Safe to start dog on chemo with newborn at home?

Hello there! Congratulations on your new addition to the family. I understand your concern about starting chemotherapy for your dog while having a newborn at home. It's perfectly natural to want to ensure everyone's well-being.



Chemotherapy in dogs can be quite different from chemotherapy in humans. It often involves lower doses to minimize side effects, so many dogs handle these treatments quite well. However, there can still be some side effects, like reduced activity, decreased appetite, nausea, or diarrhea. It's important to provide your dog with a calm, comfortable space during treatment, away from bustling areas.



When it comes to your newborn's safety, the main consideration is handling your dog's waste. Chemotherapy drugs can be excreted in urine and feces, so using gloves when cleaning up after your pet and washing your hands thoroughly afterwards is a good practice. Keeping your dog's living and play areas clean is also helpful.



Watch for signs such as excessive vomiting, extreme lethargy, or a lack of appetite for more than a day, as these might indicate a more serious reaction to the treatment.



If you have more questions or concerns about how chemotherapy might affect your home life, I would recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to provide more tailored advice for your specific situation.