Incontinence is involuntary urination and is caused by an obstruction in the passage that causes accumulated urine to put back pressure resulting in leakage.

Obstruction in the urinary passage may be due to migratory bladder stones that hinder free flow of urine or may be due to a cancerous growth. Cancer is a malignant growth stimulated by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division that forms a mass (tumor) of unwanted cells that perform no function. A tumor in the bladder may grow in size and block up the passage. Dog bladder cancer is mostly malignant, invasive and difficult to operate on. Medication requires toxic drugs that have severe side effects.

It is indeed an ill-fated dog who is diagnosed with a malignant growth in the bladder because the established treatment choices are so restricted and comparatively ineffective. Dog owners can only hope to extend survival time with medication.

Alternative medicine can assist in improving the quality of life by rendering substantial relief from symptoms. Some herbs that can supply symptomatic treatment and aid in slowing down the growth of cancer and promoting the immune system include:

* Astragalus - Chemotherapy and radiation used for treatment of bladder cancer often compromise the patient’s immune system.

* Astralalus is a recommended herb that helps to reestablish immune operation and may prevent spread of the tumor. * Mistletoe - This herb has long been utilised for its anti-cancer attributes and proves to be a beneficial supportive treatment.

* Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) - This Ayurvedic herb is highly recommended for improving general health. Regular use of Ashwagandha also increases hemoglobin levels. Its anti cancer, anti-inflammatory and soothing attributes can assist in providing the dog with an improved quality of life.

* Milk Thistle - Milk thistle is an ancient herb that has been subjected to many clinical trials. It can be used to counter the toxic side effects of established drugs. Its components are strong antioxidants that can block off the entry of toxins in the liver.

In addition to the above herbs, the following herbs need to be referred to as they can also play an crucial part in preventing and treating urinary tract infection in dogs as well as managing bladder cancer.

Echinacea purpurea
Bladderack
Buchu
Dandelion
Golden Seal

Even though dog bladder cancer is not entirely curable, good management of the disease could go a long way in enabling the ill-fated dog to lead a much more comfortable life.