The Dog Cancer Survival Guide (Maui Media LLC, $34.95)
by Demian Dressler, DVM, with Susan Ettinger, DVM, diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Medicine (Oncology), provides a full-spectrum approach to dog cancer care. Now in its second edition, the book covers conventional and nonconventional treatments, the 12 most common dog cancers, ways to analyze and develop a treatment plan with your veterinarian or oncologist, and “True Tails” from readers of the book’s first edition.

Modern Dog

Modern Dog Review

The Dog Cancer Survival Guide
By Dr. Demian Dressler, with Dr. Susan Ettinger
(Maui Media; 2011)

Caring for a dog with cancer can be overwhelming. Is surgery the best option? What about chemotherapy? Or alternative care? At this troubling time, having The Dog Cancer Survival Guide by your side is like having both a knowledgeable and a caring friend beside you.

Written in plain English for the layperson, this comprehensive book provides expert advice on the entire spectrum of cancer in dogs. It offers the latest research on everything from possible causes such as carcinogens in the air and soil, to the role of free radicals and antioxidants. Importantly, for the health of your dog and for your own peace of mind, The Dog Cancer Survival Guide gives you a down-to-earth appraisal of treatments that have been proven to work. This includes a realistic evaluation of conventional methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to alternative methods such as plant-based nutraceuticals.

It includes a thorough discussion of the major cancers found in dogs as well as the main chemotherapy drugs, so you can better understand what you and your beloved pet are facing.

Significantly, The Dog Cancer Survival Guide shows you how to care for yourself so you can face tough decisions with a clear mind and a steady heart. This valuable and compassionate guide is a must-have for anyone caring for a dog with cancer.

—LJ

Dr. Marty Goldstein, author of many books and Martha Stewart’s veterinarian, invited Dr. Demian Dressler and Dr. Susan Ettinger, co-authors of The Dog Cancer Survival Guide, to be guests on his show “Ask Martha’s Vet.” The show aired on September 12, 2011. Have a listen!

About the Show

Ask Martha’s very own vet, Dr. Marty Goldstein, your puzzling pet questions. At his South Salem, New York, practice, he combines conventional and holistic medicine for optimal pet wellness. While Dr. Marty specializes in critically ill dogs and cats whose human guardians feel they’ve exhausted conventional treatments, he also focuses on pet wellness rather than just treating pet illness. Listen to “Ask Martha’s Vet” live every Monday from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Library Journal Review

Dressler, Demian, DVM, with Susan Ettinger, DVM. The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum Treatments To Optimize Your Dog’s Life Quality and Longevity. 2d ed. Maui Media. 2011. 500p. illus. index. ISBN 9780975263150. pap. $34.95. SCI/PETS

With this book, canine cancer—the number one killer of dogs—loses some of its sting. The message that the dreaded diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence will reassure many readers. Dressler, a general practice veterinarian, and Ettinger, a veterinary oncologist, advocate the “full spectrum” approach to treatment, in which conventional tools (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation) and alternative remedies (supplements, botanical nutraceuticals, mind-body medicine) are considered. Their counsel, in short: “Try everything.” The book’s divided structure is somewhat unusual (but nonetheless effective), as Dressler uses the first two-thirds to give a comprehensive overview, while in the last third, Ettinger details 12 common cancers and their conventional treatments. Clever use of sidebars (part of the book’s “Dummies”-style packaging) allows the authors to comment on each other’s ideas, so the reader gets a practical demonstration of the value of second opinions. Anecdotes from appreciative readers of the first (ebook) edition have been sprinkled throughout the text, providing further advice and support.

Verdict Faced with a bewildering set of circumstances, owners of dogs with cancer will welcome this guide, which will help them calm down, think clearly, consider the options, and, ultimately, make more confident decisions.—Robert Eagan, Windsor P.L., Ont.

Therese Kopiwoda

The Dog Cancer Survival Guide is like a crash course in canine cancer for the layperson. It takes a bit of the mystery out of the dreaded disease by teaching some of the what, why, and how regarding cancer and cancer treatment. After reading it, you will be better equipped to help your best friend live life to the fullest, regardless of the prognosis.

Pennie Clark Ianniciello

The Dog Cancer Survival Guide is indispensable reading for any dog owner dealing with cancer… this book guides, supports and educates you!

As a holistic dog care author, I knew exactly which experts to consult when my sweet Maltese Jiggy developed a large liver tumor. But even with advice from a top cancer specialist and help from a half dozen veterinary friends, I still had numerous questions. Exactly how should I adjust Jiggy’s diet? What supplements should I add? What else could I do to help him? I found the answers I sought and more in Dr. Dressler’s book. I was particularly impressed by the thoroughness of the information. The book is easy to read, but wonderfully complete. If your dog has cancer, I urge you to get two things: a second opinion … and this book.

Dr. Ruth MacPete

The Dog Cancer Survival Guide is a great resource for pet parents whose dogs have been diagnosed with cancer. This easy-to-read book provides important information about canine cancers and discusses both conventional and holistic treatment options. Besides being informative, the book helps guide people as they navigate through a difficult and emotional path.”