[CorkyMax]

[quote=Tucker;84239]

Originally Posted by Corky/Max

QUOTE/TUCKER:
On the other hand a hard boiled egg is hard to digest, lol, I remember years ago that some of us use to eat hard boiled eggs when dieting as it actually used all the calories in it in order to digest it!---So it prob. isn't that good to have your dog putting all that 'taxing' energy into digesting it either.[/COLOR]


Think I've read that a soft scrambled egg is good - I know they don't recommend raw for a dog with cancer - not sure if that applies to eggs as well as meat...

I just got done checking more on the net about the raw egg and, lol, was just going to suggest lightly scrambled eggs or prob. could lightly poach too. There are a lot of differences of opinion on cooked versus raw eggs even w/o the cancer being the issue so it is esp. hard to figure out if the sites against the raw egg have anything to do with the cancer or just don't agree with a raw egg-period! Same goes pretty much with raw meat! If the meat was handled/raised right like the healthiest way like it use to be--there would be not nearly as much worry. About the only way to get 'safe' meat these days is to raise it yourself or know of someone who does it right/organic. I do know that if the dog did not have a compromised immune system--that the raw is not so much to worry about and it definitely would be better nutrition-wise for your dog---cooking takes out at least half of the nutrients--Heat destroys!

I came across this site while searching: Dog Cancer Diet
You prob. have already seen it but in case you haven't--wouldn't want you to miss it as there is a lot of good info there! Sounds like grains are the worst thing to feed a dog with cancer as the cancer grows off of them--You prob. already know that!

[Tucker]

[quote=Corky/Max;84255]

Originally Posted by Tucker

I came across this site while searching: .....Dog Cancer Diet.com
You prob. have already seen it but in case you haven't--wouldn't want you to miss it as there is a lot of good info there! Sounds like grains are the worst thing to feed a dog with cancer as the cancer grows off of them--

Yes, I am totally paranoid about grains - even brought my own grain-free treats to the vet the other day. Thank you for the link - that is a great site for cancer diet info. That is the website where I ordered the K9 immune supplements but I had not seen the link to Whole Dog Journal's list of recommended grain free food. At Costco today they had organic ground beef - also got some canned sardines and canned wild salmon. My husband thinks Tucker is eating better than we are ;-)

[Tucker]

Originally Posted by Mr. Vega

Hello Tucker,

I've been taking lots of tests and then was away for a week doing a conference and then finally a little vacation, so, I wasn't aware of this post before now. I must say, I like your initial attitude about all of this. A Hemangiosarc that originates from the spleen and then spreads to the liver (as you already know) carries a very poor prognosis. I don't doubt that you've researched the crap out of this so I won't bore you with how it develops and spreads. I can tell you that the MST (mean survival time) for this situation is usually around weeks to a month or so. Keep in mind, that's just the mean. So, your guy may just go a little longer. I admire your diligence in finding appropriate diets for this little guy, but, I don't want you to get your hopes up in thinking that a certain diet will take care of this. I'm not sure how much time your spending looking up this stuff (as this topic has taken the usual turn down the diet road), because I believe just being with him and spending time with him will be more worthwhile in the long run. As you already stated, the doxorubicin (chemo) really just adds a month or two (at best) to his life and that extra time isn't always pleasant time for the dog.

If you want, PM me for any extra info or questions that you haven't been able to find the answers for. I can always shoot a line to some of the oncologists to the small animal hospital.

Mr. Vega - I was reviewing the previous posts since there have been so many suggestions and information from posters that it is hard to remember everything! I re-read your post and my response and hope I did not come across as flippant - I do appreciate the information from you especially since you are coming from a slightly different perspective with your medical background. I just have to feel that we did what we could to help his chances - even if the diet additions don't help him physically, they are definitely making mealtime extra fun for him!

[Todd]

Just got another email from Dr. Andrew Jones. His info today was on cancer prevention and treatment in dogs with Hemangiosarcoma also mentioned. This may be helpful so I thought I'd pass it on to this thread and the cancer of the spleen thread;

From: Dr Andrew Jones
Author: Veterinary Secrets Revealed
Website: Pet Health And Pet Care With Dr. Andrew Jones: The Online Vet


Hello Todd,

Re: Top 3 Cancer Prevention Tips

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Hello everyone- Welcome to
Tuesday.

--------------------------------
Homeopathy for Cancer
--------------------------------

There are some specific homeopathic
remedies that are making a difference
in treating the more common types of
cancer, such as Lymphosarcoma, Skin
Tumors, and Hemangiosarcoma.

