The Best Food for Dogs With Cancer
If your dog is suffering from cancer, you should speak with your veterinarian regarding an appropriate cancer diet. Whether you make homemade dog food or add supplements to commercial dog food, it is essential that any dog with cancer receives the nutrients and vitamins needed to fight cancer.
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Avoid Grains
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According to R.M. Clemmons, DVM, PhD, the Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Florida, grains should be avoided in the dog's cancer diet. Dogs evolved as meat eaters, and their bodies do not contain the enzymes they need to digest grains effectively.
Animal Proteins
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Animal protein sources with a high fat content should be an essential element of the dog's cancer diet. These foods include eggs, cottage cheese and essentially any type of meat, such as hamburger or ground turkey.
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Raw Meat
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Surprisingly, it is often recommended that dogs with cancer be placed on a raw food diet. In fact, K-9 Immunity, a leading manufacturer of veterinary-grade dog food, suggests feeding your dog raw meat, including beef, lamb, fish, turkey, chicken and pork. These meats provide proteins and fats that will strengthen the immune system.
Vegetables
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Vegetables also provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, and should constitute about 25 percent of your dog's cancer diet, according to K-9 Immunity's Raw Food Diet. Add the following vegetables to dog food: broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, celery and carrots.
Fish Oil Supplement
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Fish oil is a good supplement to add to your dog's cancer diet, as it is a good source of important fatty acids needed to fight cancer. The K-9 Immunity cancer diet plan suggests 1,000 mg of fish oil per 20 lbs. of body weight per day. However, you should speak with your veterinarian regarding the appropriate dosage for your dog's specific needs.
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