Dog Cancer Answers

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Dog Cancer Answers

If your dog has cancer, this podcast can help. Vetted advice from real veterinarians who answer your questions. Call our listener line to ask your question: 808-868-3200.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Can Surgery Cure Bladder Cancer in Dogs? | Brooke Britton, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

    Barbara from Vermont is seeing a new veterinarian, and they want to perform surgery to remove her dog’s TCC. Is it a viable option for her 13-year-old dog who has been on NSAIDs? Dr. Britton unpacks the complexities of bladder cancer treatment, especially the risks and benefits of surgery, and explains why non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like piroxicam are often used to manage this disease. Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            Dr. Demian Dressler with an overview of Transitional Cell Carcinoma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5prSL7yn82E Is bladder cancer a death sentence for dogs? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhUcJyme52Y Using radiation for dogs with TCC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGoyn-1TBsA Related Links: Our article on bladder cancer, including transitional cell carcinoma: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/bladder-cancer-in-dogs-including-transitional-cell-carcinoma/ Our comprehensive surgery guide for you and your dog: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/your-dog-surgery-guide/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 – Listener's Question from Barbara 02:00 - Overview of Bladder Cancer in Dogs 03:00 - Why Surgery Is Rarely Recommended for Bladder Cancer 04:45 - Managing Bladder Cancer with NSAIDs 05:30 - The Risks of Surgery: Tumor Seeding and Recurrence 07:00 - Field Effect and Microscopic Tumor Cells in a “Snowglobe” 08:00 - Factors to Consider Before Opting for Surgery 09:15 - Conclusion: Weighing the Options 10:00 - Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    18 min

  2. 18 NOV

    Are Vets Just After Your Money? A Cancer Mom Reveals the Surprising Truth | Dr. Lauren Barrow

    Host Molly Jacobson speaks with Dr. Lauren Barrow, a veterinarian who sees cancer in her patients and a mother whose son has a brain tumor. Are vets just after your money? She has some sage insights to offer! Dr. Barrow offers heartfelt and compassionate advice for pet parents trying to make the best decisions for their dogs while dealing with financial limitations. Whether you're struggling to afford treatments or feeling guilt over cancer's impact on your family, this episode offers encouragement and practical tips to help you move forward with grace. Key Takeaways: The importance of giving yourself grace when dealing with a dog’s cancer diagnosis and financial concerns. Understanding the range of cancer treatments and how to discuss costs with your veterinarian. Why it’s crucial to avoid self-blame and how to cope with a dog’s cancer emotionally. How veterinarians approach cancer diagnoses and why they’re not "just after your money." Practical steps for handling the financial reality of cancer treatment for your dog. Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            This veterinarian thinks pet health insurance is well worth it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPY3U2fRRas Why dog cancer treatments are so expensive (from a veterinary oncologist): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6X82_irtOlE How to handle guilt when you can’t afford to treat dog cancer – and how to find funds! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znb5nxqTHrU Related Links: Dr. Barrow’s article about being a team leader in dog cancer care: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/building-your-team/team-leader/ Our article about CareCredit: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stress-and-finances/carecredit-for-dogs/ Dr. Barrow’s article about the costs of cancer treatments for dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stress-and-finances/cost-of-cancer-treatment-for-dogs/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Barrow and her own cancer journey 03:15 – The Emotional Burden of Cancer 06:45 – Understanding Financial Shame 10:30 – Why Vets Aren’t In It for the Money 14:45 – What Goes Through a Vet’s Mind When Giving a Cancer Diagnosis 18:00 – The Financial Spectrum of Cancer Care 22:30 – Asking Your Vet About Costs 25:00 – When to Involve a Veterinary Oncologist 28:15 – Partnering with Your Vet 30:00 – Final Thoughts on Navigating Cancer with Grace 19:30 – Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Lauren Barrow: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/lauren-harper-barrow-dvm-cna/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min

  3. 11 NOV

    How to Spot Cancer in Dogs Before It’s Too Late | Brooke Britton, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

