Lymphoma in Pets: How CBD Can Help!

Lymphoma is a cancer type that occurs in the lymphatic cells and quickly spreads through the remainder of the body. Lymphoma is known to be one of the most treatable cancer types because it’s highly responsive to therapies. 

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma occurs in cells known as lymphocytes (T-cells and B-cells) which are part of the immune system. They are a type of white blood cell which circulates throughout bodily fluid known as lymph. The T-cells and B-cells (lymphocytes) are responsible for ‘taking out the trash.’ They fight and destroy bacteria in the body along with any other foreign substances they come in contact with. 

When these cells become cancerous, they are no longer able to hold their duties. This process is called lymphoma and it can develop in T-cells, B-cells, or both. 

Breeds at Risk

According to The Dog Cancer Survival Guide, there are several breeds which are genetically prone to developing lymphoma. Breeds who are most prone include:

• Boxer
• Basset Hound
• Saint Bernard
• Scottish Terrier
• Airedale Terrier
• Golden Retriever
• Labrador Retriever

There are also breeds who are least at risk. Those breeds include:

• Dachshund
• Pekingese
• Pomeranian
• Brittany Spaniel
• Chihuahua
• Toy Poodle
• Female dogs who aren’t spayed have also been found to have a decreased risk of lymphoma. 

Signs of Lymphoma in Pets

The largest sign of lymphoma is actually visual. You can visually see the lymph nodes are swollen significantly. They’re usually discovered at first just by petting the dog. Common areas you may find swollen lymph nodes include below the jaw, behind the knee, and in front of the shoulder. The lymph nodes will generally feel firm when swollen and can be moved back and forth beneath a dog’s skin. They’re usually not painful to the touch.

Canine Lymphoma Test

There’s now a test available to screen for lymphoma. The veterinarian will draw your dog’s blood which will then be tested for biomarkers. Some veterinarians prefer not to do this test, and skip straight to aspirating the tissue (taking a very fine needle to draw out some of the tissue- biopsy). They are both non-invasive and the fine needle aspiration may be more accurate. 

Western Treatment of Lymphoma

The conventional treatment for lymphoma is chemotherapy. In severe cases, surgery and/or radiation may also be recommended. Most dogs with lymphoma go into remission following treatment (that’s where the canine lymphoma test would likely come in handy). The most common protocol is known as CHOP (C-Cyclophosphamide; H- Hydroxydaunorubican; O- Oncovin; P- Prednisone); a multi-drug protocol lasting up to 25-weeks. 

Most dogs go into remission with this protocol, but there are chances of the white blood cell count lowering during the treatment. If this happens, the medication is adjusted accordingly.

Healthy Diet for Lymphoma

Providing a healthy diet is critical with any form of cancer. Actually, it’s important in every dog regardless of if there is cancer or not, but it is particularly important in cases like these. Cancer cells absolutely love sugar. Unfortunately, most kibble diets contain over 50% sugar, which fuels cancer spread. Rodney Habib, one of the creators of the Dog Cancer Series, and Dr. Karen Becker (DVM) created a video outlining just how much sugar is in each bag of dog food (even prescription dog food). It’s a must-watch for any dog lover. 

Aside from commercial dog food, you do have several options. You can order your dog’s food from a responsible pet food company who often develops the food themselves (sometimes it arrives dehydrated and you simply add water). You can cook the diet yourself based on recommendations from your veterinarian or canine nutritionist. Or, you can provide a raw food diet. Every dog is different, and every dog’s body is different, so consulting with a professional regarding which option to choose is critical. Your dog’s current health, history, and environment will all be among the factors considered when developing the best diet for your dog.

CBD For Dogs with Lymphoma

Using CBD for dogs with lymphoma is increasingly popular among pet parents who want to support their dog’s quality of life and overall comfort. Whether as a supplement to traditional lymphoma treatments or for added symptom relief, CBD is a valuable option that may provide holistic relief from many symptoms of canine lymphoma.

How CBD May Help Dogs with Lymphoma Symptoms

Lymphoma treatment in dogs often comes with side effects like nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss. CBD for dogs’ nausea and appetite works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates digestive health and appetite. CBD activates serotonin receptors that impact vomiting and nausea, while CBDA, a raw form of CBD, is even more effective as an antiemetic, helping dogs feel better and encouraging them to eat.

According to Cancer Metastasis Review, “ Despite the lack of preclinical and clinical data, there is a strong agreement that pharmacological targeting of the endocannabinoid system is emerging as one of the most promising new methods for reducing the progression of cancer. In particular, combination therapy utilizing both traditional chemotherapeutics and molecules targeting the endocannabinoid system may be an excellent next generation treatment for cancer.”

