Natural Aspects to Avoid Cancer Pain

By Dr Cathy Alinovi, DVM.

Where does the notion that cancer always causes pain come from? Sometimes, I do observe signs of discomfort or distress. But quite often, the pain results from traditional treatments. Surgery, for instance, is understandably painful. Bone cancer may also cause some unease.

Yes, pain can definitely occur. But it’s important to note that it’s not a guaranteed symptom.

That said, there are many excellent options to help dogs manage cancer and stay pain-free.

Here are some general ideas:

• Arnica 30C
• Hypericum 30C
• CBD oil (I prefer full-spectrum)
• Chinese herbal remedies – useful for both cancer support and pain relief
• Western botanicals – also great for easing discomfort or supporting cancer care
• Gentle activity. You might be surprised, but staying mobile helps reduce discomfort.
• Anti-inflammatory measures—no, not drugs, but truly nourishing food.

Kibble has no place in a cancer care plan. It’s largely carbs and made from waste products of the human food industry. It promotes inflammation and can worsen pain.

If you believe your dog’s discomfort stems from cancer, start with diet changes, encourage light movement, and explore effective natural pain relief options.

Now here’s something troubling: one conventional drug handed out like candy is gabapentin. Originally sold as Neurontin to treat migraines in people, it doesn’t relieve pain—it numbs awareness. Dogs often seem lethargic or near-death until it’s stopped.

One of my clients works at the company that makes it. No safety studies exist for dogs or cats. It’s not approved for them, but vets prescribe it like it’s totally safe. Many even think it helps all types of pain. In truth, natural remedies often work better—and they don’t suppress the pet’s ability to enjoy their surroundings.

More frustrating, sometimes a vet or oncologist scares a pet parent so much about pain that it creates emotional paralysis. Nobody wants their beloved pet to hurt, so they’re terrified not to give pain meds. I don’t believe vets do this on purpose – it’s more a matter that emergency type situations often see the worst of us and our pets – thus that’s all the conventional veterinarian sees.

So let’s let the body do it’s best to help itself. Let’s get moving. Don’t keep your baby in a sheltered cocoon, instead, touch. Massage. Walk. Stimulating the muscles is a phenomenal and natural way to ease pain.

And one more thing—many NSAIDs are only intended for short use, about three days. When given long-term, they can increase inflammation. They’re meant to be taken like we take aspirin—headache comes, take it; headache gone, don’t. Overuse leads to side effects.

Arnica doesn’t have side effects. Neither does massage.

We all want our dogs to be comfortable. But we also don’t want them zonked out and missing the joy in life. When dealing with a cancer diagnosis, we’re striving for both quality and time. Let’s celebrate every day remaining together. Keep pain away but not to the extent that your dog is no longer enjoying life – that’s the whole reason he/she’s here – for fun!

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