Cancer is not one disease for which there is a single treatment. Many different types of cancer exist and treatment will depend on the type of cancer your pet has. Some patients may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these therapies. Diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, ultrasound, biopsies, CT or MRI may be recommended to determine whether your pet’s cancer has spread (the “stage” of cancer). These tests are important to help determine what treatment options are best for your pet and determine prognosis. At IVO we strive to provide you and your veterinarian a comprehensive evaluation of your pet’s condition and options for therapy so that the best treatment decision may be made for your pet.

Having a beloved pet diagnosed with cancer can be frightening. But there is hope. Many treatments now exist for pets with cancer and new treatments are continuously being developed. For some forms of cancer, treatment may affect a “cure.” For those cancers where cure is not possible, treatment can enhance a patient’s quality of life and improve survival. Cancer therapies are generally well tolerated in animals with minimal to no side effects. Most pets receiving cancer therapy have good to excellent quality of life. Many can and will remain active. Minimal restrictions are placed on the pet with cancer, including exercise. Pets with cancer have continued to swim, run agility, play ball, or be “couch potatoes.” One patient even won a herding trial during his course of chemotherapy!