Treatment Options for Pets With Cancer
Cancer is a frightening diagnosis, not just for humans but also for our furry friends. As a pet owner, feeling overwhelmed and helpless when your beloved pet is diagnosed with cancer is natural. However, it’s essential to remember that there are treatment options available that can help manage cancer and improve your pet’s quality of life.
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, working closely with a qualified veterinarian is essential to determine the best action. Here are some of the most common treatment options for pets with cancer.
Surgery
Surgery is often the first-line treatment for cancer in pets. If the tumor is localized and hasn’t spread to other parts of the body, it may be possible to remove it entirely through surgery. However, not all tumors are operable, and the decision to perform surgery will depend on the type of cancer and the location and size of the tumor.
Many animal hospitals and clinics offer dog surgery in LA for cancer treatment. If surgery is recommended for your pet, choosing a reputable clinic like Shatto Veterinary Center with cancer surgery experience is crucial.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a standard cancer treatment that involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. While chemotherapy is often associated with harsh side effects, pets tolerate it better than humans. Most pets experience minimal side effects, and the benefits of chemotherapy often outweigh the risks.
Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously, and the treatment schedule will depend on the type and stage of cancer. In some cases, pets may need to be hospitalized during chemotherapy treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is another standard treatment option for pets with cancer. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used with surgery and chemotherapy to manage cancer and improve the pet’s quality of life.
Radiation therapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the type and location of the tumor. Pets undergoing radiation therapy may require sedation or general anesthesia, and the treatment schedule will depend on the type and stage of cancer.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a relatively new cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system’s power to fight cancer. It involves using drugs that stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
While still in the early stages of development, immunotherapy has shown promising results in treating certain types of cancer in pets. However, it’s important to note that not all pets are candidates for immunotherapy, and the treatment is still undergoing clinical trials.
Palliative Care
In some cases, cancer treatment aims not to cure the cancer but to manage the symptoms and improve the pet’s quality of life. This is known as palliative care. Palliative care can include pain management, nutritional support, and other supportive therapies to help pets feel more comfortable.
Working closely with your veterinarian to develop a palliative care plan that meets your pet’s needs and provides the best possible quality of life is essential. Click here to learn more.
Animal Internal Medicine
Shatto Veterinary Center offers comprehensive cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Their experienced veterinarians and staff are committed to providing high-quality and compassionate care to your pets.
In addition to cancer treatment, they offer animal internal medicine services to help diagnose and manage various medical conditions in pets. From routine wellness exams to complex diagnostic procedures, we help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Conclusion
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, feeling scared and unsure of what to do next is normal. However, there are treatment options available that can help manage cancer and improve your pet’s quality of life. Many options are available, from surgery to chemotherapy to radiation therapy and immunotherapy, depending on your pet’s unique situation.
Working closely with a qualified veterinarian is vital to determine your pet’s best course of action. They can help guide you through the available treatment options and develop a plan that meets your pet’s needs.