The detailed report and video is
here:

Pet Health And Pet Care With Dr. Andrew Jones: The Online Vet


-----------------------------
Prevent it HOW?
----------------------------

In reading about bladder cancer
and treatment options, I came across
some very interesting studies.

Many of the researchers talked about
HOW to prevent bladder cancer, ( and
other common cancers) in the first
place.

Some pretty common sense stuff.

1. Avoid ingesting toxins that
produce cancer. In people SMOKING
is the BIG one, while in pets,
food and environmental toxins are
more important.

MOST dog and cat foods have piles
of artificial colors, flavors and
preservatives- MANY Of these have
direct links to cancer. Especially things
like bladder cancer as the kidney filters
many toxins and concentrates them
in the bladder.

2. Diet- For people the simple long term
solution is to eat MORE nutrient
rich fruits and vegetables- ...
The same advice applies to your
dog or cat. IF you are wanting
to avoid cancer in your pet, then
FEED them better quality food.

Less TOXINS.

More NUTRIENTS.

3. Water- the last BIG suggestion
for preventing bladder cancer was
to have people drink MORE water.

More water means more dilute toxins,
and they leave your body quicker.

A real inexpensive way to have your
pet NOT get cancer is to get them
to consume more water.

For cats, use canned food

For dogs, moisten their dry food.


Are there more things to do?

YES

BUT if you ONLY made the top 3
changes, then the incidence of
bladder cancer would drop by
60-70 percent.

And IF you make the same changes with
your dog or cat, the CHANCE of them
getting cancer will drop dramatically-

I would say by at least by 50%

SO let's recap.

1. Feed your pet less toxins.
Don't use chemical sprays in your
house or on your lawn. And don't
smoke..

2. Feed a more nutritious diet
to your pet ( more healing nutrients
rich in antioxidants and fatty acids)

3. Drink MORE water.Feed canned
food and add water to the dry food.

IF your dog or cat is to get cancer,
there are some specific homeopathic
remedies that you can be using now.

To get the details on treating cancer
homeopathically, ( and 20 other common
dog and cat health problems) go here:

Pet Health And Pet Care With Dr. Andrew Jones: The Online Vet

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

P.S. Cancer treatment is muti-modal.
MEANING that not one remedy is going to
treat it- many remedies are required.

Homeopathy is very effective for managing
the side effects, and used as part of the
healing regimen.

I have a detailed report on Alternative Cancer
Remedies, including the top homeopthathics
that I advise. It's at:

Pet Health And Pet Care With Dr. Andrew Jones: The Online Vet


It's Your Pet...Heal Them At Home!

Best Wishes,

Dr Andrew Jones, DVM

Also, here's another article I found about integrative treatments for cancer including magnetic therapy I believe;

http://neuro.vetmed.ufl.edu/neuro/Al...cer_AltMed.htm

[Tucker]

Just an update on the clinical trial status. We spoke again today with the head of the trial in Leesburg, VA. They had a meeting today and the current trial (where the drug is tested on all cancers except hemangiosarcoma) has to be extended. Apparently they feel they need more information on the most accurate dosage. This means the hemangiosarcoma phase will be delayed at least until the end of May which will likely be too late for Tucker. He has been doing well for the last 5 weeks (especially considering they predicted he only had about a month). The man heading the trial said it sounds like we are doing all that can be done (excluding surgery and chemo) and just keep doing it. He said to be encouraged that things were going so well. He eats well (unless he gets a whiff of the yunnan paiyo) and is not in pain. Everything we are currently giving him will be fine to continue if he makes it to the trial (including K9 Immunity which he is familiar with). He also said some dogs have numerous bouts of bleeding but that the blood can be drawn off if it gets too uncomfortable for them; but If they jump off something or exercise a lot that may trigger major bleeding. We are just trying to be hopeful but realize it will be amazing if he does make it until the end of May :-(

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Tucker

Just an update on the clinical trial status. We spoke again today with the head of the trial in Leesburg, VA. They had a meeting today and the current trial (where the drug is tested on all cancers except hemangiosarcoma) has to be extended. Apparently they feel they need more information on the most accurate dosage. This means the hemangiosarcoma phase will be delayed at least until the end of May which will likely be too late for Tucker. He has been doing well for the last 5 weeks (especially considering they predicted he only had about a month). The man heading the trial said it sounds like we are doing all that can be done (excluding surgery and chemo) and just keep doing it. He said to be encouraged that things were going so well. He eats well (unless he gets a whiff of the yunnan paiyo) and is not in pain. Everything we are currently giving him will be fine to continue if he makes it to the trial (including K9 Immunity which he is familiar with). He also said some dogs have numerous bouts of bleeding but that the blood can be drawn off if it gets too uncomfortable for them; but If they jump off something or exercise a lot that may trigger major bleeding. We are just trying to be hopeful but realize it will be amazing if he does make it until the end of May :-(

Glad to hear your dog seems to be doing well!

