What to do if your dog is diagnosed with cancer

The dreaded “C” word. When your veterinarian comes to you and says it, it feels like time has stopped. You may even deny it at first. But, unfortunately, it’s a bitter truth that many pet owners are faced with – their dog has been diagnosed with cancer. Now’s the time, however, for action. Once your dog has been diagnosed, there are things you should do to make your pet as comfortable as possible, give you peace of mind, and may even increase your dog’s chance of survival.

#1 – Follow Instructions

Make sure you do everything your vet tells you to. The vet that diagnosed it will give you specific recommendation in regards to timely rechecks, medication, etc., and you need to follow them, says Dr. Kathryn Primm, , owner of Applebrook Animal Hospital and the “Animal Stuff You Wonder About” blog.

#2 – Healthy Diet

Dr. Prim also says now it even more important that your dog is on a healthy diet. Speak to your vet about the best food you could possibly be giving him and make sure you those recommendations.

#3 – Continue Exercising

Your dog will have a better chance at fighting his cancer if you keep him healthy. That includes exercise to keep a healthy weight, which Dr. Primm says is “very important.”

#4 – See an Oncologist

There are canine oncologists and if you would feel better about it, ask to be referred to one for treatment of your dog’s cancer. It never hurts to cover all your bases and they may have access to treatments your regular vet does not, like this scanner.

#5 – Second Opinion

This is a scary time in the life of a pet owner. If you aren’t sure about what your vet says, or don’t feel the options she has to offer are right for you and your dog, it’s okay to go another vet and see what they say. Peace of mind is important at this time and you should do all you can to get it.

Video: If your dog was diagnosed with cancer would you pay for treatments?

#6 – Cherish Your Time

Don’t forget to take time and cherish the moments you have with your pet while he is still feeling good. In the early stages, you can often continue to do all the things the two of you love, and you should do so for as long as possible.

#7 – Create a Bucket List

A lot of pet owners are finding peace by creating and carrying out a bucket list for their best friend. It may include eating things you would not normally give him (like that fattening hot dog, just once), or taking a trip to his favorite place, getting professional pictures taken (I am so thankful for the ones I got of my childhood dog), etc.

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