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ChemotherapyChemotherapy is a combination of drugs used to fight cancer. Often it is used as a second course of treatment after a surgical procedure is performed to remove the cancer. There are several different drugs to treat cancer. The combination of drugs that may be used on your pet varies on the type of cancer your pet has, the age of your pet, and the overall health of your pet. Once your pet begins their treatment, the therapy can often change, drugs may be added or removed from the treatment, this varies on the side effects your pet may experience. We are looking to treat your pet with the fewest side effects possible but with the best outcome. Chemotherapy treatment differs from pet to pet. In the evaluation it will be determined the length of treatment your pet may require. Diagnostic testing as well as blood work will keep us advised as to the progress of the cancer before, during, and after treatment.
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Side effects with Chemotherapy
Every treatment that involves medication does have a possibility of side effects. We use Chemotherapy in pets to give them a better quality of life while fighting cancer, as well as after cancer treatment. Chemotherapy is an aggressive treatment for cancer, but most pets tolerate Chemotherapy much better then people do. Your pet may experience side effects a few days after the the therapy, such as poor appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, or not as active, to name a few, but is usually up and back on track within a day or two. If there are any abnormal behaviors or any abnormal conditions with your pet we ask that you call the office or bring them in to address the side effects they may be experiencing.
How is the Chemotherapy given?
Most Chemotherapy drigs are given by IV and are monitored while administrating. Your pet will be dropped off in the morning, we will administer the medications, then observe your pet throughout the day. You may pick em up in the early eveing. There are oral Chemotherapy medications that can be given to your pet as well, if your pets treatment includes these medications, you can give them to your pet at home. This depends on the treatment plan for the cancer indicated.
“Maybe it’s animalness that will make the world right again: the wisdom of elephants, the enthusiasm of canines, the grace of snakes, the mildness of anteaters. Perhaps being human needs some diluting.” ― Carol Emshwiller