Are there any other trials going on sooner you can get to? If not, have you considered maybe doing chemo to see if this will keep your dog alive until the trial begins in may? Also check out this link. Earlier I created a thread on magnetic therapy for dogs which is mostly for patients with jpint issues but has also been known to assist with cancer. Here the thread I put up and a link relating canine cancer and magnetic therapy. Maybe this could help the dog hang on uptil the trial. There is also some information on integrative techniques such as the healing touch and acupuncture that could help the dog last a bit longer for the trial;

Magnetic Therapy

Acupuncture:

While acupuncture cannot prevent cancer, it can be very effective in relieving pain caused by cancer and may help balance the energy flow throughout the body, directing the bodies healing system to fight the tumor. Acupuncture is widely accepted as a method to provide analgesia without the side-effects of drugs. It stabilizes the adrenal gland function and may increase endogenous corticosteroid secretion without the side-effects of exogenous steroid medication. Electrical acupuncture will stimulate reflex activity, improving muscle strength and allowing more rapid return of function. Post-operatively, needle acupuncture is useful to reduce muscle spasms without drug intervention. Generally, acupuncture is given over several treatments. If it does not provide benefits within 3-5 treatments, then further therapy may not be warranted. Acupuncture should be performed only by a veterinarian who is trained and certified in its use; your veterinarian should be able to refer you to a qualified veterinary acupuncturist in your area.

Static Magnetic Therapy:

Magnetism has been used for years to treat a number of medical conditions; however, only recently has the use of magnets been rediscovered as relatively simple and safe methods of promoting health with few or no side-effects. Static magnets have a number of physiologic effects which can be useful in the treatment of tumorous growths. "North" pole magnets create alkalinity by decreasing hydrogen ion concentration in the tissues (since the north pole of a magnet is positive, it repels positively charge molecules. In addition, north pole magnets suppress cell mitosis, inhibits viral and bacterial growth, shrinks tumors and decreases both tissue edema and inflammation. Applying north pole magnets over the area of the tumor for 15-20 minutes a day may help in tumor control. Most medical magnets need to be of 1000-3000 gauss. The higher the magnetic strength, the greater the tissue penetration. For superficial tumors, lower gauss magnets are fine.

Healing Touch:

Healing touch is based upon the capacity of human beings to pass "life-force" from themselves into others willing to accept this gift. Although many forms of healing touch are taught in the West, they represent teachings of the same physical process. Many studies have indicated that human contact can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress and improve the state of well-being of the recipient. Human contact has also been shown to increase the immune resistance of others. These principles can be used to help animal patients heal, as well. While it is not easy to demonstrate measurable results in all cases, certainly healing touch does no harm. When done as taught by practitioners of healing touch, it does not cost the "giver" personal energy, since the "giver" acts as a conduit of "universal" life-force which is freely available from a limitless supply of life-force within the cosmos. The "recipient" is free to accept and use this life-force energy. Most Eastern philosophies of healing are based upon the concept that living beings are based upon energy which flows in the body. When the energy level is low or there is a blockage of energy flow, disease develops. Healing touch, by providing life-force energy above or below this blockage, can re-establish the natural flow of energy, allowing healing to take place.

While healing touch has a spiritual aspect, it is not a religious practice nor does it require any particular belief by the giver or recipient. What is required is a recognition by the giver that this process can occur and for the giver to practice the technique to establish pathways for energy flow from them to the recipient. Distant healing touch can also be beneficial to patients. In this form of healing touch, the giver establishes a "psychic" connection with the recipient and mentally visualizes offering the life-force to the patient. Many double blind studies have shown that prayers directed at patients in human intensive care units reduce the complication rates of those patients and their ultimate length of stay in the intensive care unit. Distant healing touch and prayer seem to work through similar mechanisms, in their benefits to patients. On the other hand, belief in any specific religion is unnecessary to practice healing touch. Any person can learn and practice healing touch. In fact, most people perform healing touch without knowledge of doing so. For information about the practice of healing touch see Dr. Weil's web pages and search for "healing touch".

Healing touch may be helpful to maintain normal health in dogs who might develop cancer. It also will assist in slowing progression and maximizing recovery once cancer has developed. Since this can be done without risk of injury, it will do no harm; yet healing touch may increase the chances of full recovery. It also helps develop the human-animal bond. The outcome of healing touch is non-judgmental. It is a gift which is shared between the patient and healer.

Good luck and I really hope everything goes well for you. You and your dog are in my prayers.

