Caring for your furry friends: A pet owners guide during cancer treatment

Cancer treatment can be an overwhelming experience, but with the right approach, you can ensure that your pets receive the love and care they deserve. By adhering to these do's and don'ts, you will create a nurturing environment that benefits you and your beloved companions, fostering a sense of comfort and stability during your cancer journey. 

The Do's:  

1. Talk to your care team: Your first visit with your oncologist is a great time to discuss your pets. It is crucial to communicate details about the type of pet(s) you own and the extent of your participation in their care. This information will be important for your team to consider when developing your treatment plan. 
2. Ask for help: Enlist the help of friends, family or professional pet sitters to share the responsibility of daily care. A support system lets you focus on your treatment while ensuring your pet's needs are met. 
3. Maintain routine and stability: Pets thrive on routine, and maintaining a sense of normalcy can comfort them. Stick to regular feeding times, walks and play sessions as much as possible. 
4. Maintain regular vet check-ups: Keep your pet's health a priority by ensuring they are up to date on vaccinations and receive regular check-ups. This preventive approach helps safeguard both your pet and you. 
5. Create a comfortable sleeping space: It is advisable to avoid sharing your bed with pets during cancer treatment. Therefore, you will need to provide them with a comfortable alternative sleeping space. Invest in a cozy pet bed to ensure they have a designated area for rest. 

The Don'ts:

1. Limit exposure to illness: During cancer treatment, your immune system may be compromised. Minimize your pet's exposure to illness by avoiding crowded places, such as dog parks or pet events, where the risk of infection is higher. Additionally, you should take bites or scratches seriously – if you are scratched or bitten, inform your care team right away. 
2. Avoid overexertion: While regular exercise is essential for your pet's health, be mindful of your energy levels. Avoid overly strenuous activities and consider asking for help from a friend or professional dog walker for longer walks. Additionally, you could try mental stimulation games and toys for your pet if you are not feeling well enough to take them on a walk. 
3. Do not let your pets lick your face: While pet kisses may be charming, it is important to note that animal saliva can harbor germs that may lead to illnesses. Refrain from allowing your pets to lick your face, particularly your nose and mouth. 
4. Do not pick up strays: While the impulse to rescue a stray animal from the streets may be strong, it is crucial to weigh the associated risks. Without information on the animal's vaccination status, health condition, or potential illnesses, taking in a stray can cause uncertainties. For immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, adopting a stray is not advisable, as it could lead to serious health complications. 
5. Avoid certain animals: Caution should be exercised even with domesticated pets during cancer treatment due to potential health risks, such as avoiding handling cat litter or cleaning bird cages. Cancer patients should also avoid reptiles, chickens, hamsters/rodents and certain birds. It is common for patients to attribute symptoms like diarrhea to chemotherapy, unaware that it may be caused by bacteria such as salmonella or campylobacter on surfaces touched by these animals. This poses a significant threat to stem cell transplant patients, who are highly immunocompromised. Therefore, avoiding contact with such animals during this delicate phase of treatment is recommended. 

With thoughtful consideration and proper planning, you can ensure your pets receive the care and attention they need. Remember, the well-being of your pets is an integral part of your overall support system.

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