Another vets list of cancer herbs and comments

"Cancer represents a unique state whereby the body's healing system fails to eliminate cells with damaged or altered DNA. This allows these cells to escape the normal regulatory signals leading to uncontrolled cell growth. While most auto-immune diseases represent a failure of the healing system from an over-active immune system, cancer represents the extreme opposite, whereby the immune system is hypoactive (at least in regard to the tumor).

While we are beginning to unravel the complex biochemistry of cancer development and have begun to understand how DNA is damaged and repaired, we still have a long way to go before the cure for cancer will be found. Spontaneous healing of cancer has been documented many times in human beings and animals, suggesting that a cure is possible.


Chemotherapy uses compounds which are toxic to the body and destroys the animal's immune system, hoping that the tumor is killed before the patient. While animals do not suffer all of the side-effects as human beings undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy, these treatments can still have significant and, in some cases, life-threatening side-effects in dogs. Owners must weigh the benefits and the risks carefully before making the decision to put their pet through radiation treatments or chemotherapy.

To me, the answer to cancer lies in the immune system. This is the major reason why I have trouble with chemotherapy. Spontaneous remission from cancer only occurs when the patient's immune system acts to clear the cancer. Therefore, stimulation of the patient's immune system to selectively attack the cancer seems to be the key to achieving a successful outcome. New methods in immunotherapy and immunotargeted chemotherapy are likely be the Western methods which lead to the greatest advances in cancer treatment over the next few decades.
Traditional Eastern medicine has also been used successfully in the treatment of cancer for thousands of years, long before we understood the basic pathobiology of tumors. It is not a replacement for Western diagnosis and therapy, but may be used with Western approaches to help heal patients. When the option for Western therapy is lacking, there are Eastern therapies which can be employed to help the patient live a quality life, reducing the rate to cancer expansion or, in some cases, leading to remission of the cancer. Eastern medicine may be best suited to prevention of the development of cancer through healthy living. On the other hand, herbal medications have been shown to lead to spontaneous remissions of cancer. In some cases, these herbal products can be used in conjunction with traditional Western therapies, improving the outcome and reducing the side-effects from Western therapy alone. An integrative approach combining the best of both Western and Eastern medicine seems to be the only sensible course of action, providing the best overall care for the patient.
Reducing risk factors for cancer, eating a properly balanced diet (free of pesticides and preservatives), drinking pure water, providing appropriate anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals, and exercising regularly can help prevent cancer. Once cancer has been found, additional supportive measures are needed. Cancer cells utilize carbohydrates for fuel and compete for the body for amino acids. However, these cancer cells do not metabolize fats. Some data suggests that high fat diets can help the patient overcome the effects of cancer and even reduce cancer expansion. A number of herbal products can stimulate the immune system to attack cancer or block the mediators which the tumor uses to spread to other areas of the body, mediators which the tumor needs to survive. The following is a guide to the integrative treatment of cancer, using those compounds where there is scientific data to support their use in cancer management, helping the patient survive the disease.

Although eating healthy is the best tool in the fight against cancer, once cancer takes hold certain dietary changes may be help the patient fight against the effects of the cancer. Tumor cells rely heavily upon carbohydrates for their energy and rob the body of amino acids. On the other hand, tumor cells cannot utilize lipids (fats) for energy while the rest of the body can. As such, diets with increased fat content may slow tumor growth, allowing the patient to fight against the tumor. Protein content must be maintained a levels sufficient for tissue repair, but carbohydrates should be held to a minimum. For those who prefer to prepare their dogs food, the following diet contains the ingredients important for cancer patients. In addition, it supplies the important nutrients for cancer protection. For those who can not cook for their dog, a commercial food should be of good quality, moderate protein (AT LEAST 22%) content, low carbohydrate (3-13%) content, and high fat (55-60%) content."

Vitamins & Antioxidants:
The vitamins and antioxidants for cancer patients are the same for all dogs, including vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, beta-carotene, ginkgo bilboa, green tea and grape seed extract. In addition, the membrane stabilizers omega-3-fatty acids, gammalinolenic acid and coenzyme Q-10 are important for cancer patients. Many of the antioxidants help stabilize DNA and help reduce cancer development or progression. Some data suggests that antioxidants can reduce the effectiveness of radiation and chemotherapy, but this is not well documented. It may be best to stop antioxidants 3 days before radiation therapy or at the start of chemotherapy, reinstituting the antioxidants a few days later. Most of the herbal antioxidants are good for preventing cancer, too.

