Chemotherapy

A diagnosis of cancer comes as a shock to pet owners, and often the assumption that not much can be done. The good news is, there are now many treatments that can be used to give your pet a period of remission and a good chance of disease free, high quality of life for a period of time.

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses one or more anti-cancer drugs as part of a treatment plan. Chemotherapy may be given with a curative intent or it may aim to prolong life or to reduce symptoms.

Each patient has an individualised plan created for them by a specialist veterinary oncologist who works with our vets to ensure the most suitable treatment is prescribed.

Blood tests and careful monitoring ensure the pet has minimal side effects and the treatment is safe. Monitoring by the owner at home is also very important in gauging the pets quality of life is protected.  In veterinary chemotherapy we do not treat as aggressively as in humans to reduce the side effects; however, some can still occur and it is important to ensure that these are treated effectively.

The chemotherapy may be administered intravenously, subcutaneously or orally and often there is an interval of several weeks between treatments. Between treatments, patients usually will be able to live a normal active life.

Read Monty’s story to learn more about chemotherapy or call the Amberley clinic on 03 314 8612 to talk to one of our team.