By Tess Thompson
A large number of companion dogs live inside the house and are trained to urinate out in the open. When such dogs start urinating or dribbling in the house, it is time for owners to visit the veterinarian for a thorough check up of the urinary tract for any signs of bacterial infection.
Canine and feline urinary incontinence is the most significant symptom of a urinary tract malfunctioning. Incontinence, however, must be differentiated from frequent urination. It is this differentiation that often helps to differentiate a bacterial infection from serious conditions like bladder stones or cancer. Frequent urination is not involuntary and the dog is aware of it. There is just a strong uncontrollable urge to urinate caused by canine or feline urinary infection. Incontinence is involuntary urination and is caused by a blockage in the passage that causes accumulated urine to put back pressure resulting in leakage.
Blockage in the urinary passage may be caused by migratory bladder stones that obstruct free flow of urine or may be due to a cancerous growth. Cancer is a malignant growth caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division that forms a mass (tumor) of unwanted cells that perform no function. A tumor in the bladder may increase in size and block the passage. Bladder cancer in dogs is mostly malignant, invasive and difficult to operate.
Medication involves toxic drugs that have serious side effects. It is indeed an unlucky dog who is diagnosed with malignant growth in the bladder since the conventional treatment options are so limited and relatively ineffective. Dog owners can only hope to prolong survival time with medication.
Alternative medicine can help in improving the quality of life by providing significant relief from symptoms. Some herbs that can provide symptomatic treatment and help in slowing the growth of cancer and boosting 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 restore immune functioning and may prevent spread of the tumor.
– Mistletoe – This herb has long been used for its anti-cancer properties and proves to be a good 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 calming properties can help in providing the dog with a better quality of life.
– Milk Thistle – Milk thistle is an ancient herb that has been subjected to numerous clinical trials. It can be used to counter the toxic side effects of conventional drugs. Its ingredients are strong antioxidants that can block the entry of toxins in the liver.
In addition to the above herbs, the following herbs need to be mentioned as they can also play an important role in preventing and treating urinary tract infection in dogs along with managing bladder cancer.
– Echinacea purpurea
– Bladderack
– Buchu
– Dandelion
– Golden Seal
Even though bladder cancer is not completely curable, effective management of the disease can go a long way in enabling the unlucky animal to lead a comfortable life.
Article courtesy of PetAlive for Herbal Remedies for Pets!
References:
http://www.herbal-treatments.com/dog_cancer_bladder.html http://www.herbal-treatments.com/king.html
http://www.herbal-dogkeeping.com/dog_cancer_bladder.html http://www.dog-health-guide.org/bladdercancerfordog.html