CBD for Pain Relief and Inflammation Support in Dogs

Many dogs with lymphoma experience discomfort from gastrointestinal issues or even nerve pain due to cancerous lesions. CBD for pain relief in dogs works by binding to the TRPV1 receptor, regulating pain perception, inflammation, and body temperature. Research on CBD for inflammation shows it has a unique ability to reduce pain and promote healing, supporting dogs with cancer.

CBD also aids immune health. Since inflammation is a significant factor in canine cancer, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce excessive inflammation and encourage a balanced immune system response. By interacting with immune cells, CBD can improve dogs’ immune resilience, giving them more strength to fight off health challenges, including lymphoma.

CBD for Cancer & Tumors in Dogs

Research suggests CBD and THC can help promote apoptosis, or cell death, in cancer cells without harming healthy cells. This may prevent tumors from spreading by “starving” them and inhibiting angiogenesis (the process of new blood vessels forming to feed tumors).

In addition, CBD for tumor prevention in dogs may help by blocking cell migration, which can reduce the risk of metastasis. CBD’s interaction with the GPR18 receptor may be especially useful in preventing cancer cells from moving within the body, which is crucial in managing lymphoma progression.

Supporting Bone Health and Seizure Management

Some forms of lymphoma can weaken bone health in dogs, causing pain and even fractures. CBD for bone support blocks the GPR55 receptor, associated with osteoporosis and bone resorption, which supports bone density and strength in dogs. Additionally, extranodal lymphoma may sometimes cause seizures in dogs, and CBD for seizure management can help by calming overactive neurons, potentially reducing seizure frequency and severity.

CBD and Homeostasis for Dogs

CBD plays a significant role in homeostasis for dogs, ensuring balance across various systems, including the immune system, nervous system, and vital organs. Cannabinoid receptors are located throughout the body, including in the brain, liver, kidneys, and digestive tract, meaning that consistent CBD use may improve overall wellness in dogs with lymphoma. By supporting communication within the ECS, CBD can help alleviate fatigue, protect organ health, and enhance resilience.

Related: CBD for Cancer in Dogs on Youtube

Whole Patient Approach

Dr. Trina Hazzah, DVM, specializing in Complementary and Alternative Medicine has an unconventional approach to handling canine cancer. Instead of focusing primarily on conventional Western therapies like chemo and radiation, she combines both Eastern and Western medicine to provide every possible option. 

The goal of integrative medicine is to better support the immune system, decrease the number of pharmaceutical treatments necessary, increase quality of life, and improve the survival rate of each individual canine cancer patient. 

There is a delicate balance combining both therapies and Dr. Hazzah strives to ensure every patient is provided optimal care. Her goal is to provide the pet parent with every option possible so, when weighing out the options, everything that’s possible can be offered.

She also integrates cannabis medicine into her whole patient approach. Prior to educating patients on cannabis medicine, Dr. Hazzah spent years on research, reading literature, attending conferences, and learning from those in practice. She is now one of the practitioners providing the advice and conducting the lectures for others who want to learn.

CBD Success Story: Potato

Potato, a 14 year old Shih Tzu had Multi-centric Lymphoma and Cushing’s Disease and had one eye.  Her tumors shrunk to half the size by 6 months and she went into remission 12 months after starting her holistic protocol of natural plant and mushroom medicine, and all signs of Cushing Disease were gone at 14 months.  She died of dementia at age 16.5 years old.  Here’s more about her.

Related: Potato’s Holistic Lymphoma Protocol 

The Bottom Line

Dog lovers who decide to treat lymphoma are generally pleased with the outcome. The cancer is well-known for going into remission with a little help and guidance. Following treatment, most dogs are able to live relatively normal lives. We know it’s scary to hear the words, “your dog has cancer,” but calm your mind knowing this is one of the most responsive cancers to treat. 

For dogs with lymphoma, CBD provides multiple health benefits that go beyond symptom relief. By addressing nausea, pain, inflammation, and immune balance, CBD oil for dog lymphoma can improve comfort and help support the body’s natural defenses. Whether used alongside traditional treatments or as a primary wellness approach, CBD for cancer in dogs is a holistic and promising option for pet parents focused on their dog’s comfort and quality of life.

Ultimately, it’s your decision about what you feel is best for your dog. Reviewing the options, weighing out the pros and cons based on what your veterinary oncologist views as the best option, and getting a second opinion are all aspects that can be taken into consideration in regard to the treatment of lymphoma.