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Canine Osteosarcoma
and the Irish Setter
by Jan Ziech

Continued from page two...

Nutrition

Nutrition during and after treatment is important. Cancer results in changes of the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Research has found that a diet restricted in simple sugars and with modest amounts of complex carbohydrates and highly digestible proteins and certain types of fats (namely n=3 fatty acids) can make a positive effect in cancer management. This research lead to the development of Hill's Prescription N/D diet. Although the use of N/D has not been specifically linked to success in treating OSA, it has shown to increase survival times of dogs undergoing chemo, reduced the painful side effects of radiation therapy, increased remission times in certain types of cancer and counteracted cancer induced metabolic effects (cancer cachexia). I switched Cruiser's diet to N/D right after his diagnosis. I was pretty fanatical about his food and treats - making sure he didn't get any of the popular sugar laden doggie sausage treats but instead real meat or hard-boiled eggs. I believe that the diet really made a difference. Actually after a few months on the N/D, Cruiser's coat looked better than it ever had before in his life, even better than when he was shown.

Along with diet, comes the discussion of nutritional supplements. This can be a great area of controversy. The n=3 fatty acids have a negative effect on tumor growth and might be added to a regular diet. The benefit of other vitamins, minerals, garlic, tea and shark cartilage is questionable and most claims of successful treatment with such is anecdotal. Cruiser had received modest amounts of Vitamin C and E most of his life and I continued to give that to him. I also bought into the shark cartilage theories and added that to his diet. I can't honestly say if it helped or not. In any case, check with your veterinarian before supplementing with anything.

Support

The decisions associated with caring for a dog with OSA can be overwhelming at times. A good support crew is invaluable. In addition to friends and family, there are support groups associated with veterinary schools and larger animal clinics. I found an Internet group called Endless Love, which is specifically for owners of pets with cancer: http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Hills/7205/endlesslove/. Members discuss treatment and offer moral support through the ups and downs of their pet's illness.

Research

The Irish Setter Club of America is funding research with the hopes of uncovering a genetic cause for osteosarcoma and has submitted a proposal to the AKC Canine Health Foundation. Between 20 and 25 Irish Setters will be needed, along with blood samples and pedigrees, as the focus will be the genetic or familial pattern of osteosarcoma in the breed. ISCA's last health survey indicated that this disease was the third most frequent cause of death of all the cancers affecting Irish Setters. If you have had a dog or know of a dog, or of a family of dogs, which have been affected by this, please consider participating in this research.

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