Activities For Dogs With Bone Cancer

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Introduction

If your dog has been diagnosed with bone cancer, also called osteosarcoma, then you are probably going through a difficult time with your dog. Their body may be changing and what your pup is able to physically do is likely changing as well. You want to keep your dog comfortable and happy so you will definitely need some activities that your pup is capable of despite the bone cancer. These activities are all well suited for your pup and will ensure that their days are still full of fun.

Best Treat Yet

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
20 min
Items needed
Variety of Treats
Activity description
All dogs have a favorite treat and you probably think you know exactly what treat is the one your pup prefers. But do you really? What if the treat you give your dog all the time isn't really their favorite? It's time to find the truth! If your dog has been diagnosed with bone cancer then this is the perfect time to do this activity. Your pup can relax on the couch in a position that is comfortable for them while you serve up the treats - sounds like the perfect game! Do this game inside so weather doesn't affect your pup's treat tasting. You don't need to splurge on treats, a few of each will suffice.
Step
1
Treat ideas
Pick out a few new treats in the pet store that your pup has never tried. Aim to get at least three or more types of treats and get a good variety. Some crunchy, some soft, a few that are chicken based and others that focus on beef is a good way to go. You can also just opt to make the treats at home with a homemade dog treat recipe or just shred up some cooked chicken, cooked ground beef and some baked sweet potatoes as your treat samples for your dog. Anything new will do!
Step
2
Time to test
Place one of each treat on separate plates and bring them over to your dog. Let your dog relax and move as little as possible so they remain comfortable despite their bone cancer. Lay the plates around your dog and see which treat they immediately gravitate to (they will likely eat them all but which do they pick first?). Once all the treats have been eaten, place the treats on separate plates again and repeat the tasting test. Will your dog choose something different to eat first this time or will they go right for the same treat? Keep offing the treat variety plates to your dog until you discover which they like the best based on which they eat first.
Step
3
Serve it up
Now that you know which treat really is your dog's favorite, give it to them often! You want your dog to be happy and well fed so that they enjoy every moment of every day. If your pup seems to be tiring on the same old treat (even though it was their favorite), play the game again with new treats! Who knows, your dog may love chicken chews this week and just want milk bones the next. Silly pups...
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Wagon Walks

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Sunny Day
Cheap
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Leash
Collar
Wagon
Activity description
When bone cancer hits your dog, you may find that their ability to go for walks becomes strained. Bone cancer can make it difficult for your dog to walk but that doesn't mean they don't want to walk. Your pup likely still wants to get outside, smell the fresh air and see all the exciting things going on in the great outdoors. Bringing your dog for wagon walks is the perfect way to do this. Buy a wagon or cart that is strong enough to hold your dog but easy for you to pull as well. Head out on a sunny day (any temperature!) and let your pup get some much needed change of scenery.
Step
1
Wagon set up
Get your dog's wagon set up so that it is comfortable for them to sit in. Some blankets and pillows will make it cozy and enable your dog to sit inside without pain. You can opt to put a small cup of water in the wagon corner, situating it so that it does not fall or spill as you walk. You still want to have a collar and leash on your dog just in case they get enough energy to try to jump out!
Step
2
Route and walk
Plan where you would like to walk with your dog keeping in mind that you will be pulling the cart the whole way. Pick a flat road, sidewalk or paved trail to make it a little easier on you and for a smoother ride for your dog. Get your dog situated in the wagon and head out on your walk! Your pup is likely going to be very excited the second you step out the door!
Step
3
Let them sniff
As you walk, pull the wagon close to trees, bushes and fire hydrants so that your dog can get in a good sniff. You can opt to take your dog out of the wagon and let them "mark their territory" as well. Make sure your pup is comfy as you walk and try to avoid any big bumps so that they don't bounce around in the wagon. Make wagon walks a part of your daily routine as it is sure to make for one happy pup.
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Treat Puzzles

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
Treat Puzzles
Treat Dispensing Toys
Activity description
When your dog is having a hard time moving around due to bone cancer restricting their movement, that doesn't mean that exercise is completely out of the picture. Now, instead of exercising your dog's body, try exercising their mind! Treat dispensing toys and puzzles are the perfect way to entertain your dog, give them a little challenge and also reward them with some yummy treats! Pick out a few treat toys within your budget that you think your dog will be able to manage based on their range of mobility and the overall difficulty of the puzzle. This is a great game to play inside so weather will not affect your dog's chance to have a good time!
Step
1
Treat puzzle
There are many treat puzzles on the market that involve putting a treat inside the puzzle and your dog using their nose or paws to unlock the puzzle. There are a variety of levels to choose from so you can start your dog with an easy version and work up to the harder puzzles that really lock those treats inside! Show your dog how to use the puzzle the first time you give it to them but then, after that, they are on their own!
Step
2
Self feeder
Set your dog up with a self feeder which is a simple toy that will literally dish out the dog food whenever your dog asks. Forget any diet plans your dog may have been on or limitations on dog food - if your dog has bone cancer, let them eat all the food they want! When your dog pushes a simple lever, dog food will pour out and fill their bowl. You'll never have to worry about remembering to feed the dog again - your dog can feed themselves!
Step
3
Kong
A simple Kong toy is ideal for dogs with limited mobility. Stuff a Kong with a few dry dog treats and let your pup toss it around to get the treats out. Put some peanut butter inside and let your dog lay around and lick it out. Melt some cheese inside (Kongs are microwavable!) and give your dog a gooey treat. Kongs are going to be your pup's new favorite toy for sure!
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More Fun Ideas...

Bubbles

As your dog relaxes on their dog bed, blow a few dog-safe bubbles their way. Not only are bubbles fun and different for your dog to watch but they will likely snap and them, trying to catch or eat the foreign objects coming at them! A fun game that your dog can play without having to move around too much.

Cuddle Session

If your dog's activity is limited due to bone cancer, make sure you spend a good amount of time by their side, comforting and cuddling them. Your dog can't chase you to be close to their favorite person so you need to go to them. Cuddle often and for long periods of time.

Conclusion

Having a dog with bone cancer can be hard on everyone in the family including your dog. The best thing you can do for your pup is to keep them happy and comfortable. All of these activities will be fun for your dog and don't require your pup to move around a lot, ensuring that they aren't in too much pain. Play these games with your dog every day, multiple times, any chance you get. Your dog is depending on you now more than ever.