This article explores more about chemotherapy for dogs with cancer.
When is chemotherapy recommended for pets? What are the risks of my pet undergoing chemotherapy? Pet owners often ask these questions when their dog is severely ill. This article explores more about chemotherapy for dogs with cancer.
What is Chemotherapy for Dogs?
Like humans, chemotherapy for dogs with cancer consists of a series of drug treatments. It works to deter or delay the growth of quickly spreading cancer cells by preventing them from dividing and multiplying. Chemo may sometimes help delay the progression throughout your dog’s body, minimize tumor size before surgery, and enhance the dog’s response to other anti-cancer treatments.
When is Chemotherapy Suggested for Pets?
Chemotherapy drugs are administered to pets to stop cancer cells from distributing and reproducing. It is recommended for pets for the following reasons:
- To diminish or eliminate cancer
- To progressively slow down cancer
- To treat the distribution of cancer
- To delay the onset of metastasis
- To ease the problems connected with the tumor
- To minimize the tumor’s size to prepare for surgery
- To increase the feedback on other anti-cancer therapies
What are the Side Effects of Chemo for Dogs?
Chemotherapy targets fast-dividing cells. This approach cannot differentiate between fast-dividing cancer cells and normal tissues. Examples of side effects include alopecia, gastrointestinal aftereffects, bone marrow suppression, and others linked to certain drugs.
Furthermore, most gastric side effects appear 3 to 5 days after administration. Other chemotherapy treatments cause side effects seven days after administration. However, pets experience less severe side effects than humans.
How Can Pets Receive Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy for dogs with cancer is recommended based on cancer type, the degree of cancer spread, and the pet’s general health.
- Sometimes, pet owners can provide it orally to their pets.
- It can also be presented at the hospital as an injection under the pet’s skin or into the vein.
- Chemotherapy treatment drugs are administered into the body cavity such as the pet’s chest or abdomen.
Learning about cancer and chemotherapy can be overwhelming and raises plenty of questions for pet owners. At Alexander Animal Hospital, we will make sure to explain all procedures and post-op care with a clear understanding.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!