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Q: I would like to use some of the complementary cancer therapies you discussed in The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. However, my veterinarian, who is not holistic, said there is no proof any of your recommendations work and told me not to use them. I'd like to convince him otherwise, as I told him I will not do chemo on my dog. Any suggestion?
A: There are several references I quoted in my book that you can use to back up your position. Here's an idea: Put the science ball back in your doctor's court. Ask him to cite references supporting his contention that your supplements are unsafe. (Hint: he won't be able to do it).
Also be sure to ask for a full disclosure of the risks of chemo.
I am not opposed to using conventional therapies. I integrate conventional and complementary therapies. For pets with cancer, I usually work with several specialists (surgeons, radiologists, oncologists) who each treat the pet with their modalities while I use diet and supplements.
This integrative approach allows us to kill as many cancer cells as possible with the least toxicity and fewest side effects. There are times, of course, when we choose to rely totally on complementary therapies because the patients can't be helped with conventional treatments.
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(Dr. Shawn P. Messonnier, author of the "Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats" (Prima, $24.95) is a veterinarian and pet care advocate. Write him at 2145 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75075, or e-mail naturalvet@juno.com)
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(c) 2003, The Dallas Morning News. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service.
