Originally Posted November, 2018
In the process of researching for my book “Sit, Stay, and Make Your Own” (no longer available) I came across some very enlightening articles that opened my eyes to how the pet food industry has contributed to the cause of a huge increase in many diseases in dogs, but especially cancer. You may or may not agree with all of my findings, but there is no doubt that cancer in pets has increased rapidly in the last several years. It sure wouldn’t hurt to look into what some experts say about processed dog food and cancer in dogs.
If you google it you will find a variety of claims that cancer is increasing in the dog population. But, is this a fact? The whole truth is that unfortunately, no one actually knows for sure. The reason is, that cancer is not a reportable disease in pets, and there are no databases of cancer cases covering large enough populations in sufficient detail to make reliable statements about overall cancer rates.
However, I will tell you that most veterinarians will tell you that they have definitely seen an increase in cancer in both dogs and cats at their practice.
THE SCARY CANCER STATISTICS
Regardless of the lack of studies, there have been many papers written by veterinarians that show an increase in cancers in pets. According to one such paper, one out of every five pets is affected by cancer. Studies also show that dogs are:
- Twice as likely to develop leukemia than humans
- For times more likely to suffer from breast cancer
- Eight times mor likely to develop bone cancer
- An incredible thirty-five times more at risk of developing skin cancer
GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS AND CANCER IN DOGS
Genetically Modified Organisms, we already know are bad for people, it’s also bad for dogs. They are often used to accelerate the growth of many crops that find their way into dog food.
AFLATOXIN:
Aflatoxin is so toxic it actually gets recalled, but, not in every state. This toxic chemical is a by-product made by certain types of mold. You won’t find it included in the ingredients listed on the package, but there is a list of recently recalled foods that do include it. Brand names include Pet Pride, Old Yeller, and Kroger Value.
blue 1 and blue 2:
Blue 1 and Blue 2 are artificial colorings used in candy, beverages, and baked goods. Known to cause brain tumors in mice they are found in pet foods. Six Wise has a list of 12 dangerous food additives that are dangerous to both humans and pets.
gluten:
Gluten is an ingredient in wheat that certain people are allergic to. Guess what? Some dogs can also be allergic to gluten in wheat leading to a whole gamut of unexplained symptoms. Although there is no proven link to cancer — that we know of yet — if your dog is having trouble with its diet, gluten may be the reason.
According to an article published in the UK, “The body’s immune system attacks substances in gluten as a threat to the body and destroys them, leaving damage to the small intestine.
This inflammation can compromise the absorption of nutrients from food into the bloodstream, leading to anemia and an increased risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.”
glyphosate
Glyphosate is found in a popular pesticide known as Roundup. Dr. Carol is a holistic veterinarian and warns about the dangers of this toxic ingredient.
She also states: “Another factor involved in the increased cancer incidence according to this veterinarian’s research is diet and pet nutrition or what you place in the food bowel for your dog and/or cat each day.”
fluoride:
Fluoride is the stuff that is supposed to be good for fighting cavities but actually can be harmful to pets.
The Pet Examiner has reported on a study done by the Environmental Working Group on popular dog food. That study found that all brands of dog food tested contained bone meal and animal byproducts. They believe that these bone meal byproducts are the source of fluoride contamination.
Excessive fluoride can actually do the very opposite of its intended use in toothpaste and can lead to weakened bones and teeth and even cancer.
some grains:
Some Grains. I have qualified that to “some” grains. I have written a whole chapter in my book on this subject because there is so much confusion out there about grains in dog food.
As I have always advocated, most fresh grains, such as rice, wheat (unless your pet is allergic to gluten, as mentioned above), and even corn is not harmful to pets. Rather, it’s the processed grains in dog food on the shelves that are harmful to your dog. With that being said, meat should be the number one ingredient in your dog’s food.
conclusion:
It's Good To Be Informed!
I didn’t post this to scare you, instead, it is simply to inform you. Our dogs depend on us and only you can determine what is best for your dog. This information comes from trusted sources. If you are worried, do some research and make an informed decision about what you feed your dog.
The Dangers Of Making Your Own
If you are looking to avoid the entire host of commercial pet food dangers please don’t try making your own unless you know about nutrition and what nutrients dogs need to thrive and what foods can be toxic to dogs.
Through my years of study as well as years of research on canine nutrition, I have learned what foods you should absolutely avoid and what nutrients your Chihuahua needs to be and remain healthy throughout their entire life. I am happy to share with you my knowledge and expertise to help you avoid all the hype and learn what food is best for your individual Chihuahua.
I have recently created four nutritionally balanced homemade recipes that you can trust to be healthy for your Chihuahua. You don’t just get the recipe. Along with the recipe you get a list of each ingredient and how each ingredient benefits your Chihuahua’s body and in what way. But wait … that’s not all! You will get a guide to portions sizes so you will know the exact right size portion to give your Chihuahua each meal.
These recipes are easy to make and make in batches to freeze and refrigerate until needed. All ingredients are easy to find and your Chi will find them delicious! To learn more and get the recipes just click the button.