Activities For Dogs With Leukemia

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Introduction

The sad fact of life is that our loved ones can sometimes get sick, really sick. The sad truth is that even our dogs, who sometimes seem to be indestructible little happiness machines can also get quite ill. And in those tough times, we have to step up, be there for them, and help them heal and recover as much as possible. But sometimes, the illness is hard, incurable, and the only thing we can do is make their lives the best they can be in the situation they are in. Gentle care and quiet activities along with tons of love will show our best buddies how important they are to us.

Know Everything

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
Books
computer
internet
blanket
treats
Activity description

If your vet gave you the bad news that your doggo has leukemia, the first and the best thing you can do for them is to get educated and learn as much as you can about the illness. Having all the information will help you help them. The knowledge will help you build a strong support system for your pup, and come up with the best plan to make their lives easier. Knowing a lot about the illness will also help you notice the signs of leukemia worsening, signs of things getting better, and of course, it will help you care for your pupper in the best possible way. Curl up with your doggo, get a blanket and treats, and do some research.

Step
1
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of leukemia in dogs are sometimes very common. Things like fever, vomiting, lack of appetite and weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, as well as pale gums, are some of the indications that something is wrong. Be aware of changes in your dog so that you can act on them immediately.
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2
Age factors
Typically, leukemia can affect middle aged and older dogs, but sometimes even younger pup’s can get sick. When you notice any of the symptoms, take your dog to the vet, as symptoms and signs can get worse quickly. Remember, your knowledgeable and caring vet will be there to help you in times of need.
Step
3
Watchful eye
Keep an eye on your pup and monitor their behavior. It would be best to do everything together so that you can observe them. Go for long walks letting your dog explore their surroundings, play around the house, and go to a dog park. Keep notes on behaviors you see in your pup and show them to your vet later.

Treat Leukemia

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Any Day
Expensive
Hard
1 hr
Items needed
Medical supplies
health insurance
Ball
Activity description

When you go to the vet and tell them your dog’s symptoms, they will perform a series of tests to try to determine what exactly went wrong. If the final diagnosis is leukemia, this is a sign for you to step up and start treating the illness immediately. Sadly, leukemia can rarely be cured, but it can be treated, and the outcome is usually good for the dog, as long as you take this seriously and make radical changes in your pup’s life. Important note: ask your vet if leukemia is acute or chronic – it will make all the difference!

Step
1
Acute leukemia
Leukemia is typically treated and managed through chemotherapy and use of antibiotics, blood transfusions, and intravenous fluids. If your dog cannot eat, they may require a feeding tube, so ask your veterinary team what they recommend for your dog’s case. Discuss all of the options and become informed.
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2
Chronic leukemia
In the case of chronic leukemia, the treatment may not be necessary at first. What your vet will recommend is for your dog to get oral treatment in the form of drugs that may be chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide, or prednisone. Follow your veterinary team's advice and have your dog take all medicines as prescribed. Stay in close contact with the vet.
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3
Emotional support and a game
Whichever case of leukemia your dog has, one thing is certain - they will need a lot of love and support to power through this. Control your emotions around them, as they can feel your sadness and depression can worsen their symptoms. Engage your dog in a puzzle with treat rewards or grab a ball and play a game of gentle fetch to raise both of your spirits!

Dietary Changes

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0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
1 hr
Items needed
bowl
food
vitamins
water
treats
Activity description

Finally, the best way to combat any ailment is to eat healthy food, lead a healthy lifestyle, and avoid stress at all cost. Luckily, your doggo has you to care for them and love them, and to prepare the most delicious healthy meals. You can spend some time together in the kitchen and your pup can help by bringing you spoons and their bowl, and in the meantime, you can munch on some healthy treats, preferably made from scratch. Gather round your pup and include them in the recipe search, the making of the treat and of course, the taste testing!

Step
1
HFLC
Studies have shown that the high-fat, low-carb diet works best for dogs who suffer from cancer. It is recommended that you reduce the carbohydrates because they can feed the cancer cells faster than other foods. Take your pup to the vet for a checkup and have a nutrition consult at the same time.
Step
2
Make it appetizing
You already know that weight loss is one of the symptoms and results of leukemia, so making tasty looking and food that smells good to your doggo to incentivize them to eat. Anorexia is a dangerous thing, and keeping your pup nourished is a must.
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3
Doggo taste-tester
What better way to ensure that your pup loves their new healthy snacks than to include them in the cooking process? Get your dog an apron and make them a designated taste tester! Let them munch on the ingredients before you combine them together, and see if they like the final product! If not, time for a new batch!

More Fun Ideas...

Light Walks

Avoid any strenuous physical activity and don’t make your dog run or jump if they do not want to. Take light walks around the neighborhood and stop for rests when your doggo needs them.

Nature Calling

Always try to spend as much time as you can in a healthy environment with clean air. Go out in the great outdoors and soak up all the freshness of nature, smelling the flowers, and strolling around on the grass.

Conclusion

Leukemia is a tough illness. It is devastating and can discourage you from fighting, but you have to remember that your dog has been there for you in tough times, and now it is time for you to step up. Be with them at every vet checkup, at each chemotherapy session, cook them tasty food, and don’t forget to give them big hugs and lots of love every day.