Facing a cancer diagnosis in your four-legged family member can be a daunting and emotional journey. While there’s no miracle cure for dog cancer, you do have options. Fortunately, advancements in veterinary medicine offer various cancer treatments for dogs, including chemotherapy, to improve their quality of life and potentially extend the time shared with our furry friends. Understanding what to expect when your dog undergoes chemotherapy can help you navigate this process with knowledge and preparation.

What is Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy for dogs is a treatment method used to combat cancer, similar to how it is used in humans. It involves the administration of medications or drugs that are designed to target and destroy cancer cells. The goal of chemotherapy in dogs is to slow the progression of the cancer, shrink tumors, alleviate symptoms, and improve the quality of life for the animal.

Types of Chemo for Dogs

• Single or Combination Therapies: Dogs with cancer may receive a single chemotherapy drug or a combination of drugs, depending on the type of cancer and its stage.

• Different Modes of Administration: Chemotherapy drugs for dogs can be administered intravenously (IV), orally (in the form of pills or liquids), subcutaneously (injections under the skin), or even topically in some cases.

Common Canine Cancers Treated with Chemotherapy

• Lymphoma: This is one of the most common types of cancer treated with chemotherapy in dogs. It affects the lymphatic system and can occur in various parts of the body.

• Mast Cell Tumors:  Dogs with cancer often get these types of tumors that originate from cells in the skin and can also occur in other organs.

• Osteosarcoma: A type of bone cancer that often affects large breed dogs, especially in the long bones.

• Hemangiosarcoma: A cancer of the blood vessels, often affecting the spleen, liver, or heart.

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These tumors can develop in muscles, fat, nerves, or blood vessels.

Chemotherapy for Dogs: Treatment Protocols 

• Initial Phase: Typically, an intensive phase of chemotherapy is initiated to attack the cancer aggressively.

• Maintenance Phase: After the initial treatment, dogs with cancer may enter a maintenance phase with less frequent treatments to prevent the cancer from recurring.

• Frequency of Chemo therapies for Dogs: The frequency of chemotherapy sessions varies depending on the type of cancer, the drugs used, and the dog's response to treatment. It can range from weekly to monthly sessions.

Potential Side Effects of Canine Chemo 

• Nausea and Vomiting: Medications are often prescribed to manage these symptoms.

• Fatigue and Lethargy: Dogs may exhibit decreased energy levels during treatment.

• Hair Loss (Alopecia): Not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss in dogs, but it can occur in some cases.

• Suppressed Immune System: Canine chemotherapy can temporarily weaken the immune system, making dogs more susceptible to infections.

Monitoring and Follow-Up After Canine Chemotherapy 

• Regular Veterinary Visits: Throughout the treatment process, veterinarians closely monitor your dog's progress, adjusting the treatment plan as needed.

• Blood Tests: Periodic blood tests are conducted to assess your dog's overall health and response to treatment.

• Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasounds, or other imaging studies may be used to monitor tumor size and progression.

Quality of Life Considerations

• Pain Management: Ensuring that your fur baby remains comfortable is a priority. Pain medications may be prescribed as needed.

• Nutritional Support: A balanced diet is crucial to support your dog's overall health, especially during treatment.

• Emotional Support: While your furry family member undergoes chemotherapy you will play a vital role in providing love, care, and comfort throughout their process. They may not understand everything that is going on, but they will be able to feel the love come through in your care. 

Success Rates and Prognosis

• Response Varies: The response to chemotherapy varies among individual dogs and types of cancer.

• Extended Life Expectancy: In many cases, chemotherapy for dogs can significantly extend your fur baby’s life. 

• Quality of Life: The ultimate goal of canine chemotherapy is to provide a good quality of life, even if a cure is not achievable.

Financial Considerations

Chemotherapy treatment for dogs can be expensive in the U.S. Between the number of visits needed and cost of the drugs, the bills can quickly pile up. If you’re looking for affordable canine chemotherapy options, request a quote from MexiVet Express. We work with some of the best vets in Tijuana, some of which offer cancer treatments for dogs. For around $450 your dog can receive the chemotherapy they need and a ride to their vet appointment. While treating cancer in dogs can be a challenging journey, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you and your fur baby fight against cancer with affordable and quality vet care.