Immunostimulants:

Astragalus:
Another Chinese herbal remedy with similar properties comes from the root of a plant in the pea family, Astragalus membranaceus. This plant is a relative of our locoweed, which is toxic to livestock. The Chinese species is nontoxic, the source of a very popular medicine called huang qi that you can buy in any drugstore in China for use against colds, flus, and other respiratory infections. Recent studies in the West confirm its antiviral and immune-boosting effects, and preparations are now available in most health food stores here. Follow the directions for adult dosing.

Anti-Cancer herbs:

Cat's Claw (una de gato):
Cat's claw (name derived from the pattern of thorns found on the vines), Uncaria tomentosa, comes from the Peruvian rain forest and was traditional used by the indigenous people to threat cancer and arthritis. Recent studies indicate that it contains immune-enhancing substances, including several antioxidant compounds. These compounds may account for the antitumor properties reported for cat's claw. Treatments have been reported to lead to remission of brain and other tumors. While published data is lacking, cat's claw should be considered in tumors of the central nervous system. Use ¼ the adult human dose for small dogs, ½ for medium dogs and the equivalent dose in large dogs.

Reishi and Maitake Mushrooms:
Like astragalus, mushroom extracts stimulate the patient's immune system by presenting unique macromolecules to the intestinal tract, where they alter the immune regulation by intestinal antigen processing systems. In addition, maitake mushroom extract has been shown to activate NK Killer cells which attack tumor cells and to prevent destruction of T-Helper cells. There is no known toxicity from these mushroom extracts. Use ¼ the adult human dose for small dogs, ½ for medium dogs and the equivalent dose in large dogs.



Other Dietary Supplements:

Milk Thistle:
Milk thistle is an herbal product that helps protect the liver from toxic damage. It may be useful in treating chronic active hepatitis or as a prevention of injury from other drugs. It has been used to protect the liver from damage from chemotherapy in human patients. It may also help prevent
damage from traditional anti-convulsants (phenobarbital). I recommend starting at 1 capsule twice a day.



"By Dr. Charles Loops DVM

Amygdalin (Laetrile) – also known as Vitamin B17, amygdalin is found in the seeds of apricots, peaches, cherries and plums. I have very little experience in using this in animals. No evidence of curative responses.

Arginine (L–Arginine) – an amino acid shown to have some cancer fighting properties when extra supplementation is added to diet. I recommend 500mg. to 1500mg. daily added to food. Available online and in health food stores.

Artemisinin  – an extract of sweet wormwood from China used mainly as an anti-malarial drug but may have cancer fighting properties. There have been several recent articles about using this with osteosarcoma. Anti-oxidants may interfere with effectiveness if given within 6 hours. Toxicity is very low. Dosages in the range of 80mg. to 100mg. twice daily for a large dog have been proposed. Available online

Astragalus – see Chinese Herbs




Bioflavonoids – found in foods containing Vitamin C. Compounds such as citrin, hesperidin, rutin, and quercetin. Seem to support the anti-oxidant properties of Vitamin C.

Brewer's Yeast: Has been shown to help animals resist infection. It is a rich source of B vitamins, amino acids, selenium, chromium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, zinc, and other trace elements. (Natural Remedies for Dogs and Cats by CJ Puotinen)
(Lucy loves the nutty taste it adds to her food) 

Carnivora – extract of the Venus Flytrap, an insect eating plant. Seems to have cancer fighting properties but probably works by stimulation of T-helper cells. I have not seen any dramatic or significant results in cases where this was used. Dosage extrapolated from human dosages. Expensive. I have concern for environmental impact to the plant. It is a rare species. Available online.

Cat’s Claw (Una de gato) – from the vine of a Peruvian plant. Has anti-oxidant and immune enhancing properties. May be useful. Use extrapolated human dosages. Widely available.

Chinese Herbs - There are many Chinese herbal combinations for cancer therapy. The two I most often use in my practice are Astragalus 10+, a combination of Astragalus and ten other herbs to boost the immune system, and Chih-ko and Circuma, a tumor fighting combination of herbs. Dosages vary.

Chlorella – a fresh-water, single celled algae taken for high chlorophyll content, anti-oxidant effect, and high vitamin content. Seems to have cancer fighting properties. Larger doses may be more effective. Widely available.

