August 26 is the International Dog Day!
August 26 is International Dog Day, a time to celebrate the joy, loyalty, and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives. But as we honor these incredible animals, it’s also a reminder that they can face serious health challenges, just like us. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, affecting nearly one in four. Today, let’s not only celebrate our dogs but also raise awareness about canine cancer, supporting research and treatments that give our best friends the healthy lives they deserve.
NCI Center for Cancer Research shared on LinkedIn:
“Today is International Dog Day! This year, we’re honoring Jasper, a 12-year-old Shih Tzu who is owned by Sonia A. Garcia, Ph.D., of our Office of Equity and Inclusion. Jasper is currently receiving treatment for lymphoma, but he still bring joy to Sonia’s life each and every day and continues to earnestly seek all the little treats.
What to do if your pet dog receives a devastating diagnosis of cancer? One option is to enroll the pet in an NCI-supported clinical trial testing a new cancer treatment. Pet animals will receive treatment under the care of board-certified veterinary oncologists who share our goal of alleviating the suffering of companion animals with cancer. The results may also inform researchers of new ways to treat human cancer moving forward. ”
“Happy National Dog Day! There are many known health benefits of the human-animal bond, including alleviating stress. Lieutenant Commander Abigail—the canine mascot of the U.S. Public Health Service—visited our staff to provide both education and support.
“Happy National Dog Day from the NCI social media team’s favorite co-workers! Did you know that our Comparative Oncology Program is studying osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, in dogs to improve treatment options for people and pets?
Kimryn Rathmell, Director of the National Cancer Institute:
“Happy NationalDogDay! Having a pet provides valuable companionship—for going through a cancer diagnosis or other stress. My dog (and my grandpuppies) are always glad to see me and provide unconditional support.”
Sachin H. Jain, President and CEO of SCAN Group:
“Yesterday was National Dog Day and I am pleased to share news of our newest family member, Kogi!
Kogi is a 8-month old German Shepherd mix that we rescued from Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles. She is an extraordinarily smart and affectionate animal (though I’m admittedly biased).
It goes without saying—but dogs and other animals are remarkable for their healing potential.
And yet risk aversion has far too many organizations working on ways of keeping these loving creatures out—rather than finding ways to safely incorporate them to improve the healing environment.
Healthcare institutions of all kinds (including my own) should be thinking about how to incorporate pet therapy more for the benefit of patients.
I would be more than happy to lend Kogi to the cause!”
For more information visit oncodaily.com