    Let’s dive into early cancer detection strategies for dogs with veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton. We discuss common cancers like anal gland cancer and lymphoma, share practical guidelines for screening, and emphasize the crucial role of pet owners and veterinarians in detecting cancer early. Looking to stay ahead of serious health issues? This is a must-watch. Topics Covered: Listener's suggestion on early cancer detection Screening guidelines based on dog age and breed Common signs of cancer in dogs Why wellness checks are crucial, especially as dogs age The role of regular blood work and physical exams How cancer can develop quickly and the challenges of early detection Importance of a partnership between pet owners and veterinarians Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            Dr. David Vail on early detection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S5qST7euWg New early detection urine test from Oncotect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFxo_ZsedG0 Related Links: Our article on Why Dog Cancer Isn’t Caught Early: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-isnt-caught-early/ Our article on the Symptoms of Dog Cancer In Dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/symptoms-of-cancer-in-dogs/ And overview of Dog Cancer Diagnosis: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-diagnosis/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 – Listener's Question from Janet 02:30 – Dr. Britton's Initial Thoughts 03:30 – Cancer Screening Guidelines by Age and Breed 05:00 – What Happens During a Wellness Check 07:15 – Signs of Cancer to Watch for at Home 08:45 – The Role of Pet Owners in Detecting Cancer Early 10:00 – Screening Frequency Recommendations 12:30 – Using Data to Improve Early Detection 14:30 – Limitations of Guidelines and the Importance of Individual Assessment 16:30 – The Challenges of Detecting Aggressive Cancers 18:45 – The Importance of Communication Between Owners and Veterinarians 19:30 – Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min

  4. 4 NOV

    Is It Time to Put My Dog Down? How to Let Go with Love | Dr. Dani McVety

    Host Molly Jacobson interviews Dr. Dani McVety, founder of Lap of Love, a nationwide veterinary hospice and in-home euthanasia service. In this long conversation, the veterinary hospice expert and the dog mom explore tough and important decisions dog lovers face in terrible, heart-wrenching moments. Dr. McVety offers compassionate guidance on what to expect during the euthanasia process. If you're wondering about the right time to make end-of-life decisions for your beloved dog, this episode offers comfort, understanding, and practical advice. Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            The 26 signs a dog might be entering the dying process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LW0DJHJGZmc Dr. Dressler’s answer to when to euthanize: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dj7ajAPhL0 A dog mom’s perspective on euthanasia versus natural death: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUXM_jMgkdI Related Links: Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice: https://www.lapoflove.com/ A great article on the signs your dog is near the end of life: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/signs-your-dog-is-dying/ Wondering about hospice? Read this: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/hospice-for-dogs/ Wondering about euthanasia? This article will help: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/dog-euthanasia/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - The Birth of Lap of Love 03:30 - The Importance of Hospice for Pets 08:00 - Signs It's Time for Euthanasia 15:00 - The Role of Veterinary Hospice and Euthanasia 25:00 - Managing Emotional and Physical Burdens 35:00 - What Happens During Euthanasia 45:00 - Coping with Grief After Pet Loss 50:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice Get to know Dr. Dani McVety: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/dani-mcvety-dvm/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    59 min

  5. 28 OCT

    Is It Cancer? How to Handle Incidental Tumors in Dogs | Dr. Brooke Britton

    Veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton answers a listener's question about a 10-year-old Golden Retriever diagnosed with an anal gland tumor. The dog recently underwent a CT scan and they saw a small tumor in the stomach lining and an enlarged lymph node. Is it spread? Or a new type of cancer? Dr. Britton discusses possible scenarios, the limitations of different diagnostic techniques, and considerations when deciding on invasive procedures. She also explains incidental findings, the metastatic process, anesthesia risks in older dogs, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and informed decision-making. If you’re dealing with a dog facing multiple potential cancer diagnoses, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you navigate complex choices. Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            Get a second opinion, especially if you’re confused! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FTSRun88ps Your Dog Cancer Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOrT39LPcrU Related Links: Our article on anal sac cancer: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/anal-sac-cancer-in-dogs/ An explainer article about CT scans: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-ct-scan/ A great article explaining how dog cancer is diagnosed: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-diagnosis/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Darlene's Question 02:00 - Initial Thoughts on Multiple Tumors 03:15 - Incidental Findings vs. Metastasis 05:00 - Understanding Lymphatic Involvement 07:00 - The Metastatic Cascade 09:00 - Challenges with Minimally Invasive Diagnostics 11:30 - Weighing Invasive Procedures Against Quality of Life 13:15 - Explaining Incidental Findings in Plain Language 15:00 - Monitoring vs. Immediate Action 16:30 - Anesthesia Risks for Older Dogs 18:00 - Final Advice for Darlene 19:15 - Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    26 min