CoEnzyme Q10- naturally occurring substance found in sardines, soybean and grapeseed oils, sesame seeds, pistachios, and spinach. Seems to have cancer fighting properties when given at the 300mg. per day level or greater. Expensive at high doses. Widely available.

Colostrum – first milk from cow’s after parturition. Has immune factors that help boost T-helper Cells along with other immune boosting properties. Most beneficial in high doses. Widely available, online and health food stores. See Transfer Factor also.

Curcumin (Tumeric) – yellow pigment that is the main component of Tumeric, an Indian herb in the ginger family. Seems to have anti-carcinogenic properties at many levels of cancer as a prevention and treatment. Has been used effectively for tumor shrinkage topically as a paste also. Exact dosages unknown. Available in grocery stores and specialty stores.

Echinacea – an herbal stimulant for the immune system. Doesn’t seem to be of use in cancer. Better used as an herbal for acute infections. Astragalus is better for cancer use.

Essiac – a combination of herbals taken as a tea, tincture or capsule. Formulas vary somewhat but all contain burdock, Indian rhubarb, sheep sorrel, and slippery elm. Historically has been given in treating cancer both for pain relief and tumor shrinkage. Mainly the effects seem palliative; recent use for treating cancer seems less effective. My research would agree with the latter. I have seen very little in positive responses. Essiac is Caisse spelled backwards, the last name of the Canadian woman who formulated the herbal combination. The recipe was originally from a Native American Tribe based in Ontario, Canada. Widely available in many forms. Dosages extrapolated from human dose.

Evening Primrose Oil: This oil stimulates the thymus to produce t-cells, which help fight infection and cancer. (Keeping Your Dog Healthy the Natural Way by Pat Lazarus)
GLA from evening primrose oil, have been found to kill a number of tumor-cell lines and cause a significant reduction in tumor growth in animal studies. (Herbal Medicine, Healing & Cancer" by Donald Yance)

Fish Oil – a rich source of Omega 3’s which have been shown to have cancer fighting and preventative effects. Salmon Oil is probably the best source. Dosages range from 1000mg. to 5000mg. daily. Found in many combination products with Flaxseed Oil and Borage Oil. Straight Fish Oil seems better utilized for dogs and cats, whereas the combination products work well for people. Widely available.

Flaxseed Oil – used the same way as fish oil. Often used in combination with cottage cheese to fight cancer.

Goldenseal – used as herbal immune stimulant. Astragalus seems more appropriate.

Grapeseed Extract (Pycnogenol) – a potent anti-oxidant. Useful as a part of any cancer protocol. Dosages are 1-2 mg. per lb. body weight per day. Doesn’t seem useful in higher dosages. Widely available. Some think Pycnogenol, a similar substance extracted from Pine Bark, is more potent. It is also more expensive.

Green Tea – seems to have several anti-carcinogenic properties both for prevention and treatment. May be impractical, as large amounts are probably required to have much effect therapeutically. Widely available.

Hoxsey Formula – similar to Essiac and Objiwa - a combination of herbals containing red clover, buckthorn bark, barberry bark, chaparral, licorice root, Cascara amarga, and prickly ash bark. Bloodroot is sometimes added to make an external formula for topical application. There are many formulations available. There are no studies supporting its effectiveness.

Inositol – an unofficial B-vitamin. Found in many high fiber foods. Converted to lecithin in the body. May have some cancer fighting properties such as angiogenesis or the reduction of blood supply to tumors. IP6 is similar.  Dosages extrapolated from human dosages. Widely available.

Iscador (Mistletoe) – fermented extracts from European mistletoe. Often injected, rather than taken orally. Used widely in Europe. Has had only mixed results in research, although varieties of extracts available to me have been limited.

Maitake Mushrooms (Shitake) – stimulates T-helper cells and generally boosts the immune system. Potent immune boosters. Found in many combination products. Dosages extrapolated from human dosages. Widely available.


Lipoic acid (alpha-lipoic acid)
Melatonin
Milk Thistle
NAC – N-acetyl-cysteine
 - all natural supplements that stimulate the production of glutathione in the cells.  Glutathione is the ultimate antioxidant, because it is the one that works at the mitochondrial level within the cell.  Both as a cancer preventative and an adjunct therapy where cancer is already present, I strongly recommend these products and use it as part of my protocol.  Glutathione is classified as an “orphan drug” (though not a drug at all) by the FDA for promoting weight gain and preventing weight loss with cancer patients.  It also has a strong anti-inflammatory effect with the addition of Cordyceps mushrooms, plus the glutathione produced destroys free-radicals and restores normal cellular function.



