Dog Cancer Answers

In this in-depth expose, veterinary oncology technician specialist Jenny Fisher joins Molly Jacobson to explain the ins and outs of radiation therapy for dogs with cancer. Whether you're fearful as you consider radiation for your dog or just curious about how it works, this episode provides invaluable insights.  Topics Covered:  How radiation therapy works and the two types: diagnostic vs. therape...

When your dog is diagnosed with cancer, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Should you trust the first opinion? Could your veterinarian have made a mistake? Dr. David Vail, an experienced veterinary oncologist, shares why second opinions are crucial when dealing with a cancer diagnosis.  Dr. Vail explains how general practitioners and specialists work together, what to ask when seeking a second opini...

Nasal tumors in dogs can cause distressing nosebleeds, as listener Holly shares about her senior dog. In this episode, Molly Jacobson and veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton discuss why nose tumors bleed, what owners can do during an emergency, and when to seek veterinary care. Dr. Britton explains the fragile nature of blood vessels in nasal tumors, how bone destruction contributes to bleedi...

Dr. Brooke Britton decodes dog cancer diagnosis! The veterinary oncologist explains the critical role of staging and grading in understanding AND treating dog cancer. Discover what staging and grading mean, how they differ, and why these assessments are essential to tailoring your dog’s treatment plan. Dr. Britton dives into: What cancer staging reveals about disease progression. How staging influ...

Dr. Brooke Britton, veterinary oncologist, answers a listener's question about their dog's large mammary tumor and whether waiting a week for surgery is too long. Dr. Britton discusses the complexities of surgery for large tumors, alternative treatment options, and ways to manage your dog's comfort while waiting for surgery. Episode Highlights Listener question from Gio about a ruptured mammary tu...

Recorded just before the holiday season, this episode is packed with inspiration and tips to make every day a celebration of your dog’s life. Whether your dog is young, old, healthy, or dealing with cancer, you’ll find actionable ideas to brighten their days—and yours. Simple, easy activities to boost your dog’s emotional and physical well-being How to reduce stress and build a stronger bond with...

Dr. Narda Robinson, an osteopath (for humans), veterinarian, and integrative medicine researcher, joins us to talk about healing dogs with massage therapy. It’s not just petting! Massage for dogs has many benefits and can alleviate pain. Dr. Robinson thinks we should all be helping our dogs every day with massage. She emphasizes the difference between simple petting and therapeutic massage, the ro...

A caller wonders if treating early with oral melanoma in dogs helps with outcomes. Dr. Brooke Britton says yes, this aggressive cancer can develop rapidly, but early detection and treatment can make a significant difference. Learn about the latest treatments, including surgery and the innovative melanoma vaccine, and how they can improve outcomes for dogs with this diagnosis. 👉 This episode is pa...

Ultrasounds are a non-invasive way to diagnose and monitor various conditions in dogs. In this episode of Dog Cancer Answers, Dr. Adrienne Anderson explains what ultrasound is, how it works, what happens during an ultrasound appointment, and why it’s such a valuable diagnostic tool. Learn about when ultrasounds are recommended, how much they cost, and what to expect during the process—all in plain...

Barbara from Vermont is seeing a new veterinarian, and they want to perform surgery to remove her dog’s TCC. Is it a viable option for her 13-year-old dog who has been on NSAIDs? Dr. Britton unpacks the complexities of bladder cancer treatment, especially the risks and benefits of surgery, and explains why non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like piroxicam are often used to manage this...

Host Molly Jacobson speaks with Dr. Lauren Barrow, a veterinarian who sees cancer in her patients and a mother whose son has a brain tumor. Are vets just after your money? She has some sage insights to offer! Dr. Barrow offers heartfelt and compassionate advice for pet parents trying to make the best decisions for their dogs while dealing with financial limitations. Whether you're struggling to af...

Let’s dive into early cancer detection strategies for dogs with veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton. We discuss common cancers like anal gland cancer and lymphoma, share practical guidelines for screening, and emphasize the crucial role of pet owners and veterinarians in detecting cancer early. Looking to stay ahead of serious health issues? This is a must-watch. Topics Covered: Listener's su...

Host Molly Jacobson interviews Dr. Dani McVety, founder of Lap of Love, a nationwide veterinary hospice and in-home euthanasia service. In this long conversation, the veterinary hospice expert and the dog mom explore tough and important decisions dog lovers face in terrible, heart-wrenching moments. Dr. McVety offers compassionate guidance on what to expect during the euthanasia process. If you're...

Veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton answers a listener's question about a 10-year-old Golden Retriever diagnosed with an anal gland tumor. The dog recently underwent a CT scan and they saw a small tumor in the stomach lining and an enlarged lymph node. Is it spread? Or a new type of cancer? Dr. Britton discusses possible scenarios, the limitations of different diagnostic techniques, and consi...

Jenny Fisher, an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) specializing in oncology, shares tales of hope and inspiration, plus insight into the critical roles that vet techs play in the care and treatment of dogs with cancer. From the day-to-day responsibilities of veterinary technicians to emotional and physical demands, Jenny opens up about what it's really like to work in a veterinary...

Dr. Lauren Barrow answers a listener question from Gloria in Florida. Gloria's dog was recently diagnosed with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), and she is seeking advice on how to support her dog beyond the prescribed medication, piroxicam. Dr. Barrow shares her insights and offers general information on how to detect bladder cancer early on. Key Topics Covered: Piroxicam for TCC: Dr. Barrow exp...

Originally recorded in 2022, this episode features Dr. Lauren Trepanier from the University of Wisconsin, revealing her groundbreaking research into the link between environmental pollution and dog cancer. Key Topics: Environmental Pollutants and Cancer in Dogs: Dr. Trepanier’s research links pollutants such as ozone, benzene, trichloroethylene, and herbicides to cancer in dogs. Lymphoma Study: On...

Dr. Mary Gardner, co-founder of Lap of Love, explains the critical distinctions between geriatric, palliative, and hospice care for dogs. Key Topics: The difference between palliative care and hospice care. Recognizing when a dog has moved from senior to geriatric. How caregiver burden plays a role in a dog’s end-of-life care. Signs of aging versus illness in dogs. The importance of managing mobil...

Dr. Charlotte Hacker, a wildlife biologist, has some worrying news about the chemicals commonly found in plastics, such as BPA and phthalates. These and other harsh chemicals in plastics are known to disrupt endocrine systems in both humans and dogs. From developmental issues to cancer, Dr. Hacker outlines the risks associated with plastic exposure and gives practical advice on how to reduce your...

When cancer makes your dog’s body its home, changes occur. Sometimes those changes are deep in the body, undetectable. But others show up as lethargy, weight loss, digestive upset, and, sometimes, physical lumps and bumps you can feel. Dr. David Vail, a veterinary oncologist at the University of Wisconsin, joins us to discuss the early warning signs of dog cancer. Every time we catch cancer early,...

Today we dive deep into the world of veterinary nutrition with Dr. Lindsey Bullen, one of the few board-certified veterinary nutritionists in private practice. The right diet can make a significant difference in managing your dog’s cancer and overall health. Dr. Bullen shares her insights on home-cooked diets, the importance of diagnostics, cancer-specific dietary needs, and much more. Quotes: "Ev...

Surgery is stressful, but after it’s over … it gets worse. You have a lot of things to do at home! Knowing what to expect and how to manage the healing and recovery process makes a difference. Join host James Jacobson and Kate Basedow, a seasoned veterinary technician, for an in-depth discussion of how to help your dog heal comfortably and quickly. This is part three of a three-part series on cani...

Host James Jacobson is joined by Kate Basedow, a seasoned veterinary technician with extensive experience assisting with dog surgery. She’s got terrific insights into how you can optimize your dog’s experience on their big day. This is part two of a three-part series on canine surgery. Part 1: Dog Surgery Pre-Op Checklist for Dog Owners https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWHnMNzc5HA Key Points Covere...

Host James Jacobson is joined by Kate Basedow, a seasoned veterinary technician with extensive experience in preparing dogs for surgery. Kate shares essential tips on how to ensure the best possible outcome on your dog’s big day. Whether you're facing a routine procedure or a complex operation, Kate's insights will help you feel more confident and prepared. This is part one of a three-part series...

Veterinary oncologist and DogCancer.com contributor Dr. Megan Duffy joins James Jacobson to discuss how to get the most out of that expensive specialist consult. Whether you are planning on pursuing treatments or not, there are ways to maximize your consult. Key Points Discussed ·        Expect a Lengthy Visit: Oncology appointments can take at least an hour due to the detailed discussions about y...