  6. 21 OCT

    What Does a Vet Tech Do for Dogs with Cancer? | Jenny Fisher

    Jenny Fisher, an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) specializing in oncology, shares tales of hope and inspiration, plus insight into the critical roles that vet techs play in the care and treatment of dogs with cancer. From the day-to-day responsibilities of veterinary technicians to emotional and physical demands, Jenny opens up about what it's really like to work in a veterinary oncology team. She also shares a heartwarming story about Bear, a Labrador who beat the odds thanks to cancer treatment and a dedicated veterinary team. Key Topics Discussed: The difference between veterinary assistants, techs, and specialists Behind the scenes of a vet hospital’s cancer treatments The critical role of veterinary technicians in surgery and patient care The inspiring story of Bear, a dog who survived against the odds How veterinary technicians provide compassionate support to pet owners The physical and emotional challenges vet techs face daily Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            Your Dog Cancer Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOrT39LPcrU Prepare for your first oncologist visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9ONO8g_8C0 Related Links: A great article about the “behind the scenes” people on your dog cancer care team: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/building-your-team/meet-the-heroes-who-fight-dog-cancer-without-a-veterinary-license/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - Meet Jenny Fisher, RVT & Oncology Specialist 03:00 - Understanding Vet Tech Credentials and Specializations 04:45 - The Importance of Title Protection for Veterinary Technicians 06:30 - Who’s Who in the Vet Practice: From Reception to Veterinary Technicians 09:00 - What Vet Techs Can and Can’t Do: Surgical Assistance, Anesthesia, and More 12:00 - Bear’s Story: A Labrador’s Inspiring Journey Through Cancer Treatment 16:45 - The Emotional Impact of Veterinary Oncology on Vet Techs 18:15 - Why Vet Techs Leave the Profession: Pay and Job Protection Issues 20:30 - The Physical and Emotional Demands on Veterinary Technicians 23:00 - Long-Term Health Risks for Vet Techs: Radiation and Hazardous Drugs 25:45 - Managing Client Expectations and Communication in a Busy Hospital 28:00 - How Veterinary Technicians Handle Emotional Labor and Client Judgement 30:00 - Why Vet Hospitals Need More Vet Techs and Assistants 31:45 - The Cost of Veterinary Care: Efficiency and Staffing Ratios 33:00 - Becoming a Veterinary Technician: Training and Certification Explained 36:00 - The Role of Vet Techs in Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy, Radiation, and More 37:45 - Closing Thoughts: Jenny Fisher on the Future of Oncology Vet Techs Get to know Jenny Fisher: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/jenny-cassibry-fisher-rvt-vts-oncology/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    45 min

  7. 14 OCT

    Dog Peeing in the House? Warning Signs of Bladder Cancer and What You Can Do | Lauren Barrow, DVM

    Dr. Lauren Barrow answers a listener question from Gloria in Florida. Gloria's dog was recently diagnosed with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), and she is seeking advice on how to support her dog beyond the prescribed medication, piroxicam. Dr. Barrow shares her insights and offers general information on how to detect bladder cancer early on. Key Topics Covered: Piroxicam for TCC: Dr. Barrow explains the benefits of piroxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with anti-tumor properties, which is commonly prescribed for dogs with TCC. Diet and Supplements: While there is no specific diet or supplement proven beyond a doubt to kill cancer cells, maintaining a healthy diet and weight with a focus on reducing inflammation is crucial. Also important is ensuring your dog has enough nutrients to maintain muscle mass and appetite. Additional Medications: Other potential treatment options, such as Palladia (a targeted therapy drug), are discussed, though piroxicam remains the most studied and commonly used for TCC. Early Warning Signs: Dr. Barrow outlines symptoms that may indicate urinary problems associated with TCC, including accidents, blood in urine, straining to urinate, and frequent small urinations. General Management Tips: Dr. Barrow advises maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a stable weight to help manage a dog’s overall health while fighting cancer. Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            A wonderful everything-Palladia episode: https://youtu.be/GafVltlNWvY A veterinary oncologist discusses the little-known use of radiation in bladder cancer: https://youtu.be/ZGoyn-1TBsA What happens when a new veterinarian recommends surgery on an “inoperable” tumor? https://youtu.be/MCGJc_UvEXE Related Links: Our article on Bladder Cancer: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/bladder-cancer-in-dogs-including-transitional-cell-carcinoma/ Piroxicam: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/drugs/piroxicam-for-dogs/ Palladia: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/drugs/palladia-for-dogs/ Chapters: [00:00] - Introduction [00:30] Gloria’s Question: Dog Diagnosed with TCC [01:15] Piroxicam for Transitional Cell Carcinoma [02:00] Why Seeing an Oncologist Is So Important [02:30] The Role of Piroxicam in Cancer Treatment [03:00] General Diet and Supplements for Dogs with Cancer [03:45] Resources for Dog Cancer Diet and Supplements [04:15] Other Medications for TCC [05:00] Palladia: A Potential Option for TCC [05:30] Managing TCC in Younger Dogs [06:00] Breeds Prone to Transitional Cell Carcinoma [07:00] Watch for Early Signs of Bladder Cancer [08:00] Final Tips for Keeping Your Dog Healthy [08:30] Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Lauren Barrow: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/lauren-harper-barrow-dvm-cna/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    15 min

