Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer that affects the blood vessels of dogs, and it's one of the most common types of cancer in this breed.
It's estimated that 1 in 4 dogs will develop hemangiosarcoma in their lifetime, with the majority being golden retrievers and German shepherds.
The cancer can develop in various parts of the body, but it most commonly affects the spleen, liver, and skin.
Symptoms of hemangiosarcoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but common signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty breathing.
Research suggests that a combination of conventional treatment and alternative therapies, such as the use of turkey tail mushroom, may improve the quality of life and survival rate for dogs with hemangiosarcoma.
The turkey tail mushroom has been found to have immunomodulatory and antitumor effects, making it a promising adjunct therapy for dogs with this type of cancer.
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What is Turkey Tail Mushroom for Dogs Hemangiosarcoma?
Turkey Tail Mushroom for Dogs Hemangiosarcoma is a natural remedy that has gained attention for its potential benefits in treating this serious canine cancer.
Research has shown that Turkey Tail Mushroom contains beta-glucans, which stimulate the immune system to fight cancer cells.
The immune system plays a crucial role in fighting hemangiosarcoma, a type of cancer that affects the blood vessels.
Turkey Tail Mushroom has been studied in conjunction with chemotherapy to enhance its effectiveness in treating canine cancers, including hemangiosarcoma.
One study found that dogs treated with Turkey Tail Mushroom and chemotherapy had improved survival rates compared to those receiving chemotherapy alone.
The polysaccharide-K (PSK) component of Turkey Tail Mushroom has been shown to have anti-tumor effects and stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
Turkey Tail Mushroom may also help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and fatigue, making it a valuable adjunct to traditional treatment.
Benefits and Effects
Turkey tail mushroom has been shown to have several benefits for dogs with hemangiosarcoma, including improving GI health by acting as a prebiotic, regulating bacteria in the intestines and stomach. This can lead to a balanced gut microbiome.
The mushroom's immune-modulating properties can also help boost the immune system, making it easier for dogs to fight off disease and infection. In fact, a University of Pennsylvania veterinary school study found that dogs with hemangiosarcoma who were given turkey tail mushroom extract survived about 50% longer than expected.
Turkey tail mushroom has been found to have a protective effect on liver damage from alcohol in experimental animals, which is relevant to dogs whose livers have been impacted by drugs such as steroids and chemotherapy agents. This suggests that the mushroom may have a range of health benefits beyond just its immune-modulating effects.
Here are some key benefits of turkey tail mushroom for dogs with hemangiosarcoma:
- Helps fight cancer
- Improves GI health
- Strengthens immune system
- Reduces blood sugar levels
It's worth noting that more studies are needed to fully understand the benefits and effects of turkey tail mushroom on dogs with hemangiosarcoma. However, the existing research suggests that it may be a valuable addition to a dog's treatment plan.
Properties
Turkey tail mushrooms are packed with compounds that can enhance the immune system, combat infections, and even mitigate the effects of aging.
These medicinal mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which are particularly effective in improving immune system function.
The beta-glucans in turkey tail mushrooms are a natural way to boost the immune system, making them a valuable addition to a dog's diet.
Studies have shown that giving turkey tail mushroom products to dogs can have plenty of health benefits, supporting pet health in various ways.
Turkey tail mushrooms have been used for centuries as a remedy for various ailments, and their potential health benefits have garnered considerable interest.
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Benefits
Turkey tail mushrooms have been found to have numerous benefits for dogs. They can help fight cancer by boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
Several studies have shown that giving turkey tail mushroom extract to dogs with hemangiosarcoma can increase their survival rate by about 50%. This is a significant finding, as hemangiosarcoma is a common and often fatal cancer in dogs.
Turkey tail mushrooms also have prebiotic properties, which can help regulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. This can lead to improved gut health and a stronger immune system.
Here are some of the key benefits of turkey tail mushrooms for dogs:
- Fights cancer by boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation
- Improves gut health by regulating beneficial bacteria
- Strengthens the immune system
- Reduces blood sugar levels
- Helps with digestive health and reduces inflammation in the digestive, urinary, and respiratory tracts
The dosage of turkey tail mushroom extract for dogs depends on their weight. Here is a general guideline:
Remember to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog turkey tail mushroom extract, as they can help determine the best dosage and ensure it is safe for your pet.
Types Overview
There are various types of medicinal mushrooms for dogs, each possessing its unique combination of bioactive compounds and health advantages.
The Reishi mushroom is one example, known for its adaptogenic properties and ability to support immune function.
It's often used to help dogs cope with stress and anxiety, and some pet owners even report improved mood and reduced shedding.
The Chaga mushroom is another type, rich in antioxidants and believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
It's said to support digestive health and boost the immune system in dogs.
The Turkey Tail mushroom is a popular choice, containing beta-glucans that may stimulate the immune system.
Some pet owners claim it helps their dogs recover from illness and injury more quickly.
The Cordyceps mushroom is also worth mentioning, with potential benefits for cardiovascular health and energy levels.
It's often used to support athletic performance in dogs and may even help with weight management.
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Dosage and Preparation
When giving Turkey Tail mushroom to your dog, it's essential to get the dosage right. The recommended dosage varies depending on your dog's weight, with a general guideline of 25-50 mg per kilogram of body weight, given once or twice daily.