[Tucker]

I will check into the magnetic therapy and also try to find out about any additional trials - I had been so focused on the one in Leesburg I didn't think of looking further; it is really coincidence that 2 trials have been fairly closeby to us - right now he isn't in pain so not sure if the acupuncture would be useful in that case; unfortunately they won't do chemo unless they have done surgery first and we don't want to put him thru that plus once he recovered from surgery and started chemo he would have to stop it pretty quickly since it cannot be given within 2 weeks of starting the trial - we are beginning to call him our miracle dog since he still looks healthy with pink gums, is maintaining his weight and happy - he just wants to rest more but if he smells a deer he is off and running down the fence line.

Thank you Todd for your thoughts and prayers and all the detailed information you always provide - will let you know if I find out anything...I am off work on Friday so will have more time then to do some searching.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Tucker

I will check into the magnetic therapy and also try to find out about any additional trials - I had been so focused on the one in Leesburg I didn't think of looking further; it is really coincidence that 2 trials have been fairly closeby to us - right now he isn't in pain so not sure if the acupuncture would be useful in that case; unfortunately they won't do chemo unless they have done surgery first and we don't want to put him thru that plus once he recovered from surgery and started chemo he would have to stop it pretty quickly since it cannot be given within 2 weeks of starting the trial - we are beginning to call him our miracle dog since he still looks healthy with pink gums, is maintaining his weight and happy - he just wants to rest more but if he smells a deer he is off and running down the fence line.

Thank you Todd for your thoughts and prayers and all the detailed information you always provide - will let you know if I find out anything...I am off work on Friday so will have more time then to do some searching.

OK cool deal. Sounds like he's doing great for a cancer patient who was only given 4 weeks to live. He seems pain free and you should be very proud of yourself for that! Keep it up and hopefully the healthy diet and such will help him hang on until the trial.

[Mr. Vega]

Originally Posted by Tucker

Mr. Vega - I was reviewing the previous posts since there have been so many suggestions and information from posters that it is hard to remember everything! I re-read your post and my response and hope I did not come across as flippant - I do appreciate the information from you especially since you are coming from a slightly different perspective with your medical background. I just have to feel that we did what we could to help his chances - even if the diet additions don't help him physically, they are definitely making mealtime extra fun for him!

Not even worth mentioning my friend. My intentions were to try to make this whole process easier on you. I say that b/c I've had more than 1 owner get their hopes up over a possible miracle treatment or alternative therapy only to have it not work and it was just even harder on them in the long run. I was just worried you would become too preoccupied with the dieting stuff to focus on your boy. I should never have assumed that. It makes me happy to hear that Tucker is doing well. Also makes me happy to know you're enjoying the extra little things you're doing for him. Please keep us informed about this little guy.

[Tucker]

Originally Posted by Mr. Vega

Not even worth mentioning my friend. My intentions were to try to make this whole process easier on you. I say that b/c I've had more than 1 owner get their hopes up over a possible miracle treatment or alternative therapy only to have it not work and it was just even harder on them in the long run. I was just worried you would become too preoccupied with the dieting stuff to focus on your boy. I should never have assumed that. It makes me happy to hear that Tucker is doing well. Also makes me happy to know you're enjoying the extra little things you're doing for him. Please keep us informed about this little guy.

Thank you Mr. Vega - yes, we are still enjoying him altho his "normal" has definitely changed - just taking one day at a time and feeling lucky for each additional day that he seems comfortable and happy.

[Tucker]

[QUOTE=Todd;85185]
Static Magnetic Therapy:
Magnetism has been used for years to treat a number of medical conditions; however, only recently has the use of magnets been rediscovered as relatively simple and safe methods of promoting health with few or no side-effects. Static magnets have a number of physiologic effects which can be useful in the treatment of tumorous growths. "North" pole magnets create alkalinity by decreasing hydrogen ion concentration in the tissues (since the north pole of a magnet is positive, it repels positively charge molecules. In addition, north pole magnets suppress cell mitosis, inhibits viral and bacterial growth, shrinks tumors and decreases both tissue edema and inflammation. Applying north pole magnets over the area of the tumor for 15-20 minutes a day may help in tumor control. Most medical magnets need to be of 1000-3000 gauss. The higher the magnetic strength, the greater the tissue penetration. For superficial tumors, lower gauss magnets are fine.