  8. 7 OCT

    Dog Cancer Causes Hiding In Your Home | Lauren Trepanier, DVM, Ph.D., DACVCP, DACVIM (SAIM)

    Originally recorded in 2022, this episode features Dr. Lauren Trepanier from the University of Wisconsin, revealing her groundbreaking research into the link between environmental pollution and dog cancer. Key Topics: Environmental Pollutants and Cancer in Dogs: Dr. Trepanier’s research links pollutants such as ozone, benzene, trichloroethylene, and herbicides to cancer in dogs. Lymphoma Study: Ongoing studies on Boxers and Golden Retrievers with lymphoma aim to determine how air pollutants, including ozone and VOCs, may trigger cancer. Bladder Cancer Study: The research also investigates dogs with bladder cancer, focusing on household pollutants like arsenic and acrolein, which are linked to bladder cancer in humans. Human-Dog Connection: Dr. Trepanier explains how dogs' cancer risks from pollutants can also provide insight into potential cancer risks for humans. One Health Initiative: The episode discusses how the One Health initiative encourages collaboration between veterinary and human medical professionals to advance research and treatment. Practical Applications: Dr. Trepanier offers suggestions on how dog owners can mitigate cancer risks, including reducing exposure to VOCs and herbicides. Links and Resources: Dog Cancer Survival Guide by Dr. Demian Dressler and Dr. Susan Ettinger Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study AKC Canine Health Foundation One Health Alliance Canine Health Foundation Golden Retriever Lifetime Study Boxer Lymphoma Study Recruitment Flier Transitional Cell Carcinoma Study Recruitment Flier Your Voice Matters! If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:            A fantastic interview with Dr. Janet Patterson-Kane of Morris Animal Foundation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEvFhsC_TyY Related Links: Our article on Pollution and other Environmental cancer causes: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/pollution/ Learn about pharmaceuticals in the drinking water: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/pharmaceuticals-in-drinking-water/ Our article on Bladder Cancer: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/bladder-cancer-in-dogs-including-transitional-cell-carcinoma/ Our article on Lymphoma: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/lymphoma-in-dogs/ Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:45 - Environmental Toxins and Cancer in Dogs 01:30 - Ozone and Air Pollution’s Link to Cancer 03:00 - Fracking and Cancer Risks in Dogs 03:45 - Measuring VOCs in Dogs 05:00 - Chemical Testing in Homes 06:00 - Household Chemicals and Human Studies 07:00 - Bladder Cancer and Household Exposures 09:00 - DNA Damage in Dogs and Owners 10:00 - Bladder Cancer as a Warning Sign 11:30 - How Did My Dog Get Cancer? 12:15 - Practical Steps to Reduce Cancer Risk 13:30 - Chemical Damage After Diagnosis 14:00 - Environmental Concerns from the Dog Cancer Survival Guide 15:15 - Dr. Trepanier’s Background and Expertise 16:30 - Research and Time for Discoveries 17:30 - One Health Initiative Explained 19:00 - Veterinarians as Key Researchers in Cancer 20:30 - Recruiting Dogs for Cancer Studies 22:00 - Collaboration with the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study 24:00 - The Importance of Reaching Diverse Communities 26:00 - How Listeners Can Get Involved 28:00 - Generosity of Dog Lovers 29:30 - Dr. Trepanier’s Personal Connection Dog Cancer Story 30:00 - Outro and Resources Get to know Dr. Lauren Trepanier: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/lauren-trepanier-dvm-phd-dacvcp-dacvim-saim/ For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
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If your dog has cancer, this podcast can help. Vetted advice from real veterinarians who answer your questions. Call our listener line to ask your question: 808-868-3200.

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