The Human – Canine bond might be stronger than you think. Did you know that dogs are the only species other than humans to develop lethal prostate cancer? Or that canine breast cancer spreads to dogs’ bones just as it does in women? Or that the most common form of canine cancer, osteosarcoma, is one that afflicts teens?
A new field called Comparative Oncology has emerged and it brings together canine oncologists, medical oncologists, the pharmaceutical industry and academic research facilities who are looking at how information about canine cancer can shed light on human cancer, as well as looking for new treatment and compassionate care for both.
Surprisingly, in the document I read, cancer prevention is a relatively new concept, unlike the one of prevention of heart disease that’s been around for decades.
Cancer prevention for both humans and dogs (and other species) is relatively simple.
1. Eat/feed a species-appropriate diet that includes whole, fresh foods.
2. Reduce exposure to toxins, including commercial pesticides and household cleaners. (They reside in brand name products you’ve come to know and trust through years of brand identidy created in the golden age of advertising.)
3. Reduce stress. Your stress trickles down to those around you, be they human or animal. Yoga, meditation, Reiki, exercise, knitting, reading – any of these enjoyable pursuits can extend your life, and the life of your pet. (well not the knitting or reading part so much except by extension.)
Take a look at the Organic Consumer Association website for tips on finding real eco-friendly (not just what the label says) and safe cleaning products.
0 Responses
Stay in touch with the conversation, subscribe to the RSS feed for comments on this post.