Here is an update on prostate tumors in dogs. Fortunately, these tumors are quite rare. Prostatic disease in general is rare in dogs since most are neutered as puppies. However, while neutering is helpful for reducing prostatic enlargement and infections, it does not prevent tumors of this gland.

Common clinical signs include straining to have a bowel movement, constipation, and sometimes blood in the feces or urine. The average age of dogs with prostatic tumors is 10 years. There are several treatment options.

Surgery can be attempted but is difficult because of the anatomy of the canine prostate gland.

Radiation therapy can temporarily relieve signs but is usually not curative due to the high rate of spread to the regional lymph nodes and vertebrae. While chemotherapy has not been shown to reduce tumor size recent studies suggests that mitoxantrone combined with piroxicam has helped in a limited number of dogs.

One protocol suggested by Dr. Kevin Hahn at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists in Houston utilizes a combination of radiation (once every 2 weeks for 3 times)with mitoxantrone (once every 2 weeks for 5 times)combined with daily piroxicam. My protocol also utilizes a special diet for cancer patients (high in protein and omega-3 fish oil, low in carbs,)and various immune-boosting supplements including herbs such as astragalus, antioxidants, and arabinogalactans. I also stop vaccinating any pet with cancer, as this can cause pets to come out of remission and really is not needed in pets with cancer. By combining a sensible diet and supplement regimen, I believe pets with cancer tend to feel better, have fewer side effects, and often live longer. As always treating cancer is a team effort. Work with your referring doctor, cancer specialist, and holistic veterinarian to develop the right protocol for your pet."

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