Nosodes (Isodes) – remedies made from cancer cells or tumors and taken orally or injected. These can be made specifically from the patient’s own tumor (Isode) or a generic tumor can be used (Nosode). These are diluted and succussed and work homeopathically. I have read about some results with this approach depending on the type of cancer and the patient. Hard to find.

Omega 3’s – active ingredient in Fish Oils, Flaxseed Oils and Borage Oil. Helpful in prevention and treatment of cancer.


Poly MVA – supposedly a DNA nutrient that repairs abnormal genes that have set the cancer cascade in motion. A natural substance generally well-tolerated, I have seen some cats react adversely to it. Considered a mineral-vitamin. I have seen little difference in cases where this was used. Very expensive. Dosages extrapolated from human dosages.

Pycnogenol – see Grapeseed Extract

Quercetin – a bioflavonoid. Seems most helpful with stomach cancers. Dosages extrapolated from human dosage. Available online and in health food stores.

Selenium – trace mineral complimentary and synergistically with Vitamin E. Helpful in prevention of cancer and may be useful in treatment in conjunction with Vitamin E. Mega doses not recommended. Dosages range from 50 to 200mcg. Daily. Readily available.

Shark Cartilage – usage is based on the premise that sharks don’t get cancer. That is not science. Research does not have much going for it. I have not seen any results with shark cartilage use and I object to the harvesting of sharks for this purpose. Amounts required are completely impractical for cats.

Soy Products – anti-carcinogenic effects from fermented soy products have been shown in people. Carnivores don’t metabolize soy protein very effectively and this doesn’t seem to be an effective part of therapy for dogs and cats.

Spirulina – another “green” supplement. See Chorella.

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) – neutralizes free radicals that cause cancer and that cancer cells release. An anti-oxidant enzyme. Widely available. Dosages extrapolated for human doses.

Tamoxifen – blocks estrogen activity that stimulates certain cancers such as mammary tumors. Dosages extrapolated. Prescription medication.

Transfer Factors (Transfer Factor Plus) – extracts of colostrums where the immune factors have been concentrated into a supplement. Much more specific and concentrated than colostrums, but can be used in conjunction with each other.

Vitamins A and D are fat soluble and can be overdosed if given high dosages every day.

B vitamins are water soluble and excess will be excreted, so overdosing is not a problem. In general, giving a B-complex is best so as to keep ratios in line between different B’s. Giving a 10mg. complex to cats and up to a 100mg. complex for larger dogs is appropriate.

Vitamin C can be dosed high or low. In general, I recommend about 500mg. for a cat daily and up to 2000mg. for a large dog. At these levels any type of Vitamin C can be used for most animals. If you choose to give higher doses, then you should use Ester C’s should be used to avoid stomach difficulties.

Vitamin E should be given dosing from 100 IU’s daily for cats to 400 IU’s daily for large dogs. There is no evidence to show higher doses are beneficial especially when other anti-oxidants are being given.

Willard’s Water – a blend of minerals with water in a concentrate. Adding one ounce per gallon of drinking water seems to facilitate the removal of heavy metals from the system. May be useful in helping to detoxify while undergoing cancer therapy.

Wobenzyme – a German formulation of digestive enzymes that may be helpful in an overall cancer protocol. Formulations contain lipase, amylase, rutin, pancreatin, papain, bromelain, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Dosages extrapolated from human dosages. "


The above list is similar but not same as Lucy's list of pills. Just thought I should show other similar research that an actual vet says.





Lucy never did radiation or chemo, she only did the Tippner Protocol. The Tippner Cancer Protocol combines immunotherapy and molecular cancer therapy using off the shelf readily available inexpensive natural substances. She is past 3 years after diagnosis by biopsy

I buy most of the stuff from Swanson Vitamins. They are cheaper, in capsules for dosage changes, and carry almost everything I give to Lucy except for the Chinese Herbs Stasis Breaker prescription, and the Low Dose Naltrexone prescription. Here is a $5 off coupon link I found

Lucy's Birthday BBQ Steak Dinner 2014

 Lucy's Birthday BBQ Steak Dinner 2014.

She is now 11 with cancer since 3/2011.

What's going on?  Is this for me?

 Oh, man! Hey, look at the Time magazine! Cover up ya pink ape. Geez. 

