Alternative Canine Leukemia Treatment

Summary:

"There are a number of alternative canine leukemia treatment options available, in many different disciplines including herbal supplements, acupuncture, acupressure and dietary change."

Herbal Treatment of Dog Leukemia

There are a number of herbal supplements recommended as part of an alternative canine leukemia treatment plan including:

  • Astragalus: This Chinese herbal remedy is used to strengthen the immune system to fight illness. Follow the directions for adult dosing.
  • Cat's Claw: This herb is known for its immune-enhancing and cancer-fighting properties. It is believed by many to shrink tumors. Use the regular adult dose for large dogs, 1/2 the dose for medium dogs, and 1/4 dose for small dogs.
  • Echinacea: This herb has long been used for its antibiotic properties. In dogs with cancer, it is used to stimulate the immune system to fight illness. Follow the directions for adult dosing.
  • Milk Thistle: This herb helps to detoxify the liver. It is useful to help protect the body from the toxic effects of chemotherapy during traditional leukemia treatment. Follow the instructions for adult dosing.
  • Pau D'Arco: This herb comes from South America. It is believed to reduce inflammation and fight cancer. Use the regular adult dose for large dogs, 1/2 the dose for medium dogs, and 1/4 dose for small dogs.

A good source for more information is PetAlive C-Caps Formula for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer in Pets.

Canine Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an alternative canine leukemia treatment that involves inserting very thin needles at certain points of the body in order to stimulate energy and healing. It is an ancient oriental practice and has been proven to be very effective. Your dog may need to be sedated during the acupuncture session, as he may find it difficult to lie still long enough; on the other hand, the session may be relaxing for him once he gets started and he may do fine with no sedation at all.

Acupuncture is useful in treating pain associated with cancer, side effects from cancer medications such as nausea, and for stimulating the immune system. You will need to find a vet who is certified in acupuncture, which may take a bit of searching on your part.

Canine Acupressure

This is similar to acupuncture, only no needles are involved. Instead of inserting needles, the points are pressed gently but firmly. The advantage to this is that you can be taught to do it safely yourself.

Homemade Diet for Canine Leukemia

A homemade diet, rather than a commercial diet, is often part of an alternative canine leukemia treatment program. Here is a sample homemade diet recipe:

  • 2 oz boneless pork center loin chop (boiled or baked)
  • 4 oz tofu
  • 8 oz long grain brown rice
  • 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 whole carrots (boiled, then cut up)
  • 1 cup spinach (cooked)
  • 4 Tbs green bell pepper (chopped and steamed)
  • 4 broccoli spears (boiled, then cut up)

Start by mixing half of this diet with half of your dog's regular food. After a few days, use 75% of this food to 25% of his regular food. After a few days, serve only this food.

To complete the diet, add:

  • 1 tsp dry ground ginger
  • 2 raw garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 tsp bone meal

This diet will give your dog the right nutrition to help him fight disease and maintain maximum health.

Sources

Integrative Treatment of Cancer in Dogs
Clemmons, R.M. DVM

Herbalism
Buningh, Frances and Hambly, Paul