Beyond the Kibble: A Mindful Approach to Canine Cancer (The Chris and Emma Show Ep. 6)
Episode 6
Published: August 28, 2025
Episode Summary
In this incredibly personal episode, we're tackling a topic that hits close to home: canine cancer prevention. Inspired by our own rescue dog, Odin, we're diving into the staggering reality that cancer is the leading cause of death in domestic dogs. We'll explore the critical connection between a dog's environment, their diet, and their overall cancer risk, empowering you to become a proactive partner in your pet’s health.
Show Notes & Links
In this incredibly personal episode, we're tackling a topic that hits close to home: canine cancer prevention. Inspired by our own rescue dog, Odin, we're diving into the staggering reality that cancer is the leading cause of death in domestic dogs. We'll explore the critical connection between a dog's environment, their diet, and their overall cancer risk, empowering you to become a proactive partner in your pet’s health.
We begin by establishing the scale of the problem, revealing that as many as one in three domestic dogs will develop cancer at some point in their lives, with that number tragically skyrocketing to nearly half in senior dogs over ten. We discuss how our shared living spaces expose our pets to many of the same contaminants we face, from pesticides in the yard to chemicals in household cleaners. This makes our dogs a powerful "canary in a coal mine" for the health of our entire family.
Next, we delve into the common types of canine cancer, from widespread lymphoma and mast cell tumors to the aggressive osteosarcoma found in larger breeds. We cover the genetic and age-related risks, including the surprising fact that purebred dogs have a 1.9 times higher risk for cancer compared to mixed breeds. We also navigate the nuanced spay/neuter debate, revealing that while it reduces some cancer risks, it can increase others, making it a decision that requires a conversation with your vet.
Then, we shift to the cornerstone of our discussion: diet as a tool for prevention. We outline a minimally processed, whole-foods diet and highlight specific "superfoods" that can boost a dog's defenses. We discuss the benefits of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, and the importance of sulforaphane. We also cover antioxidant-rich berries, the anti-inflammatory power of turmeric, the immune-boosting properties of medicinal mushrooms like Turkey Tail, and the crucial role of Omega-3s.
Just as vital as what to include is what to avoid. We act as label detectives, arming you with knowledge to steer clear of harmful additives like BHA, BHT, artificial dyes, and propylene glycol. We explain why cancer cells are "greedy for glucose" and why a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can fuel tumor growth.
Finally, we explore key lifestyle and environmental factors. We highlight the direct link between obesity and cancer, revealing that obesity is a "chronic inflammatory condition" that can cut nearly two years off a dog's life expectancy. We also tackle the hidden dangers lurking in our homes and yards, from lawn chemicals like 2,4-D and Glyphosate to toxic compounds in plastics, and the devastating impact of secondhand and thirdhand smoke.
This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a comprehensive, actionable guide to building a healthier, happier future for your best friend.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a fellow dog lover!
Below is a link to the research document which helped to fuel this episode.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BIOULEu8_IiNkrryOMygHUA9Z-thXz9SiXsd-GAOxlE/edit?tab=t.0
We begin by establishing the scale of the problem, revealing that as many as one in three domestic dogs will develop cancer at some point in their lives, with that number tragically skyrocketing to nearly half in senior dogs over ten. We discuss how our shared living spaces expose our pets to many of the same contaminants we face, from pesticides in the yard to chemicals in household cleaners. This makes our dogs a powerful "canary in a coal mine" for the health of our entire family.
Next, we delve into the common types of canine cancer, from widespread lymphoma and mast cell tumors to the aggressive osteosarcoma found in larger breeds. We cover the genetic and age-related risks, including the surprising fact that purebred dogs have a 1.9 times higher risk for cancer compared to mixed breeds. We also navigate the nuanced spay/neuter debate, revealing that while it reduces some cancer risks, it can increase others, making it a decision that requires a conversation with your vet.
Then, we shift to the cornerstone of our discussion: diet as a tool for prevention. We outline a minimally processed, whole-foods diet and highlight specific "superfoods" that can boost a dog's defenses. We discuss the benefits of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, and the importance of sulforaphane. We also cover antioxidant-rich berries, the anti-inflammatory power of turmeric, the immune-boosting properties of medicinal mushrooms like Turkey Tail, and the crucial role of Omega-3s.
Just as vital as what to include is what to avoid. We act as label detectives, arming you with knowledge to steer clear of harmful additives like BHA, BHT, artificial dyes, and propylene glycol. We explain why cancer cells are "greedy for glucose" and why a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can fuel tumor growth.
Finally, we explore key lifestyle and environmental factors. We highlight the direct link between obesity and cancer, revealing that obesity is a "chronic inflammatory condition" that can cut nearly two years off a dog's life expectancy. We also tackle the hidden dangers lurking in our homes and yards, from lawn chemicals like 2,4-D and Glyphosate to toxic compounds in plastics, and the devastating impact of secondhand and thirdhand smoke.
This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a comprehensive, actionable guide to building a healthier, happier future for your best friend.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a fellow dog lover!
Below is a link to the research document which helped to fuel this episode.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BIOULEu8_IiNkrryOMygHUA9Z-thXz9SiXsd-GAOxlE/edit?tab=t.0