Oncology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study of cancer. Veterinary specialists who treat pets with cancer are called oncologists. If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, you probably have many questions and concerns that you need addressed.

Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled and meaningless growth of cells in the body. The terms cancer, malignancy, and neoplasia are synonyms. Cancer is not one disease as it can develop from any cell type in the body. Some forms are able to spread to other parts of the body that are far from the original site. Called metastasis, this happens when cancer cells enter the bloodstream or lymph vessels and are carried to other organs.

VCA Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic is pleased to have Dr. Sunny Kao, on staff who will work with you to help you make the best treatment decisions for your pet. In addition to making the right choice of therapy, we will take into consideration your pet's comfort and lifestyle. You are considered a valuable member of your pet's treatment team and we will teach you how to administer medications at home when appropriate. Your commitment and our oncologist's dedication to providing the most up-to-date care are the combination that will keep your pet as comfortable as possible while undergoing treatment.

Why Does My Pet Need A Veterinary Oncologist?

Just as in humans, a pet with cancer typically needs the help of an oncologist to help diagnose and treat the disease. Veterinary oncologists determine the most appropriate course of treatment and coordinate the treatment program for pets with cancer. They also frequently serve as consultants to veterinarians in private practice to ensure that their patients receive the best treatment possible for their cancer. You can be assured that a veterinarian who refers you and your pet to a veterinary oncologist is one that is caring and committed to ensuring that your pet receives the highest standard of care for his or her illness.

While in some cases, your veterinarian may be able to simply consult with the veterinary oncologist about your pet's care, in other cases it is necessary to actually refer you and your pet to the veterinary oncologist for more advanced diagnostics and treatment. Board certified veterinary internists/oncologists may also have access to specialized diagnostic or treatment tools that a general practitioner veterinarian may not have.