Todd or anyone else - do you know anyone who has used magnetic therapy?
I have read so much pro and con that I am not sure what to think - There are magnetic mats you can buy but will just laying on them reach the target area? (we're talking about $75 and up for the size he would need). Guess it will if he is laying belly down on it - read some studies supposedly disproving any beneficial effect and then other sites say it is becoming more accepted and there are actual benefits:confused

Unfortunately, I have been unable to locate any other current trials even within my state (most of them are university based ones at U of PA, Ohio State, Colorado St. NC State etc) - Essiac tea has come up in several articles on canine cancer so will be giving that a try.

Again, thanks to all for the links and information!

[Todd]

[quote=Tucker;85316]

Originally Posted by Todd

Static Magnetic Therapy:
Magnetism has been used for years to treat a number of medical conditions; however, only recently has the use of magnets been rediscovered as relatively simple and safe methods of promoting health with few or no side-effects. Static magnets have a number of physiologic effects which can be useful in the treatment of tumorous growths. "North" pole magnets create alkalinity by decreasing hydrogen ion concentration in the tissues (since the north pole of a magnet is positive, it repels positively charge molecules. In addition, north pole magnets suppress cell mitosis, inhibits viral and bacterial growth, shrinks tumors and decreases both tissue edema and inflammation. Applying north pole magnets over the area of the tumor for 15-20 minutes a day may help in tumor control. Most medical magnets need to be of 1000-3000 gauss. The higher the magnetic strength, the greater the tissue penetration. For superficial tumors, lower gauss magnets are fine.

Todd or anyone else - do you know anyone who has used magnetic therapy?
I have read so much pro and con that I am not sure what to think - There are magnetic mats you can buy but will just laying on them reach the target area? (we're talking about $75 and up for the size he would need). Guess it will if he is laying belly down on it - read some studies supposedly disproving any beneficial effect and then other sites say it is becoming more accepted and there are actual benefits:confused

Unfortunately, I have been unable to locate any other current trials even within my state (most of them are university based ones at U of PA, Ohio State, Colorado St. NC State etc) - Essiac tea has come up in several articles on canine cancer so will be giving that a try.

Again, thanks to all for the links and information!

The thing with the magnetic therapy is you are going to find mixed feelings/opinions/results because it's still in the experimental stage and not accepted/utilized by the world of medicine yet. It may be in the future once perfected, but not yet. I still think it may be worth a try. I can't cause any harm I don't believe.

I believe I may have already gave you this explanation but here's it again;

Magnetism has been used for years to treat a number of medical conditions; however, only recently has the use of magnets been rediscovered as relatively simple and safe methods of promoting health with few or no side-effects. Static magnets have a number of physiologic effects which can be useful in the treatment of tumorous growths. "North" pole magnets create alkalinity by decreasing hydrogen ion concentration in the tissues (since the north pole of a magnet is positive, it repels positively charge molecules. In addition, north pole magnets suppress cell mitosis, inhibits viral and bacterial growth, shrinks tumors and decreases both tissue edema and inflammation. Applying north pole magnets over the area of the tumor for 15-20 minutes a day may help in tumor control. Most medical magnets need to be of 1000-3000 gauss. The higher the magnetic strength, the greater the tissue penetration. For superficial tumors, lower gauss magnets are fine.

So the magnetic therapy essentially slows the growth/prevent further tumor growth and even can shrink the tumor which is important. As the article suggests you need a north pole magnet. You wouldn't necessarily need a matt but something that is strong enough (1000-3000 gauss) and can be held on the tumor. Laying down on a magnetic matt (must be north pole though) would work. They also sell magnetic beds and other forms. As long as the strength is enough and big enough to cover the area where the tumor is growing it should be fine. Again, I'd do this for about a half hour per day as the article suggests (A bit longer since he may not have that much time left). Here's a link to some items being sold on ebay;

dog magnetic therapy, Pet Supplies, Home Garden. Great deals on eBay!

You may also wish to check other online sources or even craigslist. Also, check with your local animal hospitals/rehabilitation centers. Is there an animal rehabilitation center near you? Some do magnetic therapy I believe.

This magnetic therapy could potentially be something that shrinks/slows the tumor growth and may help him last until the end go may when the trial starts. I think it's worth the investment. Even if it can be also used for future dog you may get. if you don't get another one you can always sell it on ebay or craigslist.

Good luck.

[Mr. Vega]

Tucker,

I was curious about this whole magnet thing so I did some searching in a veterinarian website that I'm a member of. There are only two articles I could find references to that would support it.

---------------
Shafford HL et al. Use of a pulsed electromagnetic field for treatment of post-operative pain in dogs: a pilot study. Veterinary Anaestheisa and Analgesia. 2002;29:43-48.

Hulme J et al. Electromagnetic fields for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002(1):CD003523.

