Cynthia Maro, an integrative veterinarian, emphasizes the importance of regular cancer screenings for aging pets, who face a significantly higher risk of developing tumors as they enter their golden years. With her extensive experience in holistic and traditional veterinary medicine, Cynthia Maro advocates for proactive health measures to detect and manage cancer early, ensuring pets enjoy a better quality of life.
Understanding Cancer Risks in Older Pets with Cynthia Maro
As pets age, their risk of developing cancer increases substantially. Cynthia Maro explains that this heightened vulnerability is due to changes in their biology, including mutations which occur in response to chemical, electromagnetic, toxic and even emotional stressors. Decreased numbers of functioning mitochondria lead to cellular degeneration – aging and degenerative disorders all relate to decreased cellular mitochondria and oxygen.
Weakened immune systems, as result of poor nutrition, toxins in the diet, toys and treats can result in accumulated genetic mutations over time. These changes make it easier for tumors to develop and harder for the body to fight off disease.
Cynthia Maro also highlights cancer can occur in pets of any age, but they are more prevalent in older pets; common neoplasias or cancers include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcomas and osteosarcoma in dogs, and lymphoma and squamous cell carcinoma in cats. Recognizing environmental and breed risks is the first step in protecting pets through regular screenings and vigilant care.
The Value of Early Detection
Cynthia Maro emphasizes that early detection is critical in improving outcomes for pets diagnosed with cancer. When cancer is caught in its early stages, treatments are often more effective, less invasive, and less stressful for the animal. Routine screenings can reveal abnormalities before symptoms become apparent, giving veterinarians and pet owners a head start in managing the disease.
Screenings may include physical exams, bloodwork to include monitoring inflammation in the body, imaging, or tissue biopsies, depending on the pet’s age, breed, and health history. Cynthia Maro advises that these screenings should become a routine part of veterinary visits for older pets, especially those over the age of seven.
Why Screening Matters in the Golden Years
Cancer in pets is often silent in its early stages, with few visible signs to alert owners. Cynthia Maro explains that by the time symptoms appear, the cancer may already be advanced, limiting treatment options. This is why routine screenings are vital—they allow veterinarians to identify issues early, improving the likelihood of successful intervention.
In her practice, Cynthia Maro frequently sees older pets whose lives have been extended and enriched because of timely cancer detection. These cases underscore the importance of screenings, particularly for aging pets whose risk factors increase with every passing year.
Integrative Approaches to Cancer Prevention with Cynthia Maro
As an integrative veterinarian, Cynthia Maro combines conventional diagnostics with holistic strategies to prevent and manage cancer. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management all play a role in supporting a pet’s overall health and reducing cancer risk.
Cynthia Maro also highlights the benefits of supplements and natural remedies that can strengthen an older pet’s immune system, potentially mitigating the development of tumors. These integrative approaches are most effective when paired with regular screenings, as early detection provides the opportunity to intervene with a comprehensive treatment plan.
Common Myths About Cancer in Aging Pets
One common misconception that Cynthia Maro addresses is the belief that cancer in older pets is inevitable and untreatable. While it’s true that aging increases risk, proactive care and screenings can make a significant difference in outcomes. Cynthia Maro stresses that many cancers are manageable or even curable when caught early, allowing pets to continue living full, happy lives.
Another myth is that screenings are only necessary for pets showing symptoms. Cynthia Maro explains that regular screenings for healthy-looking older pets are equally important, as early-stage cancers often have no visible signs. Routine check-ups help ensure that potential issues are identified before they become serious.
The Emotional and Financial Benefits of Early Detection
Cynthia Maro often discusses how early detection not only saves lives but also alleviates emotional and financial strain for pet owners. Catching cancer in its early stages can prevent the need for less aggressive treatment, lower costs, and can create more hope and less stress for both the pet and its family.
For pet owners, the peace of mind that comes with regular screenings is invaluable. Cynthia Maro notes that knowing their furry companions are receiving the best care allows owners to focus on creating joyful memories with their pets during their golden years.
Supporting Older Pets Through Holistic Care
Blood work which can help alert pet owners to cancer risk include monitoring inflammatory markers – C-reactive protein in dogs and feline haptoglobin in cats, in addition to measuring and monitoring an enzyme called thymidine kinase-1, which shows when cells are reproducing at higher rate. If these markers stay elevated over time, it alerts Dr. Maro to the possibility of sarcoma or other cancer risk, warranting more testing.
Cynthia Maro encourages pet owners to also monitor chest x-rays and abdominal ultrasounds as their pets age, especially for breeds with high cancer risk.
She also encourages owners to adopt a holistic approach to their pet’s overall health. By addressing the physical, nutritional, emotional, and environmental factors that affect a pet’s well-being, owners can create a supportive environment that promotes longevity.
Cynthia Maro emphasizes that routine screenings should be a cornerstone of this approach. Regular veterinary visits not only monitor for cancer but also help detect other age-related conditions, such as arthritis or kidney disease, ensuring pets receive comprehensive care.
A Lifeline for Aging Pets with Cynthia Maro
Cynthia Maro concludes that cancer screenings in older pets are more than a medical procedure—they are a lifeline. By prioritizing regular screenings, pet owners can give their companions the gift of early detection and the best possible chance at a long, healthy life.
For Cynthia Maro, the goal is to empower pet owners with the knowledge and tools to protect their pets in their golden years. With her dedication to integrative care and early detection, Cynthia Maro continues to educate owners on improving quality of life for their aging pets and empower families to have better awareness about integrative options in veterinary medicine.
Author: Dr. Cynthia Maro – Integrative Veterinarian, Cynthia Maro, DVM, CVA, CAC, VMRT, VNAET