I guess I have to show I am really still alive! Vets don't believe it...

 Num num num num  (this lasted only seconds). All gone.... so fast.

 When do I get to open my present?

 It's a.... a.... another squeek bone. Gee thanks.... never enough of them I guess. 

Where are the rest of them anyway? Oh, yes, I buried them all.

 I had a pretty good birthday. I'm 11!

Sometime later that day....
Dessert?! Blueberries and whipped cream!

 I love Lucy.





Lucy never did radiation or chemo, she only did the Tippner Protocol. The Tippner Cancer Protocol combines immunotherapy and molecular cancer therapy using off the shelf readily available inexpensive natural substances in this list. She is past 3 years after diagnosis by biopsy

I buy most of the stuff from Swanson Vitamins. They are cheaper, in capsules for dosage changes, and carry almost everything I give to Lucy except for the Chinese Herbs Stasis Breaker prescription, and the Low Dose Naltrexone prescription. Here is a $5 off coupon link I found

If you really want to do chemo read this

"While Lucy is still doing OK, if the natural protocol she is on might no longer is work (it's been working over 3 years at this point) I still have to consider and research what still might be on the table for quality of life. I don't like chemotherapy or radiation(hate it more) but never say never till you are there. I felt I should put in the blog items on chemo and other stuff that I come across. The below has pros and cons. But either way, if you use chemotherapy you MUST use supporting supplements and herbs or the cancer will come back worse." Gary

Aust Vet J. 2004 Nov;82(11):676-80.

Treatment of eight dogs with nasal tumours with alternating doses of doxorubicin and carboplatin in conjunction with oral piroxicam.

Langova V¹, Mutsaers AJ, Phillips B, Straw R.

Author information

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the efficacy and toxicity of chemotherapy in the treatment of canine nasal tumours.

DESIGN:

Retrospective clinical study

PROCEDURE:

Eight dogs with histologically confirmed nasal tumours were staged by means of complete blood count, serum biochemical analysis, cytological analysis of fine needle aspirate of the regional lymph nodes, thoracic radiographs and computed tomography scan of the nasal cavity. All dogs were treated with alternating doses of doxorubicin, carboplatin and oral piroxicam. All dogs were monitored for side effects of chemotherapy and evaluated for response to treatment by computed tomography scan of the nasal cavity after the first four treatments.

RESULTS:

Complete remission was achieved in four dogs, partial remission occurred in two dogs and two had stable disease on the basis of computed tomography evaluation. There was resolution of clinical signs after one to two doses of chemotherapy in all dogs.

CONCLUSIONS:

This chemotherapy protocol was efficacious and well tolerated in this series of eight cases of canine nasal tumours.

J Vet Intern Med. 2004 Jul-Aug;18(4):540-4.

Alternating carboplatin and doxorubicin as adjunctive chemotherapy to amputation or limb-sparing surgery in the treatment of appendicular osteosarcoma in dogs.

Kent MS¹, Strom A, London CA, Seguin B.

Author information

Abstract

Thirty-two dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma treated by amputation or limb sparing had adjuvant chemotherapy of alternating doses of carboplatin (300 mg/m2 IV) and doxorubicin (30 mg/m2 IV) every 21 days for a total of 3 cycles. Efficacy, toxicity, and previously identified prognostic factors for osteosarcoma were evaluated. The median progression free survival was 227 days (range 180-274), and the median overall survival was 320 days (range 153-487). The 1-year survival rate was 48%, and the 2-year survival rate was 18%. Age, sex, surgical procedure, and alkaline phosphatase activity above the reference ranges were not prognostic for survival. There was minimal toxicity associated with the chemotherapy. This protocol could be useful for the adjuvant treatment of appendicular osteosarcoma of dogs.

PMID:

 

15320595

 

[PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Commonly Used Chemotherapy Drugs

Doxorubicin (Adriamycin®) – Administered by IV every 2-3 weeks; side effects include those listed above and potential damage to the heart muscle. We recommend performing a heart function exam (echocardiogram) in some dogs before starting this drug. Less than 10% of all pets develop heart problems with this drug.

