Dr. Loudon’s Protocol
For Bladder Cancer in Dogs 

1. NUTRITION

A clean, anti-inflammatory diet is essential.

Diet Principles:

•  Low-carb, high-quality protein: Cancer feeds on glucose.
  

•  Use pasture-raised, lean meats (turkey, duck, rabbit)- gently cooked at 165 degrees for 8-10 minutes

•  Add gently steamed or puréed cruciferous veggies (broccoli, kale)
  

•  Add medicinal mushrooms: turkey tail, shiitake, reishi
  

•  Ensure clean, filtered water at all times (chlorine = bladder irritant)
  

•  Avoid kibble, processed treats and synthetic additives
  
  

Helpful Additions:

• Bone broth (gut and immune healing)
  

• Sardines (omega-3s)
  

• Parsley or dandelion greens (mild diuretic + detox)

•  Golden paste (turmeric + coconut oil + black pepper for absorption)

2. Bladder-Specific Support (Including UTI Care)

These remedies support the urinary tract lining, fight infection, reduce irritation, and encourage healthy bladder function:

Natural Antimicrobial & Soothing Agents:

• D-Mannose

  Binds to E. coli bacteria in the bladder and helps flush them out. Ideal for prevention or early UTI support.
  
  

• Uva Ursi (Bearberry)

  A urinary antiseptic herb used short-term to fight infection. Should be used under holistic veterinary guidance.
  
  

• Marshmallow Root

  Coats and soothes the bladder lining. Rich in mucilage and anti-inflammatory compounds.
  
  

• Corn Silk

  Diuretic and soothing; supports the urinary tract lining and reduces mild inflammation.
  
  

• Cranberry Extract

  Prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. Use a high-quality, unsweetened, veterinary-grade source. D-mannose and cranberry together work synergistically.
  
  

• Parsley Leaf or Dandelion Leaf

  Gentle natural diuretics that help flush the bladder and support kidney detox.
  
  

• Probiotics (urinary-targeted strains)

  Help rebalance the microbiota after antibiotics or infection. Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus or plantarum may benefit the urinary tract.
  
  

• Filtered Water Only

  Avoid chlorinated or fluoridated water, which can irritate the bladder lining. Encourage hydration by adding broth or wet food.

•  

3. Detox & Organ Support

Cancer and medications can place a heavy load on the liver and kidneys.

• Milk Thistle or Liver Detox Blends 

  (cyclical use) 3 weeks on, one week off. Liver tonic from Adored Beast is a great option.
  
  

• Dandelion Root Tea

    (small amounts for kidney/bladder support)

4. Energy Medicine & Emotional Healing

• Reiki or Healing Touch for Animals 

   calming, pain-relieving
  
  

• Acupuncture or red light therapy 

  improves circulation, reduces pain
  
  

• Bach Flower Remedies:
  
  

  • Rescue Remedy – trauma/shock
    
    

  • Sweet Chestnut – emotional release
    
    

  • Walnut – life transition support
    
    

• Essential oils (diffused only) 

• Frankincense, copaiba, lavender
  (never apply directly; keep safe distance and let dog choose)

5. Lifestyle + Environmental Care

• Provide calm, predictable routine
  
  

• Remove all chemical irritants:
  
  

• Switch to non-toxic cleaners, natural lawn care
  
  

• Avoid air fresheners, synthetic scents, or pesticides
  
  

• Use orthopedic beds, pee pads if urinary leakage occurs
  
  

• Gentle daily movement—short sniff walks, sunbathing
  
  

• Foster emotional connection: Touch, song, eye contact, and soft talk can ground them

6. Check-Ins & Monitoring

• Reassess quality of life weekly

• Monitor pain control closely-additional medications can be added for pain
  

• Keep a health journal (appetite, urination, behavior, mood)
  

• Run follow-up bloodwork every 4–8 weeks if on NSAIDs
  

• Celebrate small victories—stable weight, wagging tails, restful days, connection
  
  

• When to consider humane euthanasia:

   

  • Lack of appetite for several days to a week despite coaxing and trying different gently cooked foods. ( sardines, salmon, cod, beef, turkey, green lipped mussels)

  • Inability to urinate

  • Straining to urinate incessantly

  •  Uncontrolled pain ( panting excessively, crying, restlessness, hiding, avoiding human contact)

  • Vomiting regularly due to straining, toxin build up or pain

  • Kidney failure