Just like humans, animals such as dogs, cats, ferrets, and rabbits can get cancer. Fortunately, however, some forms of cancer are curable. In addition, recent advancements in cancer treatment can extend the lives of many dogs and cats. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery may be used to stop the spread of cancer and remove or destroy cancer cells and tumors.
Surgical resection is an excellent tool in the ultimate positive outcome of cancer. Our Soft-tissue and orthopedic surgery suite offers very high quality facilities and our veterinarians are meticulous and thorough in their tissue handling and technique. When you enter our surgery suite it looks exactly like one of you human family members are having a procedure done.
You can help prevent some forms of cancer by having your pet spayed or neutered at an early age, but most cancers cannot be prevented. This is why early detection is one of our best weapons against this disease.
Annual examinations and regular veterinary visits can help us keep track of what is normal for your pet, as well as detect anything suspicious. However, because we typically only see your dog or cat once or twice a year, we also rely on your knowledge of your pet to catch any potential issues early.
Fine needle aspirates are an excellent way to evaluate if a concerning mass needs surgical intervention or can be left alone. Our veterinarians are proficient and thorough when examining fine needle aspirates. Typically a vaccine sized needle is used to enter into the core of the mass and retrieve some of the cells that are causing the mass. After placing the sample on a microscope slide and staining it, we can give you the much desired information you need. Contact us right away if you notice any changes in your pet’s physical appearance or behaviour (such as lumps or bumps, sores that don’t heal, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in eating habits).
Your OTHER Family Doctors
Our veterinarians at Pine Cone Pet Hospital, serving the pet and animal parents of Sartell, St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids, Waite Park, St. Joseph, Rice and St. Stephen, MN since 2001.