| Cancer is becoming more common in pets in recent | | | | being diagnosed with cancer. Today dog and cat |
| years. As cases have increased, more treatment | | | | owners have options. In some cases hospice care can |
| options are available. A major source of information | | | | help with pain-management or more aggressive |
| for pet-owners is The Pet Cancer Foundation, an | | | | surgical, chemo and radiation therapies that are |
| independent, non-profit organization that offers a | | | | available. As in human cancer patients, some pets are |
| resource for learning about your pet's cancer. Through | | | | cured or go into long remissions. At the very least, the |
| the Foundation, pet-owners can receive a free | | | | pet is allowed quality of life for their remaining years. |
| consultation with a cancer specialist and get | | | | Veterinary treatment of a pet with cancer is |
| information regarding treatment options. The | | | | approached a little differently from treating a human |
| Foundation will work with your veterinarian on a | | | | with cancer. In dogs and cats, at the point that nothing |
| case-by-case basis. It goes without saying that | | | | more can be done, euthanasia is an accepted and |
| treatments will be expensive, but at least there are | | | | merciful end to suffering. It is a final act of love for a |
| now are options that were not available in past years. | | | | precious friend. Maybe there is some sense in that |
| Not so long ago, a pet diagnosed with cancer was | | | | concept? When it comes to pets, or humans, |
| sent home with his owner, to live out the last days, | | | | maximum days of life should not be more important |
| sometimes in pain, but never with hope. Pets today | | | | than maximum quality of life. |
| have a much better chance to live longer, even after | | | | |