ADRIAMYCIN (doxorubicin) Please discuss all information with your vet
Adriamycin (doxorubicin) is a broad spectrum chemotherapy drug used to fight many forms of cancer and has been used for decades. Adriamycin is an orange-red liquid, which is diluted and painlessly administered directly into a vein. The slow intravenous administration of Adriamycin usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The patient lies quietly on a padded table during administration and rarely needs any form of sedation.
The dose is calculated by a measurement called Body Surface Area, which your veterinarian can calculate based on your dog's weight. Baseline complete blood count should be done before the first administration of adriamycin. You should also check with your vet about testing for kidney function and liver function. Your vet may also prescribe medicine to administer for nausea, vomiting or diarrhea which can occur (see below).
Please note: One of the major side effects of adriamycin is the potential to affect heart function. When it occurs, it usually develops after several doses. Breeds that are prone to having underlying heart conditions, dogs with a large heart on xray and dogs with a previous history of heartworm infection should have baseline EKG (heart rhythm tracing) and possibly echocardiograms (heart ultrasound) before receiving adriamycin. This is not mandatory for every dog but needs to be discussed with your veterinarian and oncologist.
Other side effects:
Hair loss: Pets rarely lose their hair, and if they do, they are not bothered by it as much as people are. In most pet animals, hair does not grow continually though out their lives like it does in people. Therefore, hair loss in pets is rare. Exceptions are certain breeds of dogs, such as poodles, Old English Sheepdogs and other breeds whose hair grows continually. In general, if your pet needs to visit a groomer periodically to be clipped, then your pet may experience some degree of hair loss as a result of chemotherapy. Cats may, however, lose all or most of their whiskers. Please ask your pet's doctor about the possibility of hair loss in your pet.
Reduction in the Number of White Blood Cells (Neutropenia): There are various types of cells in the blood. The decrease in the number of infection-fighting white blood cells is known as neutropenia. Many chemotherapeutic agents impair the bone marrow's ability to produce cells. As a result, neutropenia may occur seven to ten days after chemotherapy. Neutropenia, alone, is not a danger to your pet. However, your pet's ability to fight off infection is impaired by neutropenia. Therefore, prior to each chemotherapy treatment, your pet should have a blood test performed called a complete blood count (CBC). Should your pet have a significant reduction in the number of white blood cells, your veterinarian may wish to perform periodic blood tests, and/or prescribe antibiotics to protect your pet from infection.
Stomach or Intestinal (Gastrointestinal) Discomfort: Many patients experience some form of stomach or intestinal discomfort two or seven days after a chemotherapy treatment. Your veterinarian will prescribe medication to try to prevent or treat the discomfort. Below are listed some steps you can take at home.

Tissue damage: If Adriamycin is accidentally given outside the vein, severe tissue reactions can result, leading to tissue destruction. Therefore, Adriamycin is handled with the utmost care, and should only be administered by highly trained professionals. Secure intravenous access is paramount. If irritation of the injection site develops in the form of pain, swelling or redness, apply ice packs for 15 minutes every three hours. Call your veterinarian as soon as possible, and certainly if the condition persists for more than 24 hours.
Allergic Reactions: Allergic reaction to chemotherapeutic agents is rare, and not a problem you will have to treat at home. Should your pet have an allergic reaction to Adriamycin, it would develop upon administration, and your veterinarian and the hospital staff are trained to treat patients for allergic reaction.
Heart Damage: Adriamycin, in some rare cases, can irreversibly damage the heart muscle. The dose of Adriamycin prescribed for your pet is below the dose that usually causes heart disease. Less than 10% of patients develop heart disease as a result of Adriamycin chemotherapy. Your veterinarian will discontinue the use of Adrimycin if heart disease is detected at any time.

Find out from your oncologist what can be done to minimize the risk of heart toxicity. Ask about the use of Co Enzyme Q-10 to protect against heart disease from adriamycin. There is also a medication called Zinecard (dexrazoxane) which is used in humans to prevent toxicity from adriamycin. Ask your oncologist if your dog is a candidate for this medication if available.

Carboplatin (Paraplatin®) – Administered by IV every 3-4 weeks; side effects can include those listed above, but this drug is generally easier on the stomach and intestines.

