If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, it can be a difficult and emotional time. However, it's important to know that veterinary medicine has come a long way in treating cancer in pets. At our clinic, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about your pet's treatment options. We offer a range treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, palliative care, and end of life options. Our goal is to prevent and relieve suffering, and while we may not be able to cure every cancer, we can often slow its growth and prevent it from spreading. With the right treatment plan, your pet can still enjoy a good quality of life and many happy years ahead. Trust our veterinarians to guide you through this difficult time and provide the best care for your pet.

Honeydew Animal Clinic Oncology Services

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Diagnosis

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When it comes to diagnosing cancer in pets, veterinarians have a variety of tools at their disposal. The most common methods include cytology and histopathology, which involve collecting tissue samples for analysis. These tests can be done in-house or sent to a trusted veterinary partner for further evaluation. In addition, imaging equipment such as radiography, ultrasound, MRI and CT scans can help determine the location and stage of the cancer, which is crucial in developing an effective treatment plan.

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Ultrasound

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The use of ultrasound in veterinary oncology is a safe and non-invasive method to examine internal organs and detect masses or lymph node enlargement. It is often performed without sedation and poses no known risks to the patient. Additionally, ultrasound assists in visualizing internal tumours or nodes during tissue sampling for cytology. 

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Radiography

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Radiography is a non-invasive imaging technique that poses no known risks to the patient and can often be performed with little or no sedation. Veterinarians use radiography to evaluate the chest cavity, specifically the lungs, for primary tumours or spread of cancer. Additionally, radiography is helpful in evaluating painful limbs for damage to the bones.

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MRI & CT Scans

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MRI and CT scans are becoming increasingly common in veterinary medicine to diagnose cancer in pets. These imaging techniques allow veterinarians to detect tumors and other abnormalities that may not be visible through physical examination alone. With early detection, treatment options can be explored and the chances of a successful outcome can be greatly improved.

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Treatment Protocols​

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Our veterinary oncology services focus on prolonging your pet's life while maintaining their quality of life. We use a multi-modal approach that includes surgery to remove cancerous lesions or debulk tumours, and chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. Our goal is to improve your pet's mobility and alleviate pain caused by cancerous conditions.

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Chemotherapy is a highly effective treatment for metastatic disease and cancer that is responsive to systemic treatment. Our main goal is to provide an excellent quality of life, control cancer spread, and prolong survival of our patients. At our hospital, we offer both oral and injectable chemotherapy treatments for pets. Our chemotherapy agents are the same as those used in humans, and we closely monitor your pet's response to treatment through follow-up blood work. 

While some pets may experience side effects such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or decreased appetite, these are typically managed well with medication prescribed by your veterinarian. Your pet's well-being is our top priority. 

We understand that cancer treatment can be emotionally and financially challenging, and we strive to make the process as easy as possible for both you and your pet. Please don't hesitate to ask our veterinarians any questions you may have about cancer screening and treatment options.

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Surgical oncology is a crucial aspect of veterinary medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in animals. This specialized field involves the use of surgical procedures to remove tumours and other cancerous growths from various parts of the animal's body, including the oral cavity, soft tissue, orthopaedic surgeries, thoracic, and abdominal areas. Our team of experienced veterinary surgeons is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your beloved pets.