As a pet owner, you know that your furry family member means the world to you. Unfortunately, dogs can develop cancer just like humans. If your dog is experiencing signs and symptoms of cancer, it’s important to get them evaluated by a veterinary specialist in order to receive the best treatment possible.
At Golden Gate Veterinary Specialists in Northern California Bay Area and Larkspur, we understand how devastating it can be when you find out that your beloved pup has cancer. That’s why our veterinary specialists are committed to providing innovative treatments for canine cancer. We offer the latest treatments and therapies designed to give your pup the best chance at a long and healthy life.
Cancer is an umbrella term used for diseases caused by abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body if left untreated. Dogs of any age or breed can be affected by cancer and there are many different types including skin, blood, bone, lymphoma and brain tumors. Signs and symptoms will depend on the type of tumor present as well as where it’s located in the body but may include:
• Weight loss or gain
• Swelling in certain areas of their body
• Unexplained lameness or limping
• Abnormal bleeding or discharge from any part of their body
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
It’s important to note that some tumors are benign (non-cancerous) while others are malignant (cancerous). Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose if your pup has cancer via physical examination as well as laboratory tests such as blood work, x-rays or an ultrasound. Once a diagnosis is made they will recommend an appropriate treatment plan which may include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy depending on the type and location of tumor present.
At Golden Gate Veterinary Specialists we strive to provide our patients with high quality care utilizing state-of-the-art treatments for canine cancer including immunotherapy which harnesses a pet’s own immune system to fight off disease; gene therapy which uses modified genes that target specific cells; targeted therapies which use drugs designed specifically for certain types of cancers; stem cell therapy which uses stem cells from other parts of the body; laser therapy which uses light energy to target diseased cells; cryosurgery (freezing) for localized tumors; photodynamic therapy (PDT) which utilizes photosensitive drugs along with light energy to treat certain types of cancers; hyperthermia (heat) therapy which works by heating up diseased cells so they die off more quickly than healthy cells; and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) where radio waves are used instead heat up tumors allowing them to die off more quickly than healthy tissue.
We understand how difficult it is when you find out that your beloved pup has been diagnosed with cancer but rest assured our team is here every step of the way providing compassionate care along with innovative treatments designed specifically for their needs giving them every chance at living a long life full health! If you suspect that your pet may have cancer don’t hesitate – contact Golden Gate Veterinary Specialists today! Our team stands ready to provide comprehensive evaluation & treatment plans utilizing advanced technologies tailored specifically for each patient giving them every opportunity at living a long life filled with health & happiness!