The human animal bond is a special relationship shared between a pet and their guardian. Pets are often referred to as and considered members of the family. For this reason, when a pet is diagnosed with cancer, the family will often seek the advice of a veterinarian to learn what treatment options are available vs immediately considering euthanasia. The diagnosis of cancer can leave a family feeling devastated and helpless. The family’s veterinarian may make treatment recommendations and administer the treatment, however, it is becoming more common for them to recommend a consultation with a specialist in the field of veterinary medical or radiation oncology.
Veterinary specialist receive several years of additional training in their discipline following graduation from veterinary school. An oncologist is equipped to discuss the biological behavior of the particular tumor, make treatment recommendations, and provide a prognosis. After discussing all of the options, the oncologist will help the family in designing a treatment plan. For some families this means choosing palliative therapy vs a more aggressive course of treatment. The goal of palliative therapy is not to cure the tumor, but to help improve or maintain the pet’s quality of life. Philip Treuil DVM is currently working with several colleagues to study the impact palliative radiation therapy is having on his patients and how their families perceive the benefits of this type of therapy. Dr. Philip Treuil is hopeful that this research will provide information that will help his patients and their families when faced with the diagnosis of cancer.