Platinum compounds, such as carboplatin, are some of the newest agents being used in cancer therapy. They have been used with success in many types of human cancer. Although the use of these agents in animals is relatively new, they have shown promise in a variety of tumors. Carboplatin is a clear agent that is painlessly administered directly into the vein over 15-20 minutes. The patient lies quietly on a padded table during administration and rarely needs any form of sedation.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OF CARBOPLATIN:
Reduction in the Number of White Blood Cells (Neutropenia). There are various types of cells in the blood. The decrease in the number of infection fighting white blood cells is known as neutropenia. Many chemotherapeutic agents impair the bone marrow's ability to produce cells. As a result, neutropenia may occur between 10 to 21 days after chemotherapy. Neutropenia alone is not a danger to your pet. However, your pet's ability to fight off infection is impaired by neutropenia. Therefore, prior to each carboplatin treatment, your pet will get a blood test called a Complete Blood Count (CBC). Should your pet have a significant reduction in the number of white blood cells, your veterinarian may wish to perform periodic blood tests, and/or prescribe antibiotics to protect your pet from infection.
Stomach or Intestinal (Gastrointestinal) Discomfort. Many patients experience some form of stomach or intestinal discomfort two to seven days after a chemotherapy treatment. Your veterinarian will prescribe medication to try to prevent or treat the discomfort. Some veterinarians recommend giving the medication even if there are no overt signs of discomfort. Please discuss this with your vet.  

Piroxicam (Feldene®) – Administered by mouth daily. This is simply a COX-2 inhibitor like Advil/Ibuprofen but made for dogs. Dogs cannot take Ibuprofen, that is toxic to dogs.  This drug can cause ulcers in the stomach or intestine. Notify your pet’s clinician if you observe loss of appetite, vomiting, or dark/tarlike stools, which could be a sign of digested blood from an ulcer. (I USE MELOXICAM IT HAS SOMEWHAT LESS SIDE EFFECTS AND I ALWAYS USE IT WITH PEPCID OR TAGAMET)

Piroxicam, a COX‐2‐inhibiting NSAID, is a potential antiangiogenic agent since it inhibits PGE2, which has proangiogenic effects. Some tumors will up‐regulate COX‐2 enzymes resulting in increases in growth factors, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Piroxicam is the most well studied NSAID, however, additional NSAIDs are currently undergoing evaluation in cancers such as transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The dose of piroxicam is 0.3 mg/kg daily to every other day. 

What sort of side effects may my pet have with chemotherapy?
The highest quality of life for your pet is our goal, but to be effective in controlling a devastating disease like cancer, chemotherapy drugs are very powerful. Fortunately, pets don’t have as many side effects as humans going through chemotherapy do. Hair loss (alopecia), common in humans but rare in dogs. It is seen mainly with breeds that have constantly growing hair (poodle, shih tzu, cocker spaniel, etc.). Cats generally do not lose body hair, but often lose their whiskers. Chemotherapy will slow the re-growth of hair in all pets receiving chemotherapy so grooming should be adjusted accordingly. Other potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea - most of which are easily controlled with medications / diet change and only last for a few days. A common side effect with many chemotherapy treatments is a decrease in the white blood cell count. This could make them more susceptible to contracting infections if the decrease is severe. You must routinely check the blood cell counts before every chemotherapy treatment to insure that the white blood cell count is not dangerously low.

Although the above are the most common potential side effects, they occur in less than 30% of the pets receiving chemotherapy. Other side effects are possible, but are often unique to individual drugs (listed above).

How should I handle body fluids while my pet is on chemotherapy?
Do not handle feces, urine or vomitus unless absolutely necessary within 24 hours of the chemo administration. If your pet has an “accident”, wear gloves and clean the area with disposable items (paper towels, baby diapers, etc.) and dispose in the trash. Wash your hands thoroughly when you are finished cleaning. In general, it is recommended that clothing/ bedding which is soiled by feces, urine or vomitus within 24 hours of chemotherapy administration should be washed twice in hot water.  (GEE THIS STUFF SOUNDS TOXIC)

 There is also another type of chemotherapy protocol, called the metronomic protocol. This protocol combines three medications: Piroxicam, deramaxx or Rimadyl (NSAIDs), doxycycline (an antibiotic) and cyclophosphamide, (an oral chemotherapy drug). These three medications work on slowing down the blood supply to cancer cells, and also slow down their growth. The principle behind this is called "anti-angiogenesis" (angiogenesis means "creation of blood vessels").


