Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs and cats in the United States
1 in 4 dogs is diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime.
50% of dogs over the age of ten die of cancer
Cancer is often treatable or curable
Many of the same treatments that are available for human cancer patients are now available for pets. These treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery
Warning Signs of Cancer in Pets
Abnormal lumps or bumps that persist or continue to grow
Sores that do not heal
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Bleeding or discharge from body opening
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Exercise Intolerance
Persistent lameness
Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating
How we can help once a diagnosis of cancer is made in your pet
Our goal is to achieve the continued quality of life for your pet, not just quantity.
Provide options on how to care for your pet
Surgery to remove tumors when possible
Chemotherapy
Provide a referral to a veterinary oncologist for treatment and/or radiation therapy
Facts about chemotherapy in animals
Chemotherapy is the treatment of cancer using specific chemical agents or drugs that are selectively destructive to malignant cells and tissues
Only 25% of animals treated with chemotherapy have side effects with <5% experiencing severe or life-threatening complications
Most patients enjoy a good quality of life while on chemotherapy
General side effects of chemotherapy include bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal problems (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), and hair loss in certain breeds (Poodles and Bichons)
