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 We just love acronyms and found much learning power in them when teaching
graduate psychology and education courses. And, when such mnemonics are paired
with sensible and helpful insights, it becomes a win-win for us all.
Take
control of the situation by arming yourself with the most
up to date information
you can. Ask for printed materials or information from
the professionals you meet.
Obtain resources to help you understand your dog's
specific disease and treatment options. And, finally
work together with your dog's health care team so that
you understand the reliability and validity of all the
information you've gathered.
Assemble
a team of compassionate, and trusted specialists. This may include: a
conventional veterinarian, a certified veterinary
oncologist, a certified radiation oncologist, and/or a
holistic veterinarian certified in areas such as
homeopathy, nutrition, Chinese herbs, acupuncture,
chiropractic, and massage therapy. Do not be afraid to
get a second opinion before selecting your best course
of action.
Keep
a running record from day one, writing everything down
in a specially designated notebook on: treatments
utilized, medications along with your dog's response, progress on
combating treatment side effects, supplements that are
added, and changes in habits and behaviors. Write down any questions you
may have before each visit is made to your dog's doctor.
Take notes during discussions with your dog's
specialists. And, don't be embarrassed to repeat
information back to ensure that you truly understand
what was said.
Incorporate
good nutrition and a homemade cancer diet as this will
play an integral role in your dog's survival. Organic
ingredients are the best! Use
supplements to boost the immune system or address
adverse treatment effects. Also, introduce changes to
diet or supplements slowly in order to be sure
that its effect is a positive, rather than stressful or
compromising, one.
Neutralize
the hazardous effects of our chemically-laden
environment. Use only filtered water. Do not use any
chemical agents to clean your carpets, floors or
surfaces. Only use vinegar, mild soap, and water. Do not
use any pesticides on the lawn or in the house. Also,
do not expose your dog to environmental toxins or
second-hand smoke.
Gather strength from your family and friends. Bring a partner or friend
with you when you talk to specialists involved in your
dog's care. And, make sure that all discussions that you
have involves everyone who loves your dog, including
family members and children. Guarantee an acceptance of
what is shared so that everyone feels comfortable in
asking questions and expressing their feelings and
opinions.
Anticipate
that there will be many ups and downs during this new
chapter in your life. Plan for emergencies by keeping
an assortment of medications on hand and having various mobility
aids available (e.g.,
Folding Pet Ramp,
Pet Stairs).
Be kind and gentle and compassionate to yourself. Know that
you are doing the best you can do, and that your dog
knows that. Let go of judgment about what you can and
cannot do. Your dog will be okay either way. Simply
forgive yourself, love yourself, and care for yourself.
Insure
the integrity of your dog's physical body and immune
system. That means, absolutely no vaccinations or caustic flea
applications! And, protect your dog's lymph nodes by
using an Easy Walk Harness
which places no strain on a dog's body. Only use a
light-weighted collar for ID purposes, having it hang
slightly from the neck, rather than being tightly
affixed around it.
Take
comfort in knowing that here are no incorrect
decisions. And, do not worry about what others may think
about your treatment choices. Just trust in your judgment, knowing that you
are the only person who fully understands your
dog's emotional, social, and physical being. With all your knowledge in
hand, you need only listen to your heart in order to
make the right decisions.
Embrace
life. It is a precious gift. And, be sure to remember this. Every day is a good day that allows you and your furry love to remain together.
Click here
to print out a handy Taking a Bite out of Cancer sheet!
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