 Immunotherapy
The immune system has the ability to distinguish malignant cells from normal cells. Because malignant cells express non‐self or altered self‐antigens, these cells are recognized by the immune system as different. The concept that the immune system can recognize and eliminate cancer is supported by reports of spontaneous resolution of cancer in patients that have not received treatment and the increased risk of cancer in individuals that are immunosuppressed. However, the immune system is inefficient at eliminating cancer. Malignant cells have mechanisms to evade the immune system. Also, the rapid growth of many cancers overwhelms the immune system’s ability to destroy it. Strategies have been developed to stimulate the immune system to fight off cancer. Immunotherapy is becoming a more defined and effective form of cancer therapy. (HEY THAT'S THE WHOLE POINT OF THE TIPPNER CANCER PROTOCOL THAT LUCY DOES) Varying forms of immunotherapy have proven efficacious in dogs with oral malignant melanoma, osteosarcoma, and hemangiosarcoma.





AND FINALLY HERE IS A LINK TO ANOTHER DOG BLOG WHO IS GOING THROUGH THIS AS WELL.










Lucy never did radiation or chemo, she only did the Tippner Protocol. The Tippner Cancer Protocol combines immunotherapy and molecular cancer therapy using off the shelf readily available inexpensive natural substances. She is past 3 years after diagnosis by biopsy

I buy most of the stuff from Swanson Vitamins. They are cheaper, in capsules for dosage changes, and carry almost everything I give to Lucy except for the Chinese Herbs Stasis Breaker prescription, and the Low Dose Naltrexone prescription. Here is a $5 off coupon link I found

July Fourth 2014 - Lucy is still here!

Lucy never did radiation or chemo, she only did the Tippner Protocol. The Tippner Cancer Protocol combines immunotherapy and molecular cancer therapy using off the shelf readily available inexpensive natural substances. She is past 3 years after diagnosis by biopsy

I buy most of the stuff from Swanson Vitamins. They are cheaper, in capsules for dosage changes, and carry almost everything I give to Lucy except for the Chinese Herbs Stasis Breaker prescription, and the Low Dose Naltrexone prescription. Here is a $5 off coupon link I found

Alternates to Stasis Breaker

Human version of Dog Stasis Breaker  (a tumor buster) is available at Activeherb.com. This version, called Tumoclear is for humans but told safe for dogs.
A human version is Wei Qi Booster (immune booster) is at that company as well Tumorite at this link, you take both... 

UPDATE - I KNOW OF 2 DOGS WHO ARE USING THESE 2. I WAS TOLD THEY JUST ADJUST DOSE BY WEIGHT. ONE DOG HAD POSITIVE RESPONSE IN ABOUT A MONTH. I CALLED ACTIVEHERB AND THEY SAID IS WAS OK FOR DOGS USING ADJUSTED HUMAN DOSAGE. THE BOTTLE DOSAGE IS FOR 120 POUND HUMAN STANDARD. SO JUST ADJUST NUMBER OF PILLS FOR YOUR DOGS WEIGHT. 
I KNOW MANY OF YOU HAVE A HARD TIME GETTING YOUR VET TO ORDER THOSE RX VET HERBS STASIS BREAKER AND WEI QI BOOSTER, SO HERE IS AN ALTERNATE. THEY ARE DIFFERENT SETS OF HERBS BUT THEY DO SAME IDEAS.

UPDATE 7-8/2014 I have now given Lucy the Tumoclear instead of Stasis Breaker because I was running out and thought I would give it a go and also to check for possible issues myself. She has taken it since mid July. There have been no GI issues or any other issues using 5 pills 2x a day. As for any changes to anything with her nose, she seems to be having less tearing, drainage, or sneezes. HOWEVER these issues were very minor and very infrequent so I cannot tell if anything happening for sure, but I do seem to notice a change. She has not really bled at all for a long while. But since January she was a little stuffy on the left like years ago when it started. But it has not progressed since then at all, and after these above pills, while it's hard to tell so far, seems to have a little more air clearance. Will keep updates.  Gary.

Tumorite is no longer available at activeherb.com

It didn't work that well for Lucy anyway. I switched back to Stasis Breaker. You can get that here http://www.wellpetdispensary.com/targeted-support/ or from your holistic vet.

Lucy never did radiation or chemo, she only did the Tippner Protocol. The Tippner Cancer Protocol combines immunotherapy and molecular cancer therapy using off the shelf readily available inexpensive natural substances. She is past 3 years after diagnosis by biopsy

I buy most of the stuff from Swanson Vitamins. They are cheaper, in capsules for dosage changes, and carry almost everything I give to Lucy except for the Chinese Herbs Stasis Breaker prescription, and the Low Dose Naltrexone prescription. Here is a $5 off coupon link I found