--------------

So, there are some supporters and some confidence out there in this mode of therapy. I won't lie to ya though, most of the discussion by all the vets and veterinary specialists I found on the forum part was very much against this type of therapy and most thought it was a load of bull. This stuff does appear to be safe, but, you must keep in mind that safety parameters have not been established at all so that of course leaves the door open to complications. I should also say that it's well documented that extensive exposure to electromagnetic fields predisposes pets (specifically dogs moreso than cats) to lymphoma.

Having said all that, I have to admit I find myself saying "why not?" The two documents both cite beneficial effects of this therapy mostly in the form of analgesia. If you start it, I'd ask that you please keep a small journal of Tucker's progress and how you feel that it's helped him/how he's responded to it.

[Tucker]

Originally Posted by Mr. Vega

So, there are some supporters and some confidence out there in this mode of therapy. I won't lie to ya though, most of the discussion by all the vets and veterinary specialists I found on the forum part was very much against this type of therapy and most thought it was a load of bull. This stuff does appear to be safe, but, you must keep in mind that safety parameters have not been established at all so that of course leaves the door open to complications. I should also say that it's well documented that extensive exposure to electromagnetic fields predisposes pets (specifically dogs moreso than cats) to lymphoma.

Having said all that, I have to admit I find myself saying "why not?" The two documents both cite beneficial effects of this therapy mostly in the form of analgesia. If you start it, I'd ask that you please keep a small journal of Tucker's progress and how you feel that it's helped him/how he's responded to it.

I am still up in the air on this - I have also read that it is considered safe so basically what do you have to lose (had not seen the lymphoma reference tho, but in this particular situation I feel that is pretty much a moot point); however one particular study I read about at Baylor found no benefit and they specifically mentioned blood flow measurement. Tucker does not seem to be in pain (we have been told hemangiosarcoma does not cause pain which is the only good thing about it) but I am sure he is feeling discomfort from pressure of the spleen tumor - some sites say it helps promote deeper sleep and if it just gives him a better feeling of well being it would be worth it I think. If we do go ahead and order a pad I will keep track of any reactions/changes - unfortunately most places say allow around 10 days for shipping which may be 10 days too much.

Thanks for the links - those will come in handy when I spring this one on my husband He is all for the diet changes and supplements but not too sure about a magnetic pad!


[quote=Todd;85322]

Originally Posted by Tucker

So the magnetic therapy essentially slows the growth/prevent further tumor growth and even can shrink the tumor which is important. As the article suggests you need a north pole magnet. You wouldn't necessarily need a matt but something that is strong enough (1000-3000 gauss) and can be held on the tumor. Laying down on a magnetic matt (must be north pole though) would work. They also sell magnetic beds and other forms. As long as the strength is enough and big enough to cover the area where the tumor is growing it should be fine. Again, I'd do this for about a half hour per day as the article suggests (A bit longer since he may not have that much time left). Here's a link to some items being sold on ebay;

You may also wish to check other online sources or even craigslist. Also, check with your local animal hospitals/rehabilitation centers. Is there an animal rehabilitation center near you? Some do magnetic therapy I believe.

This magnetic therapy could potentially be something that shrinks/slows the tumor growth and may help him last until the end go may when the trial starts. I think it's worth the investment. Even if it can be also used for future dog you may get. if you don't get another one you can always sell it on ebay or craigslist.

Good luck.

The slowing of tumor growth would definitely be ideal - but as I mentioned above, it will be about 10 days to receive it from the places I would order from (by the way, that ebay link had an interesting pad with foam cushioning). There is a rehab center about 45 minutes away from us but the 1 thing they don't offer is magnetic therapy - I think I will give them a call tho, since they do have a lot of services and may recommend something else for his problem...

Yes, we will definitely get another dog in the future so the mat could be used again - maybe I could even use it for my arthritis

Thank you for your continuing help!

[Tucker]

Sorry for the length of this post but I can't post links yet and thought this article tied in to the the previous discussion....as I had mentioned I have been up in the air on magnetic therapy for some reason and the caution about cancer and bleeding disorders pretty much made up my mind.....

Examiner Bio Magnetic Dog Beds, Buyer Beware
October 19, 9:53 PMFort Collins Dogs Examiner

Magnetic therapy is theorized to decrease pain and promote healing; and it has many ardent supporters, this writer included. But some of the most easily accessible products on the market do not have therapeutic magnetic fields and some of these non-therapeutic items can be quite pricey. Knowing what to look for in a product will ensure your companion is getting the best therapy available.

