Cancer in Pets – Copper Hill Animal Clinic

I often hear from clients, “Well if it is cancer, we aren’t going to do anything.” I understand this sentiment.

Human cancer treatment can be frightening, grueling, and painful. However, treatment for cancer in animals can be very different. Our goal in human medicine is to save the person’s life, no matter what. In pets, our goal can be different if that is the path we choose. For many, the best choice is to bring as much comfort as long as we can.

The best kind of cancer is the kind that can be completely removed, such as a single skin tumor. It is a wonderful thing to cure cancer with a single surgery.

The second situation is a malignant mass that can be removed but may have spread into the bloodstream. Sometimes these cancers can be eradicated with chemotherapy or radiation.

Chemotherapy often looks much different in animals, because we don’t want them to feel sick. They can be as easy as giving a pet a pill a few times a week.

A third situation would be a cancer that can’t be completely removed and may be widespread in the body. Medications for these types of presentations are also available, and may add months or sometimes years to a pet’s life, as well as maintaining quality.

The good news is that we have many drugs that can support our pets. Excellent options exist and as veterinarians, it is our job to support you and your pet through the entire journey. If you have any questions about your pet and cancer please contact us at Copper Hill Animal Clinic, we can help. Our number is 661-296-8848.

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