Flaxseed and mass cells

lspatz · #1 10-15-2009, 12:01 PM

Does anyone know if Flaxseed is known to help a dog with mass cells tumors.

Cami · #2 10-16-2009, 10:38 AM

If you Google "Budwig Protocol" you will find info about supplementing with flax seed (oil) in addition to feeding cottage cheese and allowing for sun exposure for the Vitamin D properties.
This isn't mast cell cancer specific however and was originally developed by Johanna Budwig as an alternative therapy for human cancer patients but has been applied to animals as well.

Far better serving for canines to receive their omega 3's in the form of fish oils as flax is a vegetable source verses animal. Canines can't convert things needed from the flax like they can from the animal source.

Fish oil is beneficial for mast cell patients because among other things, it is a natural anti-inflammatory.

lspatz · #3 10-16-2009, 05:51 PM

Thanks so much for your advice. I want to try the omega 3's. However, my dog also has pancreatitis which has been under control for the last year but her levels are always a little elavated. I am going to talk to my vet as well but have you known of many dogs not tolerating it. My dog has trouble with many meds as well as foods so she just eats science hills ID so I am a little afraid to try to put anythign new into her diet but it may be worth the risk?

Cami · #4 10-16-2009, 09:32 PM

I would suspect a dog with fish allergies or sensitivities would have problems with fish oils.
Pancreatitis can certainly be made worse symptoms-wise with diets high in fat so it would be a good idea to speak with your vet regarding this issue.
The food you are feeding is a pretty low quality food however you have to pick the lesser of two evils.
If changing the food will bring on worsening pancreatic issues which includes PAIN I would opt for keeping her comfortable verses trying to get to a "healthier" food.
That being said there are of course healthier choices that can quite possibly keep the pancreatitis under control while being beneficial for her cancer.
If you do feel the need to change do so slowly and with guidance from your vet.

lspatz · #5 10-16-2009, 10:51 PM

Thanks again. Do you know of any other healthier diets healthier choices that possibly could keep the pancreatitis under control while being beneficial for her cancer? I will ask me vet but if you have any ideas I would love to know.