The Theory
In healthy tissues ion exchange across cellular membranes allows toxic chemicals to exit cells and nutritive chemicals to enter. One of the theories behind magnetic therapy is that the injured cells, such as cartilage cells in an arthritic knee, have an impaired ability to exchange ions. When the ion exchange is impaired, the natural course of healing slows or stops which may cause inflammatory chemicals to stagnate in the tissues. Stagnation may trap toxic pain inducing chemicals in the area. It may also prevent healing chemicals from absorbing into the tissues. When a magnetic field is placed over an injured area, it enhances ion exchange thereby helping the body maintain a natural healing state.

A Therapeutic Magnetic Field
In order to positively affect injured tissues the cells must be inside the magnetic field.

A magnet is made of ferromagnetic material that has a positively charged pole and a negatively charged pole. Charged particles in the vicinity of the magnet will align themselves with these poles by attraction of oppositely charged particles and repulsion like charged particles. The size of this field increases with the size and strength of the magnet.

The simple button magnets found in many of dog beds currently on the market use ¾” diameter, ¼” thick, 4,300 gauss magnets. What they fail to indicate is the size, or height, of the magnetic field produced by the magnets. Because the magnets are so small, they may produce a non-therapeutic field for most dogs. A very strong 2” magnetic field produced by this size magnet might work well for a toy breed (as long as 2” of padding is not on top of the button), but for a larger dog something else is required – a magnetic field.

A magnetic field is created when a current flows through conductive wire. The location of the magnetic field is at right angles to the wire, which means if the loop of wire is lying flat inside the mat, the magnetic field will arc upward. Because these loops of wire have an additive effect, the more wires in the loops, the larger the magnetic field. Hopefully, the field created is large enough to surround the dog in a magnetic field. The down side to this model is that it needs to be plugged in to an electrical outlet to create the field. No bed chewers, please.

How to Test the Magnetic Field
If shopping locally, bring a simple refrigerator magnet. Sweep it over the bed until you can feel the pull of the magnetic field. If the field is not as deep as your dog, it’s not the right bed.

If shopping on-line, call and speak to a sales representative. They should be able to tell you the height of the magnetic field. If they are unable to tell you, it’s not the right bed.

One Word of Caution
Magnets can affect electrical implants. Individuals with pacemakers, auditory implants, or other forms of life sustaining electrical medical equipment should avoid the magnetic field produced by the bed. It is also contraindicated for cancer patients or patients with bleeding disorders since it may increase blood supply to an area.

An Interesting Observation
I have tested a number of magnetic beds. With a magnet I could feel the magnetic field. Without it I felt nothing. But it appeared the dogs did – Quin, my black lab, found the bed with the large field very cozy. Mimzy, my small brown rescue dog, didn’t like it at all. She poked her nose at it and walked away never to sit on it again.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Tucker

Sorry for the length of this post but I can't post links yet and thought this article tied in to the the previous discussion....as I had mentioned I have been up in the air on magnetic therapy for some reason and the caution about cancer and bleeding disorders pretty much made up my mind.....

Examiner Bio Magnetic Dog Beds, Buyer Beware
October 19, 9:53 PMFort Collins Dogs Examiner

Magnetic therapy is theorized to decrease pain and promote healing; and it has many ardent supporters, this writer included. But some of the most easily accessible products on the market do not have therapeutic magnetic fields and some of these non-therapeutic items can be quite pricey. Knowing what to look for in a product will ensure your companion is getting the best therapy available.

The Theory
In healthy tissues ion exchange across cellular membranes allows toxic chemicals to exit cells and nutritive chemicals to enter. One of the theories behind magnetic therapy is that the injured cells, such as cartilage cells in an arthritic knee, have an impaired ability to exchange ions. When the ion exchange is impaired, the natural course of healing slows or stops which may cause inflammatory chemicals to stagnate in the tissues. Stagnation may trap toxic pain inducing chemicals in the area. It may also prevent healing chemicals from absorbing into the tissues. When a magnetic field is placed over an injured area, it enhances ion exchange thereby helping the body maintain a natural healing state.

A Therapeutic Magnetic Field
In order to positively affect injured tissues the cells must be inside the magnetic field.

A magnet is made of ferromagnetic material that has a positively charged pole and a negatively charged pole. Charged particles in the vicinity of the magnet will align themselves with these poles by attraction of oppositely charged particles and repulsion like charged particles. The size of this field increases with the size and strength of the magnet.

The simple button magnets found in many of dog beds currently on the market use ¾” diameter, ¼” thick, 4,300 gauss magnets. What they fail to indicate is the size, or height, of the magnetic field produced by the magnets. Because the magnets are so small, they may produce a non-therapeutic field for most dogs. A very strong 2” magnetic field produced by this size magnet might work well for a toy breed (as long as 2” of padding is not on top of the button), but for a larger dog something else is required – a magnetic field.