For smaller dogs, like those weighing 5-10 pounds, a dosage of 125 to 250 mg is suitable. For larger dogs, like those weighing 45-50 pounds, a dosage of 1125 to 1250 mg is recommended.
Turkey Tail mushroom supplements for dogs come in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. To prepare the supplement, you can simply sprinkle the recommended dosage onto your dog's food or mix it with a small amount of wet food.
If you're using a liquid extract, you can use the dropper to measure out the recommended dosage and add it to your dog's water or food. To make the extract more palatable, you can mix it with a small amount of a tasty liquid, like chicken broth.
Here's a table to help you determine the correct dosage for your dog based on their weight:
Remember to consult with a veterinarian before giving Turkey Tail mushroom to your dog, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Side Effects and Precautions
Turkey Tail mushroom is generally considered safe for dogs, but it can still cause some side effects in some dogs. Diarrhea, vomiting, and changes in appetite are possible side effects that you should watch out for.
If your dog experiences any of these side effects, discontinue the use of Turkey Tail mushroom and consult your veterinarian immediately. This is crucial to ensure your dog's health and safety.
Turkey Tail mushroom can interact with certain medications, including immunosuppressive drugs. If your dog is currently taking any medication, consult with your veterinarian before starting a Turkey Tail mushroom supplement.
It's also essential to note that not all Turkey Tail mushroom supplements are created equal. Some products may contain fillers or other ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Choose a high-quality product specifically designed for dogs to ensure your dog's safety.
A safety study for Turkey Tail mushroom in dogs has yet to be conducted, but laboratory rats have shown no remarkable adverse effects when administered various doses of the mushroom. This suggests that Turkey Tail mushroom is likely safe for dogs, but more research is needed to confirm this.
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Cancer Treatment and Support
Turkey tail mushroom has shown promise in supporting cancer treatment and improving outcomes for dogs with hemangiosarcoma. This aggressive cancer has a high rate of metastasis and a poor prognosis, with a median survival rate of 19 to 86 days.
The PSP extract from turkey tail mushrooms has been shown to increase survival time in dogs with hemangiosarcoma. In a 2012 study, dogs given PSP had a much longer time until metastasis, and survival time increased with the size of the dose.
Survival times with PSP treatment were significantly longer than with no treatment. Here's a comparison of survival times:
- Survival time with no treatment: 86 days
- Survival time with 50mg-kg/day turkey tail: 117 days
- Survival time with 100mg-kg/day turkey tail: 199 days
Turkey tail mushrooms also contain ergosterol, which has anti-tumor and antioxidant properties. A 2012 study found that turkey tail was linked to better survival times for patients with breast, gastric, and colorectal cancers.
Turkey tail can boost conventional therapies for better outcomes, and its immune-boosting benefits have shown promise in human studies. Used along with antibiotics, turkey tail extract can help further mobilize immune system activity, making it a valuable addition to a pet's daily supplement program.
Supplement Buying Guide
Choosing the right Turkey Tail mushroom supplement for your dog can be overwhelming with so many options available. The form of the supplement can make a difference, with capsules, powders, and liquid extracts to consider.
The quality of the ingredients is crucial, so look for a supplement made from high-quality, organic Turkey Tail mushrooms. Avoid supplements with fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients.
The dosage is another important factor, and it will depend on your dog's size, age, and overall health status. Consult with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
The reputation of the brand is also important, so choose a brand known for its high-quality products and commitment to animal health.
Consider the following factors when selecting a Turkey Tail mushroom supplement for your dog:
- Quality of ingredients: Look for organic, whole mushroom supplements.
- Dosage: Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right dosage for your dog.
- Form of the supplement: Choose a form that is easy for your dog to take, such as a powder or liquid extract.
- Brand reputation: Research the brand's reputation and look for customer reviews and recommendations from veterinarians.
Here are some key things to look for in a high-quality Turkey Tail mushroom supplement:
- Whole mushroom extracts
- Hot-water extraction process to release bioactive molecules
- Third-party analysis for potency and purity
- Organic and grain-free ingredients
- Standardized amount of beta-glucans
Two Studies
Two Studies have shown promising results for using Turkey Tail mushroom extract to treat hemangiosarcoma in dogs.
A pilot study published in 2012 gave a small number of dogs PSP and found that dogs with naturally occurring splenic cancer had improved survival times.
A larger, prospective, randomized clinical trial was recently published comparing the benefit of PSP alone or combined with doxorubicin chemotherapy in dogs with naturally occurring hemangiosarcoma.
This study used the highest dosage of PSP (100 mg/kg), which was most successful in the previous pilot study, and found that it significantly increased survival of dogs with hemangiosarcoma.
The study showed that at a very high dose of PSP (100mg/kg/day), average survival in dogs with hemangiosarcoma was 199 days.
The recommended dose of Turkey Tail mushroom extract for dogs is about 2.4g per 50lb of dog, or 6 400mg capsules a day.
Sources
- https://doi.org/10.18849/ve.v6i3.403 (doi.org)
- Turkey Tail Mushrooms for Dogs: A Versatile Fungi for Pet ... (realmushrooms.com)
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22185453 (nih.gov)
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29521529 (nih.gov)
- Shop Dogs Naturally (thenaturaldogstore.com)
- a natural immune modulator (nih.gov)
- Compound Derived Mushroom Lengthens Survival Time in Dogs with Cancer (upenn.edu)
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