Veterinary Oncology in North Hollywood, CA

The advancements veterinary medicine has made in the last few decades means pets are living longer than ever. It also means that they suffer from many of the same conditions we do in our older age, including cancer. According to the AVMA, almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer. The numbers are less certain for cats but it is well known that some types of cancer, such as Lymphoma, are more common in cats than in dogs.

At Blue Cross Pet Hospital, we have extensive experience in veterinary oncology, including surgeries and chemotherapy. For years, we have worked closely with local North Hollywood veterinary oncologists, developing a close relationship with them so we can offer our patients the very best care. Call us today at (818) 980-1313.

"...you and your pet are not alone."

veterinary oncology in north hollywood, ca
man holding cat

Understanding Cancer in Our Pets

Understanding cancer also means understanding what it is not. Neoplasia is the first sign of a problem—it refers to uncontrolled, abnormal cell growth, which becomes a neoplasm or tumor. The tumor can be benign (which is slow-growing and does not spread) or malignant (aggressive, unpredictable, and can spread and invade the surrounding tissues).

Neoplasia itself is not necessarily cancer, only malignant tumors are cancerous. Still, a benign tumor can cause significant damage to your pet, such as brain tumors which put a dangerous amount of pressure on brain tissue. Pet oncology enables us to treat both benign and malignant tumors.

paw in hand

Diagnosing Cancer

At Blue Cross Pet Hospital, we understand that diagnosing cancer accurately is the first step to treating it effectively. We can perform extensive cytology and biopsies on skin and tissue to determine whether a growth is cancerous. We also utilize internal medicine technologies to diagnose your pet's condition. Digital imaging such as x-ray and ultrasound are both essential for determining a tumor’s location and size, and therefore treatment options. For further diagnostics, we have close relationships with local oncologists who can perform CT scans, MRIs, PET scans and more.

Cancer Treatments

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, we will develop a treatment plan with an oncologist. At our hospital, we can perform cancer surgeries and administer chemotherapy. Our team has years of experience administering chemotherapy, so your pet is in the best of hands. Additionally, we’ll help you keep your pet comfortable and happy during treatment with palliative care to suit their individual needs.

Cancer is a challenging disease to fight, but you and your pet are not alone. Our veterinary oncology services are advanced and comprehensive, giving your pet the best chance at recovery. Call us today at (818) 980-1313.

Common cancers we diagnose in pets include:

Cats:

  • Lymphoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma (skin cancer)
  • Fibrosarcoma
  • Mast cell tumor
  • Bone cancer

Dogs:

  • Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
  • Hemangiosarcoma (cancer of the blood vessels)
  • Mast cell tumors
  • Melanoma
  • Lymphoma