A magnetic field is created when a current flows through conductive wire. The location of the magnetic field is at right angles to the wire, which means if the loop of wire is lying flat inside the mat, the magnetic field will arc upward. Because these loops of wire have an additive effect, the more wires in the loops, the larger the magnetic field. Hopefully, the field created is large enough to surround the dog in a magnetic field. The down side to this model is that it needs to be plugged in to an electrical outlet to create the field. No bed chewers, please.

How to Test the Magnetic Field
If shopping locally, bring a simple refrigerator magnet. Sweep it over the bed until you can feel the pull of the magnetic field. If the field is not as deep as your dog, it’s not the right bed.

If shopping on-line, call and speak to a sales representative. They should be able to tell you the height of the magnetic field. If they are unable to tell you, it’s not the right bed.

One Word of Caution
Magnets can affect electrical implants. Individuals with pacemakers, auditory implants, or other forms of life sustaining electrical medical equipment should avoid the magnetic field produced by the bed. It is also contraindicated for cancer patients or patients with bleeding disorders since it may increase blood supply to an area.

An Interesting Observation
I have tested a number of magnetic beds. With a magnet I could feel the magnetic field. Without it I felt nothing. But it appeared the dogs did – Quin, my black lab, found the bed with the large field very cozy. Mimzy, my small brown rescue dog, didn’t like it at all. She poked her nose at it and walked away never to sit on it again.

Thanks for the article! Very interesting!

By any chance have you purchased anything to do with magnetic therapy yet? How's the dog doing? Hopefully well!

[Tucker]

Originally Posted by Todd

Thanks for the article! Very interesting!

By any chance have you purchased anything to do with magnetic therapy yet? How's the dog doing? Hopefully well!

No I never ended up purchasing anything for magnetic therapy. I actually found this article on last Monday right before I was set to order a mat - had login problems all week so was unable to post previously. After reading it I just didn't want to take the chance.

So far Tucker is doing exactly the same! We are still supplementing with everything and giving extra protein - last night he had some extra chicken breast and a soft boiled egg. Hard to believe, but it is almost 8 weeks now. I did order the Essiac tea but then had to order a stainless steel pot and some glass containers for storage and should get those soon. The preparation and storage of it is really precise. My only concern now is how to get him to drink it! May have to go the turkey baster in the side of his mouth route but would rather he drink it on his own. Today I started putting a couple treats in a little water in a separate small bowl and will do this a few times every day, maybe using some low sodium broth & gradually eliminating the treats so he thinks this bowl is for good stuff - will see how it goes.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Tucker

No I never ended up purchasing anything for magnetic therapy. I actually found this article on last Monday right before I was set to order a mat - had login problems all week so was unable to post previously. After reading it I just didn't want to take the chance.

So far Tucker is doing exactly the same! We are still supplementing with everything and giving extra protein - last night he had some extra chicken breast and a soft boiled egg. Hard to believe, but it is almost 8 weeks now. I did order the Essiac tea but then had to order a stainless steel pot and some glass containers for storage and should get those soon. The preparation and storage of it is really precise. My only concern now is how to get him to drink it! May have to go the turkey baster in the side of his mouth route but would rather he drink it on his own. Today I started putting a couple treats in a little water in a separate small bowl and will do this a few times every day, maybe using some low sodium broth & gradually eliminating the treats so he thinks this bowl is for good stuff - will see how it goes.

You could also try adding it to ground meat you use. Just pout the tea in the meat and stir it together. This is what I do if I feed ground meat, which I do time to time, with pureed veggies and such.

[Tucker]

Originally Posted by Todd

You could also try adding it to ground meat you use. Just pout the tea in the meat and stir it together. This is what I do if I feed ground meat, which I do time to time, with pureed veggies and such.

Unfortunately it is supposed to be given at least 1 hr. before a meal or 2 hrs. after eating - it isn't supposed to be given with any food unless that is absolutely the only way to get it in them. You can add some stevia (an herbal sweetener) to it and some people add a little broth but the best way is with nothing else except the stevia which I happened to find today at Target. He is supposed to get 2 oz. twice a day and if no diarrhea then try to increase it.

[Todd]

Originally Posted by Tucker

Unfortunately it is supposed to be given at least 1 hr. before a meal or 2 hrs. after eating - it isn't supposed to be given with any food unless that is absolutely the only way to get it in them. You can add some stevia (an herbal sweetener) to it and some people add a little broth but the best way is with nothing else except the stevia which I happened to find today at Target. He is supposed to get 2 oz. twice a day and if no diarrhea then try to increase it.

If all else fails you coud try and give it to him with a syringe like liquid medication is given...